Abstract Petroleum companies, recognizing the need for computer use, have invested millions of dollars in compíuter hardware, software, and training. While large productivity increases have been achieved through initial training (Phase One), even larger gains can be accomplished through the computer skill-building process called optimized training (Phase Two). Traditional sources provide excellent Phase One training, but lack the resources and format capabilities to provide complete Phase Two training. Computer user groups (CUG's) can provide an efficient, cost-effective way to supply Phase Two training Presently, however, CUG's are not widely used for this purpose. For this to change, CUG members and their companies must cooperate to develop programs that provide this training. Increased productivity can be realized by working together.