The aim of this course is to provide an overview of Agile approaches to product development. It explains what Agile is and when and why to use it. The scope of the programme includes: The course emphasises the collaborative nature of Agile and the flexibility it offers to customers. The principal training objectives for this programme are to help participants understand: Why and when to use Agile How to use Agile The roles involved in Agile development The cultural factors to take into account How to manage Agile developments 1 Introduction (Course sponsor and trainer) Why this programme has been developed Review of participants' needs and objectives 2 Background to Agile Issues with traditional approaches to product development How Agile helps Roots of Agile Agile lifecycles Product v project 3 How Agile works The Agile Manifesto Agile principles Process control: defined v empirical Different Agile methods The Scrum framework DSDM Atern 4 Managing Agile When to use Agile Managing Agile projects Team organisation 5 Agile techniques Daily stand-ups User stories Estimating MoSCoW prioritisation 6 Course review and action planning (Course sponsor present) Are there opportunities to use Agile? What actions should be implemented to adopt Agile? Conclusion
Budgeting is more than mere vague oversight. Budgeting should deliver the corporate strategy, add shareholder value and lead to a well-run business - for the benefit of all involved in it. Effective budgeting leads to real control - effective day-to-day operational control and more. This course demonstrates what proper budgeting and operational control can do. This course will help ensure that participants: Appreciate the importance of the budgeting process Take ownership of it Use it as a daily working tool - not an annual exercise - to help run their part of the operation Improve their reporting against budget Ensure their delivery against budget 1 Objectives of budgets The budget process Stages - what is the prime aim of a budget? What is forecasting? ObjectivesPlanningImplementation 2 Budget and cost control focus Choosing objectives Links with corporate strategy Links with resource management Can the accounting systems cope? 3 Traditional budgeting and control Benefits and drawbacks The process Control and feedback Reporting - what can be expected? 4 Advanced budgeting and control Understanding the business process Taking out costs Cost awareness ZBB - as valid as ever 5 Reports Reports for action The purpose of a report Content - deliverables and feedback Culture is so important
This intensive one-day IACCM-approved programme helps participants develop the skills, knowledge and competencies required to plan for and carry out effective negotiations in a range of different environments. By the end of the programme participants will be able to: Understand the basic concepts of negotiation and how it adds value to the organisation Recognise the stages of negotiation and the skills required at each stage Make use of tried-and-tested negotiation planning tools Apply a range of negotiation tools and techniques to support the organisation in obtaining value for money, quality and fit-for-purpose outcomes Set negotiation objectives Appreciate the importance of interpersonal skills in maximising the opportunities for reaching win/win agreements 1 Welcome Introductions Aims and objectives Plan for the day 2 Why negotiate? Understanding the negotiation context Negotiating with suppliers Negotiating with stakeholders 3 Understanding the process The phases of negotiation and what to do in each phase Before During After 4 Planning Appreciating the importance of planning Different approaches Identifying the key variables Setting objectives for each of them Practical negotiation planning exercise 5 Doing The key skills required, Communication Numeracy empathy Applying these skills in a role play: practical exercise 6 Close Review of key learning points Personal action planning
This workshop is very practical in its nature and aims to give delegates an opportunity to not only learn about the key aspects of successful bid writing, but to also put them into practice. The workshop helps delegates understand what is most important to buyers and how to successfully convey they proposition to them. 1 Welcome and introductions 2 The mindset of successful bid writing The mindset needed for successful bid writing Thinking from the buyer's perspective and not your own 3 Decision making The way buyers make decisions - rational and emotional Understanding buying motives Looking at how to present ideas against those motives The idea of cognitive fluency How to pitch an idea in a way that leads to a positive decision 4 To bid or not to bid? Writing a bid is a big commitment; a clear understanding of the chances of winning is required Understanding of the implications of winning and the impact it will have on the organisation 5 Understanding your value proposition Framework to help identify unique proposition and how that fits in with the requirements of the bid 6 The tender process Understanding the process to enable a successful chance of winning the bid Different types of tender processes Evaluation of criteria and the impact on bid writing 7 Writing skills Different ways of writing and structuring bids to ensure their messages gets across well in a way that will be looked on favourably by the buyer 8 Summarise 9 Close
This course follows the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health's syllabus. A one-day programme, it is suitable for all people at all levels in the workplace and gives a basic introduction to the principles of environmental management. On successful completion of the course, participants will be able to: Understand the terms 'environment' and 'pollution' Understand the terms 'hazard' and 'risk' related to the environment Better appreciate environmental issues generally, and specifically in respect of their organisation Identify hazards to the environment from working practices Outline the procedures/controls necessary to prevent damage to the environment 1 What is the environment? - putting the environment in context Key environmental issues and how we contribute Definition of the environment 2 Working with the environment What is pollution? Sources, receptors and pathways Environmental consequences workshop - identifying the environmental consequences of our working practices Environmental risk assessment Effective control mechanisms 3 Protecting the environment - Environmental Management Systems What is an Environmental Management System (EMS)? What are the benefits of having an EMS? EMS structure and models Identifying what elements of EMS your company has and how they work Roles and responsibilities 4 Choice of module Option 1: Organisation-specific moduleThis module can be used to introduce environmental concepts that are specific to your activities and operations, and will be compiled through discussion with your organisation Option 2: Environmental best practiceIf no organisation-specific module is required, or if participants from a number of organisations attend, generic operational environmental best practices can be covered instead. Areas covered include waste management, fuel storage and use, hazardous materials, emissions to air and water and environmental incidents
Getting Started With highly experienced tutors guiding the completion of an MBA, this programme fosters personal and managerial development, encouraging students to make unique contributions. The MBA programme has earned an excellent reputation among employers in private, public and voluntary sectors, enabling graduates to pursue senior positions within organisations or even continue their academic journey with a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree. For those seeking to specialise, the Research Specialisation Certificate is an optional add-on, allowing students to choose a management area of interest, such as finance, marketing, human resources, or operations and conduct in-depth research. Successful completion of the MBA Dissertation module earns students this exclusive certificate, recognised by the University and emphasises their commitment to academic research and specialised knowledge. The programme comprises two phases; the first is the Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership, awarded by Qualifi and delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. The second phase is the MBA Top Up, awarded and delivered by the University of Central Lancashire through distance learning. This programme offers the same high-quality education as its on-campus counterparts, with access to video lectures, interactive assessments and online discussion forums. Students also benefit from comprehensive support services, including academic and technical assistance and access to online resources. School of Business and Technology London partners with Chestnut Education Group to promote this programme. About Awarding Body Founded in 1828, the University of Central Lancashire is a public university based in Preston, Lancashire, England. Today, UCLAN is one of the largest in the United Kingdom, with a student and staff community of nearly 38,000. At present, the University has academic partners in all regions of the globe, and it is on a world stage that the first-class quality of its education was first recognised. In 2010, UCLAN became the first UK modern Higher Education institution to appear in the QS World University Rankings. In 2018, the Centre for World University Rankings estimated Central Lancashire to be in the top 3.7 per cent of all global universities, highlighting the growth the University has made in offering students real-world learning experiences and reflecting the University's extensive pool of academic talent. Ranked in the top 7% of universities worldwide. Student Communities from more than 100 countries WES Recognised Qualifi is a UK Government (Ofqual.gov.uk) regulated awarding organisation and has developed a reputation for supporting relevant skills in a range of job roles and industries, including Leadership, Enterprise and Management, Hospitality and catering, Health and Social Care, Business Process Outsourcing and Public Services. Qualifi is also a signatory to BIS international commitments of quality. The following are the key facts about Qualifi. Regulated by Ofqual.gov.uk World Education Services (WES) Recognised Assessment Assignments and Project No examinations Entry Requirements Applicants should normally have a good first degree or equivalent and be working in or have recently worked within business management area. If English is not your first language, you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.5 (Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification. Progression An MBA graduate can pursue a fruitful career in many industries. MBA can open career opportunities in various sectors such as banking and financial services, investment banking, management consulting, insurance, hospitality, media, information technology (IT) and marketing. An MBA is often a pathway to promotion or a career change as you will gain a professional reputation and develop essential skills in the sector you choose to pursue. Learners must request before enrolment to interchange unit(s) other than the preselected units shown in the SBTL website because we need to make sure the availability of learning materials for the requested unit(s). SBTL will reject an application if the learning materials for the requested interchange unit(s) are unavailable. Learners are not allowed to make any request to interchange unit(s) once enrolment is complete. Structure Phase 1 - Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Programme Structure To attain 120 credits, learners must complete the six compulsory units and select at least two optional units. Mandatory Units Unit 702: Manage Team Performance to Support Strategy Unit code: Y/506/9067 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit's objective is to enable learners to delve into the evaluation and enhancement of team performance to achieve strategic goals. Additionally, learners will be introduced to various management models, concepts, and ideas that can assist in establishing objectives for departments, projects, teams, and individual performance. Unit 704: Information Management and Strategic Decision Taking Unit code: H/506/9068 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit aims to tackle the abundance and intricacy of data and information accessible to organisations and to teach how to analyse, apply, and ascertain its value in shaping strategic decisions. Unit 705: Leading a Strategic Management Project Unit code: L/506/9065 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit will engage the learner in crafting research and methodologies to bolster a strategic management project. They will need to assess options and data sources critically before presenting the outcomes of the project. Unit 706: Strategic Direction Unit code: D/506/9068 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 The purpose of this unit is to delve into the strategic aims and objectives of an organisation and to understand their importance in defining direction, as well as gauging success and progress for the organisation. Additionally, the unit will examine how various strategic options may lead the organisation to alter its course. Unit 711: Strategic Planning Unit code: Y/506/9070 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit focuses on the significance of the strategic planning process in crafting suitable strategies and creating a plan that garners support from stakeholders and other organizational leaders. Learners will also engage in a critical evaluation of the program and its subsequent success. Unit 724: Development as a Strategic Manager Unit code: J/506/9064 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit aims to foster organizational and self-awareness in learners. It lays the groundwork for a self-critical and reflective approach to personal development, which is essential when operating strategically. Additionally, it considers broader contextual factors within the organization and the environment, recognizing their role in contributing to the overall strategic success of both the individual and the organization. Optional Units Unit 703: Finance for Managers Unit code: D/506/9071 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 The purpose of this unit is to assist learners in comprehending and applying financial information and data. This unit holds significance for learners as it aids in making informed financial decisions. Unit 708: Strategic Marketing Unit code: M/506/9074 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit will explore the foundational models, techniques, and theories that form the basis of marketing and can contribute to achieving strategic objectives. It will also give learners a critical comprehension of the marketing function within intricate organizations. Unit 710: Organisational Change Strategies Unit code: K/506/9073 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 The primary objective of this unit is to equip learners with the knowledge and skills to understand, plan, and execute organizational change effectively. While prevailing wisdom in the business world often emphasizes the need for fast, large-scale, and transformative change for corporate survival, there is evidence to suggest that many successful organizations adopt a slower and more cautious approach. Moreover, change initiatives have a reported failure rate of around 70%. This underscores the complexity of managing organizational change, making it a critical skill for successful leaders and organizations. This unit will scrutinize the evolving nature of organizations and the associated challenges they encounter. It will explore the key approaches to change management and demonstrate how these align with the various types of changes organizations undergo, particularly concerning individual, group, and organizational behaviour. Unit 712: Human Resource Planning Unit code: H/506/9072 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit will cover key considerations in planning for and acquiring a workforce capable of achieving strategic objectives. It will also examine the limitations and external factors that impact an organization's HR practices. Phase 2 - MBA Top-Up Programme Structure Dissertation Module Delivery Methods The programme comprises two phases; the first is the Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership awarded by Qualifi and delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. The School of Business and Technology London offers flexible learning methods, including online and blended learning, allowing students to choose the mode of study that suits their preferences and schedules. The programme is self-paced and facilitated through an advanced Learning Management System. Students can easily interact with tutors through the SBTL Support Desk Portal System for course material discussions, guidance, assistance, and assessment feedback on assignments. School of Business and Technology London provides exceptional support and infrastructure for online and blended learning. Students benefit from dedicated tutors who guide and support them throughout their learning journey, ensuring a high level of assistance. The second phase is the MBA Top Up, awarded and delivered by the University of Central Lancashire through distance learning. The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) offers a range of distance learning options for students who require the flexibility to study remotely. These options include online courses, blended learning, and supported distance learning. UCLan's distance learning courses are designed to provide students with the same high-quality education as on-campus courses, with access to resources such as video lectures, online discussion forums, and interactive assessments. The University also provides a range of support services for distance learning students, including academic support, technical support, and access to the University's library and online resources. Resources and Support School of Business & Technology London is dedicated to offering excellent support on every step of your learning journey. School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal. Our support team liaises with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receives a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and streamline all the support processes efficiently. Quality learning materials made by industry experts is a significant competitive edge of the School of Business & Technology London. Quality learning materials comprised of structured lecture notes, study guides, practical applications which includes real-world examples, and case studies that will enable you to apply your knowledge. Learning materials are provided in one of the three formats, such as PDF, PowerPoint, or Interactive Text Content on the learning portal. How does the Online Learning work at SBTL? We at SBTL follow a unique approach which differentiates us from other institutions. Indeed, we have taken distance education to a new phase where the support level is incredibly high.Now a days, convenience, flexibility and user-friendliness outweigh demands. Today, the transition from traditional classroom-based learning to online platforms is a significant result of these specifications. In this context, a crucial role played by online learning by leveraging the opportunities for convenience and easier access. It benefits the people who want to enhance their career, life and education in parallel streams. SBTL's simplified online learning facilitates an individual to progress towards the accomplishment of higher career growth without stress and dilemmas. How will you study online? With the School of Business & Technology London, you can study wherever you are. You finish your program with the utmost flexibility. You will be provided with comprehensive tutor support online through SBTL Support Desk portal. How will I get tutor support online? School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal, through which our support team liaise with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receive a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and to streamline all the support process efficiently. Learners should expect to receive a response on queries like guidance and assistance within 1 - 2 working days. However, if the support request is for assessment feedback, learners will receive the reply with feedback as per the time frame outlined in the Assessment Feedback Policy.
Meetings are a fact of working life - both virtual and physical meetings. Recording the key points from meetings is critical to making sure that accurate information is captured, and action points are clearly identified and allocated. This virtual training session will support members of staff to develop their skills in recording the key points from meetings and discussions. This course will help participants: Describe the different levels of note taking and pick the appropriate style for the meeting Prepare to take minutes in the virtual and the physical environment Liaise and work in partnership with the meeting Chair Use a template to enable the capturing of key points Set up the room ready for the meeting Identify key points to record, versus what not to record Interrupt the meeting confidently to check key points Take neutral, accurate and concise records Produce a well-laid out set of minutes. 1 Introduction Objectives and overview Introductions and personal aims 2 An introduction to minutes Purpose and use Different levels of notetaking 3 Preparing to take minutes Identifying the purpose of the meeting Working with the Chair Tips and techniques to prepare effectively Case studies, review and discussion The physical environment: setting up for a meeting 4 Listening and recording Tips and techniques to make the process easier How to interrupt a meeting What to record; what to leave out Recording in short-form using playscript and bullet-points Listening neutrally Activity: Minuting a Meeting The tricky ones and how to overcome problems in the meeting 5 Preparing the minutes Producing a set of draft minutes Tips on grammar, punctuation and layout Stylistic variation Managing feedback from the Chair 6 Review Summary of key learning points Action planning
This very practical workshop is designed to enable participants to improve the impact, clarity and accuracy of their business documents - both internal and external.: This workshop will help participants: Identify the purpose of writing their documents - to themselves and to their readers Recognise and meet the needs of their readers Plan documents systematically and improve the layout, flow and structure Express the content more clearly, concisely and correctly Adapt the tone and style of writing to the circumstances Proof-read and edit work effectively, using formal marks and techniques Improve visual layout, format and appearance 1 Course objectives Welcome and Introductions The problems now - group discussion 2 Writing better business documents What points to highlight / exclude Starting off Introductions Conclusions Executive summaries 3 Rules and standards George Orwell's famous maxim Why write? - clarifying your aims and objectives A seven-step method for better preparation The three-stage process for writing well Grouping information for your reader 4 Proof-reading and editing The difference between proof-reading and editing Proof-reading methods and strategies Proof-reading marks and techniques Training your eye for detail Knowing what to look for 5 Effective editing Grammar and English standards Words - usage and spelling Sentences - units of thought Paragraphs - themes Punctuation - spotting and correcting common errors Say what you mean - active v passive language 6 How's your English? Grammar quizzes and punctuation test Spotting spelling errors Rephrasing jargons and clicheÌs Common error's and mistakes 7 Document layout House style Use of white space Fonts and effects 8 One-to-one workshops These are practical sessions with one-to-one consultation with colleagues and the trainer They are held at key points to consolidate the learning from different sessions 9 Course summary Summary of key points Action plans
The importance of building services to the success of an organisation has never been greater and continues to grow. Developers and occupiers are becoming more aware of the contribution that building services make to the well being of occupants and hence their perception of the quality of the working environment. Those involved with the design, construction, maintenance and operation will increasingly be required to deliver building services that demonstrable contribution to the occupier's business. Energy efficiency, carbon management and occupant satisfaction depend substantially on the way building services are designed, managed and operated. To optimise these aspects, an informed strategic approach is essential. Tried and tested techniques and processes are available that, when applied holistically, will deliver substantial benefits. This course reviews best practice in the area and inspires participants to ensure that building services perform at their optimal level. To provide a better understanding of how building services can be designed, managed and operated to: Maximise occupant comfort, satisfaction and wellbeing Add value and contribute to the success of the business of the occupier Improve health safety Reduce operating cost, energy use, carbon emissions and environmental impact Optimise cost and value Provide strategies for continuous improvement and sustainable operation 1 Building services fundamentals The function of services in commercial buildings and their importance to the core business 2 Techniques and processes for optimising cost and value Programmed operation evaluation Continuous commissioning Lifetime product management Performance-based service Energy efficiency and the scope for environmental improvement 3 Making the business case and preparing the strategy Motivating decision-makers Empowering those who have to deliver the results Managing business risk 4 Strategy implementation and monitoring results Ensuring that rich and robust feedback is available to support continuous improvement and strategy enhancementWhen to get feedbackWhyHowWhat to do with it 5 Case histories and 'air time' Sharing experience and addressing specific issues of interest to participants Course review Close
Many managers question the value of appraisal programmes and many line managers believe appraisals are unduly time-consuming and bureaucratic. Yet the appraisal is a vital starting point when it comes to managing performance effectively and it is vital that managers appreciate this. Handled well, the benefits of formal appraisals are enormous. This thoroughly practical workshop has been designed to give line managers the knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver a well-structured appraisal - even in the most challenging circumstances. This course will help participants: Appreciate the benefits of the appraisal process Assess standards of performance objectively Plan and prepare for appraisals effectively Conduct a well-structured appraisal meeting Acquire the essential skills required for effective appraisals Improve their ability to discuss difficult issues more confidently Identify training and development requirements Agree clear and measurable development objectives Complete essential paperwork Understand the need to facilitate continual informal dialogue between appraisals 1 Introduction and course objectives 2 The appraisal process The aim of the appraisal process Understanding the bigger picture - the appraisal process as part of the employee development process The benefits of the appraisal process Common pitfalls Five steps to an effective performance appraisal 3 Step 1 - Assessment Using job standards as the basis for objective assessment Assessment of previous objectives 4 Step 2 - Preparation Documentation required Data on each appraisee Planning the meeting 5 Step 3 - The meeting The skills of appraisal interviewing The structure of the appraisal interview Dealing with poor performance and difficult situations Taking notes and completing documentation 6 Step 4 - Planning ahead and objective setting Identifying action to improve performance and enhance skills Establishing relevant training needs Agreeing SMART performance objectives Formulating a personal development plan 7 Step 5 - Action after the interview Essential paperwork Follow-up and action required between appraisal interviews Continuing informal dialogue 8 Video case study Bullets 9 Conclusion Course review / discussion Preparation of action plans for building on the skills learnt Close