Microsearch Corporation, based in Saugus, MA, is a small, privately-owned technology company that specializes in low-cost document conversion, and search and retrieval services. Clients use their services to convert paper or electronic documents into secure, searchable online content, which is hosted on a web site for easy, fast access by any authenticated user.

One part of their customer base is the municipal, state, and federal governments. In mid-2009 Microsearch had the opportunity to bid on a contract with the State of Massachusetts, and the bid itself had to be Section 508 compliant. Section 508 is a federal law that addresses the needs of people with disabilities. It sets forth provisions that establish a minimum level of accessibility to eliminate barriers in information technology.

Susan Kelly, President of Microsearch, approached SOFTEACH about MS Word document training. She and her colleagues had to know how to create macros and how to create and manipulate a large number of complex tables for the bid. They were looking for training on MS Word that focused on their particular needs.

SOFTEACH trainer Darlene Collins worked with Susan to define their needs and then conducted an Advanced MS Word document class focused on Section 508 compliance for several Microsearch employees. The class was held online, with Susan and her colleagues logging in from a remote location. “We really learned a lot from Darlene in terms of creating macros,” said Susan Kelly, “She was quite helpful in teaching us how to create the accessible document we needed to win this new business.” In the end, Microsearch won that state bid because they were able to meet the 508 compliance requirements, and they will have an edge in future bids because of their new expertise.

To learn more about Microsearch Corporation and their services, visit their website.