67 Courses in Cardiff delivered Live Online

The aim of this course is to provide an overview of the principles and practice for leading and managing a portfolio of smaller projects in a multi-project / multi-task environment. It presents a range of practical methods and techniques relevant to the smaller project scenario, using exercises and case studies to show how these can be applied. The scope of the programme includes: The course also emphasises the importance of the leadership and team-working skills needed by project managers and team members in carrying out their roles. The principal training objectives for this programme are to: Explain and demonstrate the key principles of successful project management Demonstrate a range of useful project management tools and techniques Define the role, and help participants understand the skills required by, the project leader Provide a structured framework to help participants manage multiple projects Identify opportunities to improve project management within the organisation DAY ONE 1 Introduction (Course sponsor) Why this programme has been developed Review of participants' needs and objectives 2 Managing smaller projects Projects and project management Lessons from past projects; the essential requirements for success Differences between projects; characteristic project life cycles Key issues and challenges of smaller projects The multi-project world; project portfolio management 3 Project exercise Syndicate teams plan and manage a small project Review of the project exercise: What are the keys to successful management of small projects? 4 Setting up the project Getting organised Managing the definition process Identifying and managing project stakeholders Working with the customer to define the scope and agree deliverables 5 Case study 1 Defining the project scope and deliverables Syndicate teams define the scope and deliverables for a typical project 6 Project planning The importance and cost benefit of effective planning Planning the plan; deciding how detailed a plan to create Packaging the work and estimating timescales and costs Developing project / resource schedules; setting milestones for control v Identifying and managing critical path activities 7 Case study 2 Creating the project plan Syndicate teams develop and analyse the project plan DAY TWO 8 Managing project risks Identifying risks to the project outcome, timescale and cost Evaluating risks and adopting an appropriate risk strategy Defining risk ownership; keeping a simple risk log Keeping risk management up to date; staying pro-active Integrating planning and risk management 9 Project control Managing change, minimising scope creep Selecting the data needed to provide early warning of problems Monitoring performance easily with 'S' curves and slip charts Using trend forecasting to assess true project status Running project review meetings 10 Managing a multi-project portfolio Understanding the world of multiple projects Establishing ownership of project / programme management Classifying projects and creating the 'master schedule' Defining and applying project lifecycle management Resource management: essential pre-requisites and mechanisms Project prioritisation criteria and techniques; pain / gain analysis 11 Managing the multi-project team Characteristics of small project teams / part-time team membership Clarifying line and project management responsibilities Implementing effective manpower planning Establishing professional working practices in the team Developing project management competences in the team Establishing team roles and integrating team members 12 Course review and transfer planning (Course sponsor present) Identify actions to be implemented individually Identify corporate opportunities for improving project management Sponsor-led review and discussion of proposals Conclusion

Many organisations find that project teams struggle to create and maintain effective plans. Estimates are often overly optimistic and risks go unmanaged until the inevitable happens. Resource managers also find it hard to forecast the likely loading on their departments and requests for support are not provided in a consistent format. This programme has been developed to address these needs in a very practical, hands-on format. Case study work can be based on simulations or on the organisation's current projects for maximum benefit to participants. The aim of this training is to develop and enhance participants' planning and risk management skills in order to maximise the success of project work undertaken by the organisation. The principal training objectives for this programme are to: Provide a structured, integrated approach to planning and risk management Demonstrate practical tools and techniques for each stage of planning Show how to organise and involve relevant people in the planning process Explain how to use the plan for forecasting and pro-active project control Identify ways to improve planning, both individually and corporately The course will emphasise the importance of participative planning techniques that improve the quality of plans whilst reducing overall time and cost of planning. The course will encourage discussion of internal procedures and practices and may be customised to include them if required. DAY ONE 1 Introduction (Course sponsor) Why this programme has been developed Review of participants' needs and objectives 2 Projects and planning Why plan? The benefits of good planning / penalties of poor planning Planning in the project lifecycle; the need for a 'living' plan The interaction between target setting and the planning process Team exercise: planning the project 3 Planning the plan Defining the application and structure of the plan Impact of planning decisions during the project lifecycle Using available time to create an effective plan 4 Defining deliverables Assessing the context; reviewing the goals and stakeholders Developing the scope and defining deliverables; scope mapping Understanding customer priorities; delivering value for money Case study: defining the project deliverables 5 Creating the work breakdown Building the work breakdown structure Detailing the tasks and sub-tasks; structured brainstorming Defining task ownership; the task responsibility matrix 6 Creating and using a logical network Developing the logical network; task boarding Determining the critical path and calculating float Accelerating the plan; concurrent programming and risk Individual and group exercises DAY TWO 7 Developing resource schedules Deriving the Gantt chart from the network Developing the detailed resource schedules Calculating the expenditure profile ('S' curve) 8 Estimating task durations and costs Understanding estimates: effort, availability and duration Estimating tools and techniques Application of estimating techniques during the project lifecycle 9 Case study Developing the project plan Refining the project plan Team presentations and discussion 10 Managing risks and refining the plan Awareness of contractual issues associated with risk Identifying and evaluating risks; deciding ownership Managing risks: determining levels of provision and contingency Controlling risks: maintaining an up-to date risk register 11 Planning for pro-active control The earned value analysis (EVA) concept and its predictive value Deriving the measures needed for cost and delivery performance Practical issues associated with implementing EVA 12 Using and maintaining the plan Tracking progress and updating the plan Publishing and controlling the plan 13 Course review and transfer planning (Course sponsor present) Identify ways of implementing the techniques learnt Sponsor-led review and discussion of proposals Conclusion

An insightful, enjoyable and experiential programme to help you analyse data and information and make a balanced decision based upon sound commercial reasoning. It will enable you to identify options, make decisions and take actions based on a thorough analysis combined with instinct and intuition to make a positive effect on profitability. This programme will help you: Identify ways to analyse data and sort relevant from irrelevant information Develop analytical and numerate thinking, and consider the financial implications of a decision Make decisions based on sound commercial reasoning - a mix of intuition and analysis Select from a range of tools to analyse a situation and apply these effectively Understand how costs and profits are calculated Use tried-and-tested techniques to manage and control your budgets Appreciate the fundamentals of financial analysis Focus on the bottom line Identify the basics of capital investment appraisal for your business Evaluate results and seek opportunities for improvement to your business 1 The commercial environment What do shareholders and investors want? What do managers want? Profit v non-profit organisations Investor expectations 2 Financial and non-financial information Risk and reward considerations Drivers of commercial decisions 3 Running a business A practical exercise to bring financial statements to life Different stakeholder interests in a business The impact and consequences of decisions on financial statements 4 Where do I make a difference to the organisation? How can I contribute to an improved business performance? Key performance indicators - measuring the right things A 'balanced scorecard' approach - it's not all about money! 5 A 'balanced scorecard' approach Analysing and reviewing my contribution to the business direction What is the current focus of my commercial decisions? Developing the business in the right way - getting the balance right! Where should/could it be in the future? Do my decisions support the overall vision and strategy? 6 Making commercial decisions Left-brain and right-brain thinking Convergent and divergent thinking Analysis and instinct Interactive case study exercise - emotional and rational decisions Reflection - what is my style of making decisions 7 Let's consider the customer! Identifying target markets Differentiating propositions and products Customer service considerations Marketing considerations and initiatives Pricing strategies and considerations 8 Strategic analysis The external environment The internal environment LEPEST analysis SWOT analysis Forecasting Group activity - analysing markets and the competition How do these improve your decisions? 9 Comparing performance Analysing key financial ratios Ways to compare performance and results Break-even analysis 10 Profit and loss accounts and budgeting Managing income and expenditure The budgeting process How does this link to the profit and loss account? Managing and controlling a cost centre/budget The role of the finance department Different ways of budgeting Incremental budgeting Zero-based budgeting 11 Understanding the balance sheet Purpose of balance sheets Understanding and navigating the content What does a balance sheet tell you? How do you affect your balance sheet? Links to the profit and loss account A practical team exercise that brings financial statements to life 12 Business decisions exercise How does this improve your decisions? A practical exercise to apply new knowledge and bring commercial thinking to to life The impact and consequences of decisions on financial statements 13 Working capital Why is this important? The importance of keeping cash flowing Business decisions that affect cash Calculating profit 14 Capital investment appraisal Capex v Opex Payback Return on investment The future value of money The concept of hurdle rate 15 Lessons learned and action planning So what? Recap and consolidation of learning The decisions that I need to consider Actions to achieve my plan

The Fintech Frontier: Why FDs Need to Know About Fintech,” the podcast where we delve into the world of financial technology There are numerous areas where fintech can make a significant impact. For example, payment processing and reconciliation can be streamlined through digital payment solutions and automated tools. Data analytics and artificial intelligence can enhance financial forecasting, risk management, and fraud detection. Blockchain technology can revolutionize supply chain finance and streamline processes involving multiple parties. By understanding the capabilities of these fintech solutions, FDs can identify areas for improvement and select the right technologies to optimise their financial operations. Additionally, fintech can greatly enhance financial reporting and analysis. Advanced data analytics tools can extract meaningful insights from vast amounts of financial data, enabling FDs to make data-driven decisions and identify trends and patterns. Automation of repetitive tasks, such as data entry and reconciliation, reduces the risk of errors and frees up valuable time for FDs to focus on strategic initiatives. The adoption of cloud-based financial management systems also provides flexibility, scalability, and real-time access to financial data, empowering FDs to make informed decisions on the go. With the rapid pace of fintech advancements, how can FDs stay up to date and navigate the evolving fintech landscape? Continuous learning and engagement with the fintech community are key. Attend industry conferences, participate in webinars and workshops, and engage with fintech startups and established players. Networking with professionals in the field, joining fintech-focused associations, and following relevant publications and blogs can help FDs stay abreast of the latest fintech developments. Embracing a mindset of curiosity and adaptability is crucial in navigating the ever-changing fintech landscape. I would also encourage FDs to foster partnerships and collaborations with fintech companies. Engage in conversations with fintech providers to understand their solutions and explore potential synergies. By forging strategic partnerships, FDs can gain access to cutting-edge technologies and co-create innovative solutions tailored to their organisation’s unique needs. As we conclude, do you have any final thoughts or advice for our FD audience regarding fintech? Embrace fintech as an opportunity, not a threat. Seek to understand its potential and how it can align with your organisation’s goals and strategies. Be open to experimentation and pilot projects to test the viability of fintech solutions. Remember that fintech is a tool to enhance and optimize financial processes, and as FDs, we have a crucial role in driving its effective implementation. https://www.fdcapital.co.uk/podcast/the-fintech-frontier-why-fds-need-to-know-about-fintech/ Tags Online Events Things To Do Online Online Conferences Online Business Conferences #event #fintech #knowledge #fds #frontier

Duration 3 Days 18 CPD hours This course is intended for This course is designed for project managers, Scrum masters, business analysts, and team leaders looking to effectively manage their development projects using Team Foundation Server 2017. Overview The course also demonstrates how TFS facilitates the use of storyboards to prototype experiences, request stakeholder feedback, foster team collaboration, and generate reports. The final two modules of the course provide an overview of how testers and developers can work effectively using appropriate tools in the Visual Studio family. In this course, attendees will plan a new software development project and go through the steps to initiate the project using Visual Studio 2017. This includes recording requirements, creating a product backlog, and estimating effort for backlog items. Introducing the Microsoft Visual Studio 2017 Family What?s new in Visual Studio 2017 Overview of the Visual Studio 2017 family Overview of product features Project workflow across the Visual Studio 2017 suite of products Initiating a New Project Organizing projects in TFS Understanding process templates Creating a new team project Setting team project properties Switching between team projects Work Item Primer Overview of work items Traceability between work items Searching and creating custom queries Work item charting and pinning charts Work item tagging Configuring project notifications Creating our Product Backlog Examining requirement types Creating backlog items Creating requirement hierarchies using features The importance of acceptance criteria Agile Estimation Introduction to estimation Using story points Planning Poker and other popular estimation techniques Adding your estimates to TFS work items Working from the Product Backlog Introducing the Kanban board Entering and editing details on the Kanban board Customizing columns, including using split columns and limiting WIP Recording our Definition of Done (DoD) Understanding the Cumulative Flow Diagram Working in Sprints Specifying your sprint schedule and your team capacity Selecting items for the sprint backlog using forecasting Decomposing requirements into tasks Using burndown charts to track progress Monitoring work using the task board Working with unparented work items Retrospectives The importance of retrospectives Conducting an efficient sprint retrospective What you should avoid in your retrospective Working with TFS Teams Configuring teams in our team project Managing work from a master backlog Allocating work to our teams Configuring iterations for TFS teams Enhancing Requirements Using Storyboards Overview of storyboarding capabilities Creating a storyboard to illustrate a requirement Linking a storyboard to a work item Getting Stakeholder Feedback Introducing the Microsoft Feedback Client Using the Microsoft Feedback Client to provide rich feedback to the team Adding continuous feedback into your workflow Fostering Team Collaboration An overview of the various clients The use of email in sharing information Choosing the appropriate client tool Creating and Customizing Reports Overview of reporting architecture Reviewing the out of the box reports Adding new reports Creating ad hoc reports using Excel Overview of Agile Testing The role of the tester in a sprint planning meeting A lap around web-based test management Creating a test plan Creating manual test cases from requirements Overview of Agile Development Using My Work to select tasks from the sprint backlog Understanding the value of linking changesets to work items The importance of unit testing Creating a continuous integration build Additional course details: Nexus Humans Managing Agile Projects Using TFS 2017 training program is a workshop that presents an invigorating mix of sessions, lessons, and masterclasses meticulously crafted to propel your learning expedition forward. This immersive bootcamp-style experience boasts interactive lectures, hands-on labs, and collaborative hackathons, all strategically designed to fortify fundamental concepts. Guided by seasoned coaches, each session offers priceless insights and practical skills crucial for honing your expertise. Whether you're stepping into the realm of professional skills or a seasoned professional, this comprehensive course ensures you're equipped with the knowledge and prowess necessary for success. While we feel this is the best course for the Managing Agile Projects Using TFS 2017 course and one of our Top 10 we encourage you to read the course outline to make sure it is the right content for you. Additionally, private sessions, closed classes or dedicated events are available both live online and at our training centres in Dublin and London, as well as at your offices anywhere in the UK, Ireland or across EMEA.

Managing teams and projects in line with a private, public or voluntary organisation's operational or departmental strategy.

Business Management Course Overview This Business Management course provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of key management concepts and practices. Covering essential topics such as operations, business analysis, strategic planning, and risk management, the course equips learners with the necessary tools to handle various aspects of business management effectively. Through a blend of theoretical insights and applied learning, learners will develop the confidence to manage business operations, drive strategic growth, and navigate organisational challenges. The course is designed to provide value to individuals seeking to advance their management skills and progress in their careers. Course Description This course delves deeply into the core aspects of business management, providing a structured approach to understanding business operations, leadership, and decision-making. Learners will explore modules on business analysis, strategic management, and project development, as well as gain valuable skills in managing risk, performance, and human resources. The course covers critical areas including planning, forecasting, communication, and conflict management. By the end of the course, learners will have a broad understanding of how businesses operate and will be able to apply their learning to various management scenarios. Designed for those looking to enhance their management skills, the course ensures that learners gain a solid foundation in business management principles. Business Management Curriculum Module 01: Introduction to Business Management Module 02: Operations Management Module 03: Introduction to Business Analysis Module 04: Strategic Analysis and Product Scope Module 05: Project Management Module 06: Business Development and Succession Planning Module 07: Business Process Management Module 08: Planning & Forecasting Operations Module 09: Performance Management Module 10: Management of Cash and Credit Module 11: Managing Risk and Recovery Module 12: Quality Management Module 13: Communication Skills Module 14: Business Environment Module 15: Organisational Skills Module 16: Negotiation Techniques Module 17: Human Resource Management Module 18: Motivation and Counselling Module 19: Customer Service Module 20: Time Management Module 21: Conflict Management (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to build a career in business management. Professionals aiming to enhance their management and leadership skills. Beginners with an interest in business operations and management. Those looking to progress in roles related to business analysis, human resources, or strategic planning. Career Path Business Manager Operations Manager Project Manager HR Manager Strategic Planner Financial Analyst Customer Service Manager Risk Manager Organisational Development Specialist Performance Manager

The course helps participants understand the role of demand and inventory planning in the wider context of supply chain management. It aims to demonstrate how to improve the alignment between supply and demand to maintain good levels of customer service and on-shelf availability whilst eliminating excess stock and reducing inventory investment. PARTICIPANTS WILL LEARN HOW TO: • Understand the role of demand management and its benefits • Identify the key demand characteristics and patterns; learn how to use them to improve forecast accuracy • Develop an understanding of key qualitative and quantitative forecasting methods • Learn how to conduct fundamental inventory analyses with a view to achieving the appropriate trade-off between stock and service level COURSE TOPICS INCLUDE: The role of Demand Management • The end-to-end view of Supply Chain Management • Demand Characteristics and the Product Life Cycle • Demand patterns • Push and pull systems Background to forecasting • The forecasting Process • Time-series methods of forecasting • Calculating forecast errors Inventory Analysis • Categorisation of stock • ABC Analysis • Economic order quantity and minimum order quantity • Safety stock and stock cover Inventory Management • Materials requirements planning (MRP) • Stock replenishment systems • Practical inventory management • The cost of managing stock

Business Development Course Overview This Business Development course provides a comprehensive foundation in key areas essential for driving organisational growth and operational excellence. Learners will explore critical topics such as succession planning, process and supply chain management, strategic analysis, and effective communication. The course equips participants with the skills needed to manage projects, lead teams, and optimise retail pricing and procurement strategies. Through a focus on developing negotiation, marketing, and conflict management skills, learners will gain the confidence to represent their organisation effectively and make informed decisions. By the end of this course, participants will be prepared to contribute strategically to business growth, operational planning, and risk management, enhancing their professional capabilities and career prospects. Course Description This detailed course covers a wide spectrum of business development areas designed to enhance learners’ understanding of how to grow and sustain a successful organisation. Topics include planning and forecasting operations, supply chain oversight, quality management, and project coordination. Participants will delve into strategic product scope, analysis, and multi-channel selling techniques, alongside essential soft skills such as negotiation, communication, and business etiquette. The learning experience emphasises the development of management competencies, talent and time management, and approaches to conflict resolution. Learners will also engage with modules on marketing fundamentals and risk management, ensuring a well-rounded grasp of business dynamics. This course is ideal for those wishing to elevate their strategic thinking and leadership skills within diverse professional environments. Business Development Curriculum Module 01: Business Development and Succession Planning Module 02: Process Management Module 03: Supply Chain Management Module 04: Planning & Forecasting Operations Module 05: Procurement & Purchasing Management Module 06: Project Management Module 07: Retail Pricing Module 08: Business Analysis Planning and Monitoring Module 09: Strategic Analysis and Product Scope Module 10: Quality Management Module 11: Management Skills for Leading Your Team Module 12: Selling in Multiple Channels Module 13: Representing Your Boss and Company Module 14: Preparing for Brainstorming Module 15: Generating Solutions (I) Module 16: Generating Solutions (II) Module 17: Analyzing Solutions Module 18: Selecting a Solution Module 19: Negotiation Techniques Module 20: Communication Skills Module 21: Skills of an Effective Administrator Module 22: What is Marketing? Module 23: Common Marketing Types (I) Module 24: Common Marketing Types (II) Module 25: Conflict Management Module 26: Talent Management Module 27: Time Management Module 28: Managing Risk and Recovery Module 29: Business Etiquette (See full curriculum) Who Is This Course For? Individuals seeking to enhance their business growth and development skills. Professionals aiming to progress into leadership or management roles. Beginners with an interest in business operations and strategic planning. Team leaders and administrators looking to improve communication and negotiation skills. Career Path Business Development Manager Project Coordinator Supply Chain Analyst Procurement Officer Marketing Executive Operations Manager Sales Manager Team Leader or Supervisor