6229 Courses in Liverpool delivered Online

Marketing Secrets for High Sales Course Overview "Marketing Secrets for High Sales" is a dynamic course designed to equip learners with advanced strategies for driving sales success. Throughout the course, participants will explore cutting-edge marketing techniques, tools, and insights that have proven effective in boosting sales across various industries. By the end of the course, learners will understand how to craft compelling marketing strategies, leverage customer psychology, and implement tactics that consistently lead to high sales conversions. The course is structured to provide learners with both the theoretical knowledge and actionable skills needed to excel in a competitive market. Course Description This course delves into a wide range of topics including sales funnel optimisation, creating persuasive marketing messages, targeting the right audience, and leveraging digital platforms for maximum impact. Learners will explore the intricacies of consumer behaviour, the role of brand positioning, and the importance of data-driven decision-making. By engaging with the course materials, participants will gain in-depth insights into the strategies that fuel high sales numbers and discover how to adapt these methods to suit their unique business goals. The course is designed to offer a structured learning experience, ensuring that all essential concepts are covered and applicable to real-world scenarios. Marketing Secrets for High Sales Curriculum Module 01: Understanding Sales Psychology Module 02: Crafting Compelling Marketing Campaigns Module 03: Leveraging Social Media for High Sales Module 04: Data-Driven Marketing Techniques Module 05: Email Marketing for Conversion Optimisation Module 06: Building Brand Loyalty to Drive Long-Term Sales Module 07: Advanced Sales Funnel Strategies (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to enhance their marketing knowledge and skills. Professionals aiming to boost their sales strategies and performance. Beginners with an interest in learning the principles of high sales. Entrepreneurs and business owners looking to optimise their marketing efforts. Career Path Marketing Manager Sales Director Digital Marketing Specialist Brand Strategist Sales Consultant

Train the Trainer Recharge: The Healthy Trainer Course Overview This course offers an essential refresh for trainers aiming to enhance their personal wellbeing alongside their professional skills. It focuses on maintaining a healthy balance between the demands of training others and self-care, ensuring trainers remain effective, energised, and confident. Learners will develop strategies to manage their own stress, address challenges confidently, and create positive learning environments. This course equips participants with the ability to engage audiences meaningfully, foster productive feedback, and maintain resilience in dynamic training settings. By the end, trainers will be better prepared to sustain their motivation and deliver impactful sessions while prioritising their own health and wellbeing. Course Description The programme delves into key areas crucial for trainers to maintain optimal performance and wellbeing. It covers techniques for self-management, including stress reduction and emotional regulation, alongside strategies to resolve common challenges encountered in training roles. Emphasis is placed on managing classroom dynamics and engaging diverse audiences effectively. Additionally, learners will explore ways to interpret and respond to feedback constructively to improve delivery and participant outcomes. This course combines reflective learning with evidence-based methods to build resilience, boost trainer confidence, and support continuous professional growth in a balanced, healthy manner. Participants will leave with renewed skills to enhance both their training impact and personal wellbeing. Train the Trainer Recharge: The Healthy Trainer Curriculum Module 01: Welcome to Healthy Trainer Module 02: Manage Yourself Module 03: Manage Your Issues Module 04: Manage Your Classroom Module 05: Manage Your Audience Module 06: Manage Your Feedback (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to enhance their trainer wellbeing and effectiveness. Professionals aiming to develop sustainable training practices. Beginners with an interest in personal development and training skills. Trainers wanting to improve audience engagement and feedback management. Career Path Corporate Trainer Learning and Development Specialist Workshop Facilitator Training Coordinator Education Consultant

Build Your Own PC: A Beginner's Guide Course Overview "Build Your Own PC: A Beginner's Guide" is designed for individuals looking to gain an understanding of computer hardware and the process of assembling a fully functional PC. The course covers the essential components involved in building a computer, from selecting the right hardware to installing software and ensuring network connectivity. Learners will also be introduced to building gaming PCs and maintaining their machines for optimal performance. Upon completion, learners will have the skills to confidently build, troubleshoot, and maintain their own PC, opening up opportunities for personal and professional growth in the IT sector. Course Description This course provides an in-depth look into the world of computer building, starting with the basics of understanding computer components and their roles in a functional system. Learners will explore key hardware, including processors, motherboards, RAM, and storage devices, while also learning the significance of peripheral devices. The course includes modules on software installation, networking, and even building a gaming PC. With a focus on providing clear, structured guidance, learners will gain a strong foundation in assembling and maintaining PCs, preparing them for various roles in the technology sector. The course is ideal for beginners and those looking to improve their technical expertise. Build Your Own PC: A Beginner's Guide Curriculum Module 01: Introduction to Computer & Building PC Module 02: Overview of Hardware and Parts Module 03: Building the Computer Module 04: Input and Output Devices Module 05: Software Installation Module 06: Computer Networking Module 07: Building a Gaming PC Module 08: Maintenance of Computers (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to understand how computers work and how to build one. Professionals aiming to enhance their IT skills for career development. Beginners with an interest in technology and computer systems. Hobbyists interested in assembling their own custom-built PCs. Career Path IT Support Technician Systems Administrator PC Hardware Specialist Network Technician Gaming PC Builder and Technician

Learn to Drive Traffic into Sales through Digital Marketing Course Overview This course on "Learn to Drive Traffic into Sales through Digital Marketing" provides learners with the essential skills to effectively use digital marketing strategies to attract, engage, and convert online traffic into sales. Covering key areas such as SEO, social media marketing, content creation, and email marketing, the course equips learners with the knowledge to optimise digital campaigns and enhance business visibility. The course is designed for individuals seeking to master digital marketing techniques to increase online sales and drive business growth. By the end of the course, learners will have a comprehensive understanding of traffic generation strategies and how to convert them into tangible business results. Course Description In this course, learners will explore various digital marketing techniques aimed at driving traffic to websites and converting that traffic into sales. Topics include SEO fundamentals, social media marketing strategies, email marketing campaigns, and creating compelling content. The course provides a structured approach to understanding how to leverage these strategies effectively, using data analytics to track and improve performance. Learners will gain the ability to create digital marketing plans, monitor campaign success, and optimise strategies to enhance online sales. The course is designed for those who want to advance their digital marketing skills and improve conversion rates, whether for personal projects or within their professional roles. Learn to Drive Traffic into Sales through Digital Marketing Curriculum Module 01: Introduction to Digital Marketing Module 02: SEO Strategies for Traffic Growth Module 03: Social Media Marketing for Engagement Module 04: Email Marketing to Convert Leads Module 05: Creating Content that Converts Module 06: Analytics and Campaign Optimisation (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to increase their online sales through digital marketing. Professionals aiming to enhance their digital marketing knowledge and career prospects. Beginners with an interest in driving business growth via online channels. Entrepreneurs wanting to optimise their digital marketing efforts. Career Path Digital Marketing Specialist SEO Manager Social Media Manager Content Marketing Strategist Email Marketing Coordinator E-commerce Manager

Certificate in HVAC Fundamentals Course Overview The "Certificate in HVAC Fundamentals" provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. This course is designed to give learners a strong foundation in the essential principles and concepts of HVAC technology. It covers the core aspects of heat flow, psychrometrics, HVAC systems, and their specific components. The practical value of this course lies in its ability to equip learners with the knowledge required to understand, evaluate, and manage HVAC systems efficiently. Upon completion, learners will have gained a well-rounded understanding of HVAC systems, enabling them to pursue further study or entry-level roles in the industry. Course Description The "Certificate in HVAC Fundamentals" explores the critical components and functions of HVAC systems in depth. Learners will cover topics such as heat flow, psychrometrics, and the various systems used for heating, cooling, and ventilation. The course also examines air conditioning systems, indoor air quality, and HVAC system selection. Through a structured learning experience, students will gain the skills needed to understand HVAC system specifications and how to maintain optimal system performance. By the end of this course, learners will be able to analyse system components, understand airflow principles, and select appropriate HVAC systems for different environments. The course is suitable for those looking to build a solid foundation for a career in the HVAC industry. Certificate in HVAC Fundamentals Curriculum Module 01: Introduction to Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) Module 02: Heat Flow Module 03: Psychrometrics Module 04: HVAC Systems Module 05: Heating Module 06: Air Conditioning Systems for HVAC Technicians Module 07: Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality Module 08: HVAC System Selection (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to understand HVAC systems. Professionals aiming to enhance their HVAC knowledge for career progression. Beginners with an interest in the HVAC industry. Anyone looking to enter the building systems or maintenance sectors. Career Path HVAC Technician Building Systems Engineer Energy Efficiency Consultant HVAC System Designer Facilities Maintenance Coordinator

Time Management Training Course Overview: Time Management Training - Online Course equips learners with essential skills to effectively manage their time, leading to greater productivity and reduced stress. This course delves into the strategies, techniques, and mindset needed to optimise time usage across personal and professional life. Through a series of engaging modules, learners will understand how to identify priorities, overcome procrastination, set actionable goals, and minimise time-wasting habits. By the end of the course, learners will gain practical tools to manage their time better, enhance focus, and improve overall efficiency. Course Description: In this course, learners will explore the significance of time management, including its impact on work performance and personal life. The course covers a comprehensive range of topics, starting with assessing current work practices and identifying key priorities. Learners will gain valuable insights on overcoming procrastination, setting clear goals, and developing effective time management plans. Advanced modules provide techniques for combating distractions and maintaining productivity, even in creative or unpredictable work environments. This course offers valuable strategies that can be applied immediately, supporting career growth and improving work-life balance. Time Management Training Curriculum: Module 01: Importance and Benefits of Time Management Module 02: Assess Your Current Work Practice Module 03: Identifying the Priorities Module 04: Say ‘No’ to Procrastination Module 05: Set Your Goals Module 06: Plan the Work Module 07: Work the Plan Module 08: Effective Time Management Techniques Module 09: Combat the Time Wasters Module 10: Time Management for Creative Work Module 11: The Art of Anticipating Module 12: Avoid Time Leaks (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to improve their productivity and work efficiency. Professionals aiming to enhance their time management skills for career advancement. Beginners with an interest in developing better organisational habits. Anyone looking to reduce stress and gain control over their daily schedule. Career Path: Project Manager Administrative Assistant Operations Manager Executive Assistant Personal Assistant Entrepreneur Team Leader

The Principles of Ethical Leadership Course Overview The Principles of Ethical Leadership course provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of ethical leadership and its vital role in fostering trust and integrity within organisations. It covers key concepts such as leadership and followership, ethical decision-making, and the influence of leadership on organisational culture. Learners will explore the significance of ethical leadership at various levels, from individual teams to entire organisations, and develop the skills necessary to lead with integrity in diverse professional contexts. This course offers practical value by equipping learners with the tools needed to create ethical environments, ensuring both personal and organisational success. Course Description This course delves into the fundamental principles that guide ethical leadership in today's dynamic work environments. Learners will explore the relationship between leadership, followership, and the ethical context within organisations. Key topics include ethical decision-making processes, leadership styles that promote ethical behaviour, and the influence of leaders on team dynamics. Learners will also gain insights into the broader implications of ethical leadership within organisations and society. By the end of the course, participants will have developed a robust understanding of ethical leadership strategies and how to apply them to enhance organisational culture and performance. The course uses a combination of theoretical frameworks, case studies, and reflective exercises to offer a rich learning experience, fostering both intellectual and professional growth. The Principles of Ethical Leadership Curriculum Module 01: The Principles of Ethical Leadership Module 02: Leadership, Followership and Ethical Context Module 03: Ethical Leadership Module 04: Ethical Team Leadership Module 05: Ethical Leadership of an Organization Module 06: Ethical Leadership in the World (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities. Professionals aiming to cultivate an ethical culture within their teams. Beginners with an interest in ethical leadership and organisational behaviour. Leaders looking to deepen their understanding of ethical decision-making in the workplace. Career Path Ethics Officer Leadership Consultant Organisational Development Specialist Corporate Social Responsibility Manager HR and People Development Manager Executive Leadership Roles

Duration 3 Days 18 CPD hours This course is intended for This course is geared for experienced Scala developers who are new to the world of machine learning and are eager to expand their skillset. Professionals such as data engineers, data scientists, and software engineers who want to harness the power of machine learning in their Scala-based projects will greatly benefit from attending. Additionally, team leads and technical managers who oversee Scala development projects and want to integrate machine learning capabilities into their workflows can gain valuable insights from this course Overview Working in a hands-on learning environment led by our expert instructor you'll: Grasp the fundamentals of machine learning and its various categories, empowering you to make informed decisions about which techniques to apply in different situations. Master the use of Scala-specific tools and libraries, such as Breeze, Saddle, and DeepLearning.scala, allowing you to efficiently process, analyze, and visualize data for machine learning projects. Develop a strong understanding of supervised and unsupervised learning algorithms, enabling you to confidently choose the right approach for your data and effectively build predictive models Gain hands-on experience with neural networks and deep learning, equipping you with the know-how to create advanced applications in areas like natural language processing and image recognition. Explore the world of generative AI and learn how to utilize GPT-Scala for creative text generation tasks, broadening your skill set and making you a more versatile developer. Conquer the realm of scalable machine learning with Scala, learning the secrets to tackling large-scale data processing and analysis challenges with ease. Sharpen your skills in model evaluation, validation, and optimization, ensuring that your machine learning models perform reliably and effectively in any situation. Machine Learning Essentials for Scala Developers is a three-day course designed to provide a solid introduction to the world of machine learning using the Scala language. Throughout the hands-on course, you?ll explore a range of machine learning algorithms and techniques, from supervised and unsupervised learning to neural networks and deep learning, all specifically crafted for Scala developers. Our expert trainer will guide you through real-world, focused hands-on labs designed to help you apply the knowledge you gain in real-world scenarios, giving you the confidence to tackle machine learning challenges in your own projects. You'll dive into innovative tools and libraries such as Breeze, Saddle, DeepLearning.scala, GPT-Scala (and Generative AI with Scala), and TensorFlow-Scala. These cutting-edge resources will enable you to build and deploy machine learning models for a wide range of projects, including data analysis, natural language processing, image recognition and more. Upon completing this course, you'll have the skills required to tackle complex projects and confidently develop intelligent applications. You?ll be able to drive business outcomes, optimize processes, and contribute to innovative projects that leverage the power of data-driven insights and predictions. Introduction to Machine Learning and Scala Learning Outcome: Understand the fundamentals of machine learning and Scala's role in this domain. What is Machine Learning? Machine Learning with Scala: Advantages and Use Cases Supervised Learning in Scala Learn the basics of supervised learning and how to apply it using Scala. Supervised Learning: Regression and Classification Linear Regression in Scala Logistic Regression in Scala Unsupervised Learning in Scala Understand unsupervised learning and how to apply it using Scala. Unsupervised Learning:Clustering and Dimensionality Reduction K-means Clustering in Scala Principal Component Analysis in Scala Neural Networks and Deep Learning in Scala Learning Outcome: Learn the basics of neural networks and deep learning with a focus on implementing them in Scala. Introduction to Neural Networks Feedforward Neural Networks in Scala Deep Learning and Convolutional Neural Networks Introduction to Generative AI and GPT in Scala Gain a basic understanding of generative AI and GPT, and how to utilize GPT-Scala for natural language tasks. Generative AI: Overview and Use Cases Introduction to GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) GPT-Scala: A Library for GPT in Scala Reinforcement Learning in Scala Understand the basics of reinforcement learning and its implementation in Scala. Introduction to Reinforcement Learning Q-learning and Value Iteration Reinforcement Learning with Scala Time Series Analysis using Scala Learn time series analysis techniques and how to apply them in Scala. Introduction to Time Series Analysis Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) Models Time Series Analysis in Scala Natural Language Processing (NLP) with Scala Gain an understanding of natural language processing techniques and their application in Scala. Introduction to NLP: Techniques and Applications Text Processing and Feature Extraction NLP Libraries and Tools for Scala Image Processing and Computer Vision with Scala Learn image processing techniques and computer vision concepts with a focus on implementing them in Scala. Introduction to Image Processing and Computer Vision Feature Extraction and Image Classification Image Processing Libraries for Scala Model Evaluation and Validation Understand the importance of model evaluation and validation, and how to apply these concepts using Scala. Model Evaluation Metrics Cross-Validation Techniques Model Selection and Tuning in Scala Scalable Machine Learning with Scala Learn how to handle large-scale machine learning problems using Scala. Challenges of Large-Scale Machine Learning Data Partitioning and Parallelization Distributed Machine Learning with Scala Machine Learning Deployment and Production Understand the process of deploying machine learning models into production using Scala. Deployment Challenges and Best Practices Model Serialization and Deserialization Monitoring and Updating Models in Production Ensemble Learning Techniques in Scala Discover ensemble learning techniques and their implementation in Scala. Introduction to Ensemble Learning Bagging and Boosting Techniques Implementing Ensemble Models in Scala Feature Engineering for Machine Learning in Scala Learn advanced feature engineering techniques to improve machine learning model performance in Scala. Importance of Feature Engineering in Machine Learning Feature Scaling and Normalization Techniques Handling Missing Data and Categorical Features Advanced Optimization Techniques for Machine Learning Understand advanced optimization techniques for machine learning models and their application in Scala. Gradient Descent and Variants Regularization Techniques (L1 and L2) Hyperparameter Tuning Strategies

Power Query and Power Pivot in Microsoft Excel:  A Quickstart Guide   Course Description   Copyright Ross Maynard 2022   Course Description Power Query and Power Pivot are two tools available in Microsoft Excel. If you are serious about data analysis, then you need to know how to use these tools. This Quickstart guide will give you the skills you need to get started with these powerful features. The Power Query tool allows you to import external data and then modify it to meet your needs, before loading it into Excel. These editing tasks are all things you can do manually in Excel, but Power Query greatly speeds things up when you have a large volume of data. The Power Pivot tool allows you to connect multiple data tables in an extended pivot table. Power Pivot also introduces new analysis and query tools to further enhance data analysis. If data analysis is your thing, then this course will help you get up to speed with these feature-filled tools. Through screen-capture video, the course provides a step-by-step guide to the foundation skills needed to use both Power Query and Power Pivot effectively. The course is designed to make your first steps into Power Query easy and to build your confidence to use them on your own. Both Power Query and Power Pivot are also available in Microsoft Power BI – the data visualisation suite. Once you have learned how to use Power Query and Power Pivot in Excel with this course, you’ll have a head start in getting to grips with Power BI Get up to speed with Power Query and Power Pivot in Microsoft Excel with this Quickstart guide.     Key Learning Points  On completion of the course, delegates will be able to: Use Power Query to load data from an external source into Microsoft Excel Clean and manipulate external data before loading it into Excel Consolidate separate files with Power Query Update Excel tables with new data in the same format Use Power Query to “unpivot” report tables to prepare the data for analysis Explain the core functionality of Power Pivot Link data tables together in the Power Pivot data model Create pivot tables that draw data from several source data tables Create performance measures and new analysis in the Power Pivot data model Use the most popular DAX query language functions in Power Pivot     Curriculum Lesson 1: Power Query Quickstart Lesson 2: Consolidating Files with Power Query Lesson 3: Unpivoting a Table Lesson 4: Power Pivot Quickstart Lesson 5: Power Pivot – Adding Data and Functionality Lesson 6: Key DAX Functions for Power Pivot Lesson 7: The DAX CALCULATE Function Lesson 8: Key Learning Points     Pre-Course Requirements There are no pre-course requirements     Additional Resources Starter spreadsheets for each lesson are provided so that learners can follow the steps presented.     Course Tutor Your tutor is Ross Maynard. Ross is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants in the UK and has 30 years’ experience as a process improvement consultant specialising in business processes and organisation development. Ross is also a professional author of online training courses. Ross lives in Scotland with his wife, daughter and Cocker Spaniel     Questions What is the main feature of Power Query? The ability to link data tables together to create pivot tables that allow data to be drawn from any and all of the source tables The ability to clean and manipulate large volumes of external data efficiently and to load the result into Microsoft Excel The removal of Microsoft Excel’s restrictions on file sizes and the number of rows of data allowed The ability to visualise data in dashboards and management reports     What is the main feature of Power Pivot? The ability to link data tables together to create pivot tables that allow data to be drawn from any and all of the source tables The ability to clean and manipulate large volumes of external data efficiently and to load the result into Microsoft Excel The removal of Microsoft Excel’s restrictions on file sizes and the number of rows of data allowed The ability to visualise data in dashboards and management reports     Which of the following actions cannot be performed within Power Query? Split text into multiple columns Trimming text and removing spaces Creating calculated columns using DAX functions Make date based calculations   Which of the following statements is true? You can use Power Query to combine files that have the same format and open them all in the same spreadsheet You can use Power Query to link data tables and create pivot tables that pull data items from all the linked tables You can use Power Query to create interactive dashboard reports You can use Power Query to export data files to Microsoft Access and other databases     Which of the following provides a compelling case to use Power Pivot in Microsoft Excel? The data visualisation and presentation features of Power Pivot are much more powerful than those in Excel Power Pivot offers the ability to clean large files of data imported from other systems quickly Existing reports and tables can be “reverse engineered” (unpivoted) to create data tables for more advanced analysis Files sizes in Power Pivot are smaller than in Excel and there is no limit on the number of rows of data that can be stored. This makes it much faster and more efficient to use Power Pivot for large data sets     Power Pivot uses analysis functions from the DAX formula language. What does “DAX” stand for? Digital Architecture Extraction Data Arbitrage Extrapolation Display Analytics Extension Data Analysis Expressions Deeply Annoying Exercise   The DAX CALCULATE function is one of the most powerful and useful functions available in Power Pivot. Which statement best describes it? It performs row by row calculations defined by the user and adds the total of them all together for a specified table It performs row by row calculations defined by the user and displays the maximum result for a specified table It performs a defined calculation and then applies filters specified by the user It filters the data in a specified table according to criteria set by the user   As well as in Power Pivot in Microsoft Excel, in what application are DAX functions also available? Microsoft PowerPoint Microsoft Forms Microsoft Teams Microsoft Power BI   How do DAX functions differ from Microsoft Excel functions? DAX functions are designed specifically for use with SQL based data sources DAX functions are completely new and provide additional functionality within Microsoft Excel DAX functions never take a cell reference or a range as reference, but instead take a column or table as reference DAX date and time functions return a date as a serial number, whereas Excel date and time functions return a datetime data type  

The aim of this programme is to help attendees create better quality technical documents in an organised and efficient manner. It will give those new to the topic an appreciation of how to approach the task professionally whilst those with more experience will be able to refresh and refine their skills. The programme comprises three complementary one-day modules: The programme presents a structured methodology for creating technical documents and provides a range of practical techniques that help delegates put principles into practice. Although not essential, it is strongly advised that delegates for modules 2 and 3 have already attended module 1, or another equivalent course. Note: the content of each module as shown here is purely indicative and can be adapted to suit your particular requirements. This course will: Explain the qualities and benefits of well written technical documents Present a structured approach for producing technical documents Review the essential skills of effective technical writing Demonstrate practical methods to help create better documents Provide tools and techniques for specification and report writing Review how technical documents should be issued and controlled Note: the content of each module as shown here is purely indicative and can be adapted to suit your particular requirements. Module 1: Essential skills for technical writers 1 Introduction to the programme Aims and objectives of the module Introductions and interests of participants 2 Creating effective technical documents What is technical writing? how does it differ from other writing? Key qualities of an effective technical document Communication essentials and the challenges faced by technical writers The lessons of experience: how the best writers write The five key steps : prepare - organise - write - edit - release (POWER) 3 Preparing to write Defining the document aims and objectives; choosing the title Understanding technical readers and their needs Getting organised; planning and managing the process Integrating technical and commercial elements The role of intellectual property rights (IPR), eg, copyright 4 Organising the content The vital role of structure in technical documents Deciding what to include and how to organise the information Categorising information: introductory, key and supporting Tools and techniques for scoping and structuring the document Creating and using document templates - pro's and con's 5 Writing the document Avoiding 'blinding them with science': the qualities of clear writing Problem words and words that confuse; building and using a glossary Using sentence structure and punctuation to best effect Understanding the impact of style, format and appearance Avoiding common causes of ambiguity; being concise and ensuring clarity Using diagrams and other graphics; avoiding potential pitfalls 6 Editing and releasing the document Why editing is difficult; developing a personal editing strategy Some useful editing tools and techniques Key requirements for document issue and control Module 2: Creating better specifications 1 Introduction Aims and objectives of the day Introductions and interests of participants The 'POWER' writing process for specifications 2 Creating better specifications The role and characteristics of an effective specification Specifications and contracts; the legal role of specifications Deciding how to specify; understanding functional and design requirements Developing the specification design; applying the principles of BS 7373 Getting organised: the key stages in compiling an effective specification 3 Preparing to write a specification Defining the scope of the specification; deciding what to include and what not Scoping techniques: scope maps, check lists, structured brainstorming The why/what/how pyramid; establishing and understanding requirements Clarifying priorities; separating needs and desires: the MoSCoW method Useful quantitative techniques: cost benefit analysis, QFD, Pareto analysis Dealing with requirements that are difficult to quantify 4 Organising the content The role of structure in specifications Typical contents and layout for a specification What goes where: introductory, key and supporting sections Creating and using model forms: the sections and sub sections Detailed contents of each sub-section Exercise: applying the tools and techniques 5 Writing the specification Identifying and understanding the specification reader Key words: will, shall, must; building and using a glossary Writing performance targets that are clear and unambiguous Choosing and using graphics Exercise: writing a specification 6 Editing and releasing the document Key editing issues for specifications Issue and control of specifications Module 3: Writing better reports 1 Introduction Aims and objectives of the day Introductions and interests of participants The 'POWER' technical writing process for technical reports 2 Creating better reports What is a technical report? types and formats of report The role and characteristics of an effective technical report Understanding technical report readers and their needs The commercial role and impact of technical reports Getting organised: the key stages in compiling a technical report 3 Preparing to write reports Agreeing the terms of reference; defining aims and objectives Being clear about constraints; defining what is not to be included Legal aspects and intellectual property rights (IPR) for reports Preparing the ground; gathering information and reference documents Keeping track of information: note making, cataloguing and cross referencing Tools and techniques for developing a valid and convincing argument 4 Organising the content The role of structure reviewed; some typical report structures Who needs what: identifying the varied needs of the readership What goes where: introductory, key and supporting sections Creating and using model forms: the sections and sub sections Detailed contents of each sub-section Exercise: applying the tools and techniques 5 Writing the report Planning the storyline: the report as a journey in understanding Recognising assumptions about the reader; what they do and don't know Converting complex concepts into understandable statements Presenting technical data and its analysis; the role of graphics Presenting the case simply whilst maintaining technical integrity Exercise: writing a technical report 6 Editing and releasing the report Key editing issues for technical reports Issue and control of technical reports