Newton, Mass.—The Power Transmission Distributors Assn. continues to promote Power Transmission Interactive, a computer-based training program for member companies. The modular program, introduced in January, is ideal for training sales, management and warehouse personnel about PT products, the association said.

This "multimedia primer for the PT/MC industry" is designed to train new employees, evaluate current and prospective sales staff members, and provide value-added training for customers. Fourteen modules cover all the product categories of PT, and include text, video and quizzes as well as tips, criteria and standards. The association found that the program is reducing training expenses for member companies.

"For our business, we figure one year for an individual to get their balance and three years to be a strong contributor," Kevin McCloskey, vice president of Dodge-Newark Supply Co. of Fairfield, N.J., told the association. "With Power Transmission Interactive, we'll have people working with customers on the telephone or at the counter with more confidence in about one-third the time."

Modules cover 13 product categories. Employees successfully finishing a module should be able to describe the uses and applications of the product, explain features, and identify the lubrication needs of the products.

PTDA recommends the program be used to evaluate current employees, screen prospects and evaluate candidates for promotion. The program is also ideal for value-added customer training opportunities.