Masterclasses? Refreshers? Introductions? It depends what you're looking for and where you want to pitch them, but here are six tried-and-tested highly focused sessions that organisations can take individually or as a series, to help develop their teams' project management capabilities one topic at a time. Objectives for each individual session are set out below, as part of the session outlines. Taken together, as a series, however, these modules are an ideal opportunity to develop your team's levels of project management capability maturity, whether that's by introducing them to the basic principles, refreshing them on best practice, or giving them the opportunity to really drill down into a specific area of challenge in your particular operating environment. Session outlines 1 Stakeholder management Session objectives This session will help participants: Understand why stakeholders matter to projects Be able to identify and engage stakeholders Be able to categorise stakeholders by their significance 1 Key principles What does 'stakeholder' mean - in theory? What does this mean in practice? Why stakeholders matter Consequences of missing stakeholders The stakeholder management process:IdentifyAssessPlanEngage 2 Identifying stakeholders Rapid listing CPIG analysis PESTLE analysis Drawing on the knowledge and experience of others Other ways to identify stakeholders 3 Assessing stakeholders Which stakeholders are significant? Stakeholder radar Power-interest maps Power-attitude maps 4 Planning The adoption curve Dealing with obstacles Who should engage which stakeholder? How should the project's organisation be structured? How will communication happen? 5 Engaging Seven principles of stakeholder engagement 2 Requirements and prioritisation Session objectives This session will help participants: Understand how clarity of requirements contributes to project success Use different techniques for prioritising requirements Agree requirements with stakeholders Manage changes to requirements 1 Understanding and managing stakeholder needs and expectations What are 'requirements'? What is 'requirements management'? Sources of requirements - and the role of stakeholders Are stakeholders sufficiently expert to specify their needs? Do they understand the detail of what they want, or do they need help to tease that out? What do stakeholders want to achieve? Working within constraints Prioritising requirements - three techniques 2 MoSCoW prioritisation 'Must have', should have', 'could have, 'won't have this time' When to use MoSCoW 3 The Kano Model Customer satisfaction - 'attractive' and 'must-be' qualities When to use Kano 4 Value-based prioritisation Understanding risk v value Using risk v value to prioritise features and schedules 5 Agreeing requirements Perfect v 'good enough' Establishing acceptance criteria Requirements traceability Agreeing project scope 6 Changing requirements Why requirements change Why change control matters Impact on projects A formal change control process Paying for change - managing change for different types of project 3 Estimating Session objectives This session will help participants: Understand the different purposes estimates satisfy Be able to use different estimating techniques Understand how to achieve different levels of accuracy 1 Key principles What's an estimate? Informed guesswork What needs to be estimated? Costs, resources, effort, duration Tolerances Precision v accuracy 2 Estimating through the lifecycle Start Plan Do 3 Early estimates Comparative ('analogous') estimating Parametric estimating Using multiple estimating techniques 4 Bottom-up estimating Bottom-up ('analytical') estimating Pros Cons 5 Three-point estimating Three-point ('PERT': Programme Evaluation and Review Technique) estimating Uncertainty and the range of estimates Calculating a weighted average Three-point with bottom-up 4 Scheduling Session objectives This session will help participants: Understand how to create a viable schedule Be able to use different forms of schedule Understand the concept of the critical path 1 Key principles The planning horizon Rolling wave planning Release planning 2 Viable scheduling Creating a viable schedule Define the scope Sequence the work Identify the risks and build in mitigations Identify the resources Estimate the effort and durations Check resource availability Refine until a workable schedule is produced 3 Critical path analysis The critical path Network diagrams Sequence logic Practical application:Network diagram with estimated durationsThe 'forward pass'The 'backward pass'Calculating total floatIdentifying the critical pathCalculating free float Gantt charts 5 Risk and issue management Session objectives This session will help participants: Understand the difference between risks and issues Be able to identify and assess risks Understand ways of mitigating risks Manage issues 1 Key principles Understanding risk Threats and opportunities The risk management processPreparation - proactive risk managementThe process - identify, assess, plan, implementStakeholder communication Roles and responsibilities Risk management strategy The risk register Risk appetite 2 Risk identification Brainstorming Interviews Assumption analysis Checklists 3 Risk assessment and prioritisation Probability, impact and proximity Triggers Qualitative risk assessment Qualitative impact assessment Qualitative probability assessment Probability / impact grid Bubble charts Risk tolerance 4 Planning countermeasures To mitigate or not to mitigate? Categories of risk response Avoid and exploit Reduce and enhance Transfer Share Accept Contingency Secondary risks 5 Issue management What is an issue? Tolerances Issues and tolerances The PRINCE2 view of issues Ownership of issues An issue management process Issue register 6 Budgeting and cost control Session objectives This session will help participants: Understand what to include in a budget - and why Choose - and use - the appropriate estimating technique Align the budget with the schedule Understand how to monitor spend and control costs Trouble-shoot effectively to get projects back within budget Session format Flexible. The session can be tailored to the participants' average level of project management maturity - a 60-minute session (delivered virtually) is an effective introduction. A 90-minute session allows for more in-depth treatment. A half-day session (face-to-face or virtual) gives time for a more challenging workshop, particularly to discuss specific cost control issues with any of the participants' current projects. 1 Where is the money coming from? Can we pay from revenue? Do we need to borrow? How long will the project take to pay back? The lifecycle of the budget Through-life costs Stakeholder involvement 2 Estimating costs Reminder: the relationship between estimates Reminder: possible estimating techniques What do we need to estimate?PeopleEquipmentMaterialsFacilities and operating costsWork package estimateEstimated project costs Estimating agile projects 3 Aligning budget and schedule Scheduling and financial periods Spreading the budget 4 Reserves and agreeing the budget Contingency reserve Management reserve Agreeing the budget 5 Cost control Planned spend over time Actual spend over time Work completed over time Evaluating different scenarios: delivery v spend 6 Trouble-shooting Why are we where we are? What has caused the project to spend at the rate it is? Why is it delivering at the rate it is? What are the root causes? What can we do about it?
Strength in Scenarios - Getting Meaningful User Feedback on Designs 'What do you think?' and 'How does this look?' are easy questions to ask when presenting users with potential design concepts, but they rarely give way to meaningful feedback. Using scenarios (workflow-based stories that provide a framework for getting user feedback) allows the user to give more honest, relevant feedback that's more closely related to the work they do on an everyday basis. It's essential to gather user feedback during all stages of an iterative design process and using scenarios to support design assessments works well within an Agile environment. In this workshop session, geared towards designers and product owners, we will explore what goes into creating meaningful scenarios and how they can be used. We will practice writing scenarios based on provided user workflows and paper prototypes. Scenarios can be a great tool in your toolbox for gathering requirements that your users will appreciate. Learning Outcomes: Write realistic scenarios that help users give meaningful feedback Discover the differences between what you see and what you hear Apply feedback and observations to refine designs
Strength in Scenarios - Getting Meaningful User Feedback on Designs 'What do you think?' and 'How does this look?' are easy questions to ask when presenting users with potential design concepts, but they rarely give way to meaningful feedback. Using scenarios (workflow-based stories that provide a framework for getting user feedback) allows the user to give more honest, relevant feedback that's more closely related to the work they do on an everyday basis. It's essential to gather user feedback during all stages of an iterative design process and using scenarios to support design assessments works well within an Agile environment. In this workshop session, geared towards designers and product owners, we will explore what goes into creating meaningful scenarios and how they can be used. We will practice writing scenarios based on provided user workflows and paper prototypes. Scenarios can be a great tool in your toolbox for gathering requirements that your users will appreciate. Learning Outcomes: Write realistic scenarios that help users give meaningful feedback Discover the differences between what you see and what you hear Apply feedback and observations to refine designs
Social Media Influencer Course Overview This course is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of the role of a social media influencer and how to leverage social media platforms to create a successful online presence. It covers the various types of content influencers can produce, strategies to build and grow an audience, and effective techniques for monetising that audience. Learners will gain valuable insights into understanding consumer behaviour, optimising social media profiles, and establishing their niche market. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to launch their own influencer career or enhance their current social media strategy. Course Description In this course, learners will delve into the essential aspects of becoming a successful social media influencer. Topics covered include understanding how influencers impact consumer buying habits, the types of content that engage audiences, and strategies for identifying and reaching target audiences. Learners will also explore the importance of authenticity in building trust with followers, creating content that adds value, and establishing a niche market to stand out. The course also covers how to optimise social media platforms for maximum engagement and success. Upon completion, participants will have developed the skills to cultivate a strong personal brand and grow a dedicated following across various social media platforms. Social Media Influencer Curriculum Module 01: Introduction Module 02: Social Media Influencer Influence on Consumer Buying Habits Module 03: Types of Content to Post on a Consistent Basis Module 04: Ways to Find Your Target Audience Module 05: Be Authentic Module 06: Create Relevant, Valuable Content Module 07: Establish Your Niche Market Module 08: Optimise Your Social Media Platform Module 09: Conclusion (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to build a personal brand on social media. Professionals aiming to develop influencer marketing strategies. Beginners with an interest in social media and digital marketing. Entrepreneurs looking to use social media to promote their business. Career Path Social Media Influencer Content Creator Social Media Manager Digital Marketing Specialist Influencer Marketing Consultant Brand Strategist
Marketing Principles Course Overview This course on Marketing Principles provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of core marketing concepts, strategies, and the integral role marketing plays within an organisation. Through a series of well-structured modules, participants will explore key areas including marketing analysis, planning, and execution. By the end of the course, learners will have a solid foundation in creating and implementing effective marketing strategies, understanding market dynamics, and evaluating marketing performance. The course equips learners with essential marketing knowledge, ideal for enhancing career opportunities in various sectors. Course Description The Marketing Principles course delves into the essential aspects of marketing, covering areas such as situational analysis, microenvironments, and the creation of effective marketing plans. Learners will explore how organisations identify opportunities, assess industry trends, and build marketing strategies that align with business goals. Key topics include analysing market conditions, developing marketing strategies, and executing plans efficiently. Throughout the course, learners will gain a deeper understanding of marketing's role within business structures, enabling them to confidently approach marketing challenges in any industry. By the course's conclusion, participants will have acquired key skills in strategic planning and analysis. Marketing Principles Curriculum Module 01: Marketing And The Firm Module 02: Situational Marketing Analysis Module 03: Microenvironments – Industry And Market Module 04: Formulating A Marketing Plan – Building Components Module 05: Executing The Marketing Plan (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to build a strong foundation in marketing. Professionals aiming to enhance their marketing knowledge and skills. Beginners with an interest in pursuing a career in marketing. Business owners and entrepreneurs looking to improve their marketing strategy. Career Path Marketing Manager – Oversee marketing campaigns and strategies. Marketing Analyst – Research market trends and consumer behaviours. Brand Manager – Develop and manage brand strategies. Sales and Marketing Executive – Focus on product promotion and customer outreach. Digital Marketing Specialist – Utilise online platforms to promote brands and services.
Entrepreneurial Mindset Training Course Overview This Entrepreneurial Mindset Training Course is designed to equip learners with the mindset and strategies essential for entrepreneurial success. It covers key concepts such as thinking like an entrepreneur, developing resilience, and fostering creativity. Through this course, participants will gain the confidence to identify opportunities, overcome challenges, and pursue business goals with clarity and determination. The course supports both aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to enhance their innovation and leadership skills. Learners will finish with a comprehensive understanding of the attitudes and behaviours that drive entrepreneurial achievement, enabling them to unlock new career possibilities or accelerate their existing ventures. Course Description This course delves into the core principles of the entrepreneurial mindset, exploring traits such as adaptability, risk-taking, and problem-solving. Participants will engage with a structured learning experience that guides them through the essential characteristics and thought processes that distinguish successful entrepreneurs. Topics include mastering entrepreneurial freedom, recognising critical mindset components, and understanding how to cultivate continuous growth. Learners will develop analytical and strategic thinking skills necessary for business innovation and personal development. The course is delivered with a focus on conceptual understanding and reflective practice, offering a thorough foundation for anyone aiming to thrive in dynamic business environments or entrepreneurial roles. Entrepreneurial Mindset Training Course Curriculum Module 01: Introduction Module 02: Entrepreneur Mindset Masterclass: Think Like An Entrepreneur Module 03: Achieve Entrepreneurial Freedom Module 04: Characteristics Of Entrepreneurial Mindset Module 05: Essential Parts Of An Entrepreneurial Mindset Module 06: Growing With An Entrepreneurial Mindset Module 07: Importance Of An Entrepreneurial Mindset Module 08: Thinking Like An Entrepreneur Module 09: Conclusion (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to develop an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving. Professionals aiming to enhance innovation and leadership skills. Beginners with an interest in entrepreneurship and business development. Anyone looking to build confidence in navigating business challenges. Career Path Entrepreneur or Start-up Founder Business Development Executive Innovation Consultant Project Manager Leadership and Strategy Roles in various industries
Information Management Course Overview This Information Management course provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices essential for effectively managing information in today’s data-driven world. It covers core topics such as strategic planning, databases, management information systems, and the auditing of information systems. The course is designed to enhance learners' understanding of how information can be efficiently organised, secured, and utilised for decision-making within organisations. Upon completion, learners will be equipped with the skills to manage data, ensure compliance with data protection laws, and address ethical and social issues surrounding information management. This course is ideal for individuals looking to advance their knowledge in information management and pursue a career in this dynamic field. Course Description The Information Management course explores critical aspects of managing data and information systems, offering in-depth insights into the processes and tools used in modern organisations. The course covers a broad range of topics, including developing information management strategies, understanding and implementing databases, and examining management information systems (MIS) for efficient decision-making. Learners will also gain knowledge of auditing information systems to ensure accuracy, integrity, and security. The ethical, legal, and social considerations of data protection and information governance are also discussed. Throughout the course, learners will engage with key theories and practices, preparing them to apply their knowledge to various industries, ensuring organisations meet legal requirements and maximise the value of their information assets. Information Management Curriculum Module 01: Introduction to Information Management Module 02: Information Management Strategy Module 03: Databases and Information Management Module 04: Management Information Systems (MIS) Module 05: Auditing Information Systems Module 06: Ethical and Social Issues and Data Protection (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to understand the principles of information management. Professionals aiming to enhance their knowledge of information governance and security. Beginners with an interest in data management and organisational systems. Anyone looking to develop skills for improving organisational efficiency and compliance. Career Path Data Analyst Information Manager Records Manager IT Compliance Officer Data Protection Officer Information Systems Auditor
Instagram Marketing Masterclass Course Overview: This Instagram Marketing Masterclass provides a comprehensive guide to mastering Instagram for business growth. Learners will explore strategies for building a strong brand presence, engaging with followers, and utilising Instagram's various features to drive traffic and sales. The course covers content creation, advertising, analytics, and influencer marketing. By the end, learners will be equipped with the knowledge to enhance their social media marketing skills, enabling them to optimise campaigns, increase visibility, and measure success effectively. Course Description: In this in-depth course, learners will delve into the essential elements of Instagram marketing, covering everything from setting up an effective profile to advanced advertising techniques. Key topics include developing a content strategy, understanding Instagram's algorithm, creating visually appealing posts, and leveraging Instagram Stories and Reels. Learners will also gain insights into performance analytics, helping them to assess campaign success and adjust strategies accordingly. By the end of the course, participants will have a thorough understanding of how to drive engagement and build a loyal following on Instagram, allowing them to make informed decisions that align with their business goals. Instagram Marketing Masterclass Curriculum: Module 01: Introduction to Instagram Marketing Module 02: Creating Engaging Content for Instagram Module 03: Understanding Instagram's Algorithm Module 04: Instagram Advertising and Promotions Module 05: Using Instagram Stories and Reels for Growth Module 06: Analytics and Measuring Instagram Performance Module 07: Building Your Brand and Growing Your Following Module 08: Collaborating with Influencers on Instagram Module 09: Advanced Instagram Marketing Strategies (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to enhance their social media marketing skills. Professionals aiming to elevate their brand presence online. Beginners with an interest in social media marketing. Small business owners or marketers looking to leverage Instagram. Digital marketing enthusiasts eager to understand Instagram's full potential. Career Path: Social Media Manager Digital Marketing Specialist Brand Manager Content Creator Influencer Marketing Strategist Online Marketing Consultant Community Manager
Affiliate Marketing Secrets: Earn Big Reviewing Products Course Overview: "Affiliate Marketing Secrets: Earn Big Reviewing Products" is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and strategies to succeed in affiliate marketing. Throughout the course, you'll learn the core principles of affiliate marketing, how to select the right products for review, and how to build a solid affiliate marketing strategy that maximises your earning potential. The course provides a step-by-step guide to help you grow your affiliate income by effectively promoting products through reviews. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how affiliate marketing works, how to optimise your efforts, and how to become a successful affiliate marketer. Course Description: This course covers a comprehensive range of topics necessary for anyone looking to dive into the world of affiliate marketing. You’ll explore the fundamentals of affiliate marketing, learn to identify profitable products to review, and discover methods for building a strong affiliate marketing platform. With an emphasis on creating valuable product reviews, you will gain skills in attracting and retaining audiences, using affiliate links effectively, and maximising your revenue streams. Each module is designed to help you understand the intricacies of affiliate marketing and review strategies, ensuring you can apply these skills to achieve long-term success in the field. By the end of the course, you’ll be well-equipped to run your affiliate marketing business and start generating significant income. Affiliate Marketing Secrets: Earn Big Reviewing Products Curriculum: Module 01: Introduction to the Course Module 02: Your Home Base Module 03: Step 2 (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to earn money through affiliate marketing. Professionals aiming to expand their marketing skill set. Beginners with an interest in digital marketing or e-commerce. Aspiring content creators or bloggers interested in monetising their platforms. Career Path: Affiliate Marketing Specialist Digital Marketing Consultant Content Creator/Influencer E-commerce Affiliate Manager Online Business Owner
Learn with Case Study - Market Research Course Overview: This course, "Learn with Case Study - Market Research," provides an in-depth understanding of the principles and techniques used in market research. It is designed to equip learners with the knowledge necessary to assess market trends, consumer behaviour, and competitive landscapes effectively. Through the use of real-world case studies, participants will gain valuable insights into the application of market research methodologies in various industries. By the end of the course, learners will be able to conduct research, analyse data, and make informed decisions that drive business strategies and growth. This course is ideal for those seeking to enhance their market research skills and apply them to professional practice. Course Description: In this course, learners will explore the core concepts of market research, including data collection, analysis techniques, and the interpretation of findings. The course integrates case studies to demonstrate how these methods are applied in real-life scenarios across different sectors. Key topics covered include survey design, focus groups, consumer behaviour analysis, and competitor research. Learners will develop the ability to evaluate and synthesise market data to inform strategic business decisions. The course encourages critical thinking, data interpretation, and strategic application, ensuring that learners can effectively utilise market research to support business objectives. By the end of the course, participants will have the skills to execute comprehensive market research projects. Learn with Case Study - Market Research Curriculum: Module 01: Introduction to Market Research Module 02: Data Collection Techniques Module 03: Case Study: Market Research in Action Module 04: Data Analysis and Interpretation Module 05: Consumer Behaviour and Market Segmentation Module 06: Reporting and Presenting Research Findings (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to improve their market research skills. Professionals aiming to enhance their strategic decision-making abilities. Beginners with an interest in understanding market dynamics. Those working in marketing, sales, or business strategy roles. Career Path: Market Research Analyst Marketing Manager Business Development Specialist Consumer Insights Analyst Data Analyst