73 Google courses in Warlingham

“Light makes photography. Embrace light. Admire it. Love it. But above all, know light. Know it for all you are worth, and you will know the key to photography.” – George Eastman" - Photography For Parents - Shooting With Flash Next course starts on Monday 12th Feb 2024 Scared of Flash? Never got good results from it? Not sure how it works with your camera? Thinking it’s bound to be complicated and just for studio work? This is the course for you! We show you how to work your flash and your camera – on and off camera! - to get great, natural looking results. In this course you'll discover how to use flash not just to supplement light in dim spaces, but to use it creatively, to help you create images you wouldn't be able to capture with just natural light.  KEY COURSE INFO: Course type: Instructor-led Course duration: 4 weeks Course format: Online course with interactive live webinar classes, feedback on your learning and support group WHAT YOU LEARN: You will learn how to make your flash work with your camera and how to control it so that it gives you beautiful, natural looking light You will learn to work with the flash off camera - giving you the freedom to position your light wherever it will most suit your subject rather than relying on what you have with natural or indoor light You will learn to play with flash to capture a variety of creative outcomes and apply it to lots of shooting situations - from learning to fake pretty window light to freezing motion with Flash understanding flash equipment learning to shoot with on-camera flash earning to shoot with off-camera flash learning to bounce the light for natural looking results using flash as a sole or supplementary light source freezing movement with flash where the shutter speed wont allow it THIS IS THE COURSE FOR YOU IF : You find yourself struggling with light especially in the darker autumn / winter months, and there never seems to be enough ISO or aperture to get you what you want You can already use your camera in manual and want to add mastery of detachable flash to your skillset - so you can never worry about insufficient or poor light wherever you are, or whatever unknown space you go into You want to be able to make flash images look natural rather than sporting that famous 'deer in the headlights look. A good flash image never 'looks' like a flash image You want to learn how to capture creative images using a flash - such as freezing motion, creating dramatic shadows, or adding a splash of light to specific areas of the frame. You want to add this versatile skill to your toolbox so you can adapt it to different shooting scenarios. ESPECIALLY if you're considering taking up photography professionally or semi professionally, this is an immensely useful skill to have. Next Shooting with Flash course starts on 12 Feb 2024  4 core course modules Support Facebook group Weekly live webinar Weekly practice assignment Feedback on your images Why shoot with flash in the first place?  “Don’t use Flash – it will wash out your child”“Flash will make your photos look horrible”‘You can’t control flash – no control over what your photos will look like” You may have heard those statements, maybe even uttered them yourself. And to a degree – they can be true – but only because, if you don’t know how to control and work any tool, it’s likely to give you terrible outcomes – remember how much poorer your photos were when you first started with your camera on full auto? Here is how I see Flash, and what this course is about: Flash lets me bring light where there would normally be not enough light available to take a well exposed photo – and let me tell you – in glorious British weather, that’s more often that I would like! Flash lets me shape the light to suit my needs – I can make it moody or bright, I can even make it look like natural light ( yes really) Flash lets me neutralise ugly light and make it look good ( anybody else cursed with ugly spotlight lights in their home? no? just me? ) Flash lets me be in control, especially in unknown venues and locations, spaces where I won’t get a chance at that second shot. Flash helps me fill in shadows when shooting in very bright light – the goal is not to stop using natural light, but to help create a balanced image where natual light alone can't cut it COURSE PREREQUISITES YOUR SKILLS: We recommend that you are comfortable in shooting in full manual mode. It's possible to use flash in priority modes of course, but you don't have full control of its strength and level. YOUR EQUIPMENT: You will need to have a detachable flash for your camera make. This could be the same brand as your camera or a compatible third party flash manufacturer.  You will also need a way of triggering your flash OFF camera - in some cases, you may be able to do this directly from camera or via an additional remote trigger / controller. Click here to see our Flash buying guide below Shooting with FLASH Book your space now: COURSE STARTS : 12th Feb 2024 ( 4 weeks)COURSE COST : £179 ( payment plans available )What’s included: 4 weekly modules with step by step tutorials weekly live class online class ( also recorded) - on Tuesday evenings feedback and advice on your photos private support group PDF workbook Join our next group to learn how to never have to deal with insufficient light and discover a whole new area of photography! INSIDE THE MODULES - aka WHAT DO YOU LEARN? Module 1: Getting Started with Flash In this module we introduce you to the principles of making your flash work with your camera. We show you how the two work together in layering exposures, how you can control both the flash and natural light side and how to achieve predictable outcomes from your flash. This is the biggest learning curve because the way you work your camera with flash is very different to how you do this with just natural light and understanding the control side of things will let you get creative afterwards.  Major Takeaways: At the end of the module you will have gained an understanding of how to work your flash ON your camera. With that, you will have learned how to balance your key light and your fill light, how to combine flash exposure with a natural light exposure, how to supplement or even replace light with flash light. You will also make first steps into bouncing the light to give it a more natural appearance.  Module 2: Taking your flash OFF camera  In this module we teach you how to make your flash work when detached from your camera. We look at different techniques and methods or shooting off camera as well as any additional equipment you may need for this. We teach you how to use that off camera flash for a number of practical and creative examples Major Takeaways: You will be able to use the flash off camera - whatever your preferred off camera methos. We will explore using off camera flash as the key light - creating low key and high key images, as fill light and as a supplementary light to provide additional dimension to the images.  Module 3: Making flash look natural  In this module we learn to recognise how you can adjust the very quality of your flash to create natural looking images. We learn how to bend - or bounce the light - on and off camera, to create the kind of images that noone would ever suspect of being taken with flash. We also introduce you to a number of light modifiers and show you what you can expect from them as well as what might work in the way you take the photos.  Major Takeaways: Learn how to modify your flash to achieve soft or hard light look. Discover how to bounce your flash and where from and how the angle of those flash bounces will give your subject very different looks. Learn about light fall-off and how to apply this principle to achieve more or less contrast filled images when using flash/  Module 4:Flash and motion In this module we show you how to use flash when trying to freeze your subject - whether it is your child bouncing on the soufe in dim Novemeber light or an inanimate object making a splash. We also introduce you to a few way you can play with flash and your shutter speed to achieve fun and creative outcomes. Major Takeaways: You will learn how to freeze movement with flash - even on very slow shutter speeds or in very poor light. You will learn how shutter and flash work together and how you can achieve great creative outcomes such as high speed photography or freezing rain.  Next course starts on 12 Feb 2024

Who is this course for? SketchUp - Rendering with V-Ray Course This course is tailored for architects, designers, 3D artists, and anyone interested in enhancing their rendering skills using SketchUp and V-Ray. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this course provides in-depth training to create stunning visualizations and realistic renders in SketchUp using V-Ray. Check our Website Course Duration: 6 hours  Training Method: 1-on-1, (Face to Face) or Live Online session. Personalized to your needs. Course Content Overview: SketchUp and V-Ray: Exploring Intermediate Modeling Techniques Mastering V-Ray Materials: Textures, Sources, and Editing Managing and Optimizing Textures for Graphics and Bitmaps Illuminate Your Designs: Delving into Lighting: Types, Placement, and Scene Enhancement Understanding V-Ray Camera: Exposure, White Point, and Efficient Setup Achieve Stunning Renderings: Rendering Scenes: Digital Output, File Formats, and Best Practices Optimizing Quality Settings for Efficient Scene Creation Transitioning from 2D to 3D: Modeling Essentials for Visualization Utilizing Follow-Me and Push-Pull Techniques Enhancing Designs with Components: Choosing Between Groups and Components Mastering V-Ray Frame Buffer: Automatic 2D Graphic Saving File Types, Properties, and Effective Usage Perfecting V-Ray Materials: Materials Editor: Layering, Previews, and Shiny Surfaces Incorporating Bumps and Bitmaps for Realism Exploring Advanced Techniques: Unveiling Ambient Occlusion Effects Advanced Modeling, including Magic Box and Polygon Techniques Optimizing Texturing: Projected UVW Mapping Fine-Tuning Mapping Size and Position Locking Mapping for Consistency Alpha Channels: Preparing Graphics with Alpha Channels Integrating Rendered Output with Photoshop Hands-On Learning: Practical Exercises: From Concept to Stunning Renderings Vray for SketchUp Trial. https://www.chaosgroup.com/vray/sketchup/free-trial. Texture resources https://www.vray-materials.de/ and https://textures.com After completing the SketchUp and Vray course, participants will: Gain expertise in creating realistic 3D architectural and interior design scenes using Vray for SketchUp. Master lighting, camera settings, and composition for visually striking renders. Excel in applying Vray materials and textures for enhanced design quality. Produce high-quality renderings and refine them with post-production techniques. Receive a certification of attendance and 30 days of post-course email support. Job opportunities include roles in architectural visualization, interior design, real estate marketing, product design, and more. Skills Acquired: Advanced SketchUp Proficiency: Master advanced techniques for modeling and designing in SketchUp. V-Ray Rendering Skills: Learn how to use V-Ray to create realistic, high-quality renders in SketchUp. Texture Mapping and Material Application: Understand the art of texturing and applying materials for lifelike renders. Lighting Techniques: Explore various lighting setups to enhance the realism of your renders. Post-Processing: Gain skills in enhancing renders further through post-processing techniques. Job Opportunities: Architectural Visualizer: Create detailed and realistic architectural visualizations for projects. Interior Designer: Develop compelling interior visualizations for residential or commercial spaces. 3D Artist: Work in the gaming or animation industry, creating 3D models and environments. Visualization Specialist: Provide visualization services for real estate, marketing, or design agencies. Freelance Renderer: Offer your rendering services on a freelance basis to various clients. Why Choose Our Training? Personalized Coaching: Benefit from one-on-one training sessions conducted either Face to Face (SW96DE) or Live online, ensuring a tailored experience with practicing architects and designers. Flexible Hours: Our training is available Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm, accommodating your schedule for a seamless learning experience. Tailored Tutorials: Take advantage of custom video tutorials designed specifically for you, providing additional resources to enhance your learning journey. Comprehensive Reference: Receive a digital reference book to support thorough revision, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of each concept covered. Ongoing Support: Enjoy free and continuous support via phone or email even after the course concludes, ensuring your success beyond the classroom. Adaptable Syllabus: We customize the syllabus and projects to meet your specific needs, ensuring a focused learning experience on what matters most to you. Official Certification: Receive a certificate upon completing your course, recognizing your achievement in mastering the content. Why Us? Individualized Learning Support: Our courses, ranging from 10 hours to 120 hours Diploma training Courses, provide consistent support. With personalized assignments and post-course assistance, we guide you towards mastering software with dedicated help. Personal Attention, No Crowds: Say goodbye to crowded classrooms. Experience the intimacy of one-on-one learning, ensuring you receive the focused attention necessary for a confident and comfortable learning environment. Financial Flexibility: We understand the financial aspects of education. We offer various payment plans tailored to your needs, making your learning journey accessible and affordable. Expert Instructors, Real-world Knowledge: Our instructors are industry experts chosen for their extensive knowledge and teaching passion. Dedicated to imparting invaluable skills, they provide real-world insights to anyone eager to learn.

Who is this course for? SketchUp Pro Training Course For Kitchen Designers. This course is designed for kitchen designers aiming to elevate their skills in SketchUp Pro. Learn creating stunning kitchen worktops, cabinets, and designs tailored to perfection. Perfect your skills and bring 3d kitchen to life. Click here for more info: Website Duration: 6 hours.  Method: 1-on-1, available in-person or Live Online sessions. Monday to Saturday between 9 am and 7 pm Alternatively, contact us at 02077202581 to book over the phone. Course Outline: SketchUp Pro Training Course For Kitchen Designers (6 hours) Module 1: Exploring 3D Warehouse for Appliance Selection Navigating 3D Warehouse for Appliance Models Selecting and Importing Appliances for Your Kitchen Design Module 2: Cabinetry Layout Introduction to Cabinetry Layout Planning and Arranging Cabinets for Functional Kitchens Module 3: Innovative Approaches to Cabinet Design Creative Strategies for Unique Cabinet Designs Incorporating Special Features and Functions Module 4: Creating Countertops and Sink Arrangements Designing Functional Countertops Integrating Sinks and Faucets Effectively Module 5: Enhancing Kitchen Spaces with Backsplashes Utilizing Backsplashes for Aesthetic and Practical Purposes Designing Custom Backsplash Solutions Module 6: Designing Efficient Range Hoods Range Hood Design Principles Ensuring Proper Ventilation and Aesthetics Module 7: Crafting Upper Cabinet Solutions Maximizing Storage and Style with Upper Cabinets Incorporating Upper Cabinet Design Variations Module 8: Perfecting Crown Moulding Applications Enhancing Cabinet and Wall Transitions Achieving a Polished Look with Crown Moulding Module 9: Optimizing Kitchen Islands Designing Functional and Stylish Kitchen Islands Utilizing Islands for Storage and Dining Module 10: Elevating the Ambiance with Wall Design Details Enhancing Walls with Creative Design Elements Adding Character and Texture to Kitchen Spaces Module 11: Ensuring Precise Dimensions Mastering Dimensioning Techniques Achieving Accuracy in Your Kitchen Design Module 12: Mastering Shadows and Style Customization Controlling Shadows for Realistic Renderings Customizing Styles to Enhance Visualization Upon completing the SketchUp Pro Training Course for Kitchen Designers, you will: Master SketchUp for comprehensive kitchen design. Efficiently select appliances from 3D Warehouse. Plan innovative cabinet layouts. Design functional countertops and sinks. Enhance kitchens with stylish backsplashes. Create efficient range hoods. Maximize storage with upper cabinets. Perfect crown moulding applications. Optimize kitchen islands. Elevate ambiance with wall design details. Ensure precision in dimensions. Customize realistic renderings. Job Opportunities: Kitchen designers can pursue roles such as Kitchen Designer, Interior Designer, Cabinet Designer, CAD Specialist, 3D Modeler, Home Renovation Consultant, and more. Freelance opportunities are also available. Skills Acquired: Advanced Kitchen Modeling: Master the art of creating detailed kitchen worktops, cabinets, and layouts using SketchUp Pro. Texture Mapping and Material Application: Learn to apply realistic textures and materials to enhance kitchen designs. Lighting and Rendering Techniques: Explore lighting setups and rendering tools for lifelike visualizations. Collaborative Design: Enhance skills in collaborative design, enabling seamless communication with clients and colleagues. Job Opportunities: Kitchen Designer: Design custom kitchen spaces, work closely with clients, and bring their visions to life. Interior Designer: Specialize in kitchen interior design, working with a focus on functionality and aesthetics. Furniture Designer: Create bespoke kitchen furniture pieces and optimize space for practical use. Freelance Kitchen Design Consultant: Offer specialized kitchen design services on a freelance basis, catering to various clients and projects. Personalized Learning! Why Choose Us? Tailored One-on-One Training: Exclusive coaching from skilled architects and designers, in-person or live online, Monday to Saturday. Customized Tutorials: Enhance your skills with tailored video tutorials to take home. Comprehensive Learning: Receive digital resources for thorough understanding and revision. Free Ongoing Support: Enjoy continuous assistance via phone or email, ensuring your success beyond the course. Flexible Syllabus: Adapted to your needs for focused learning. Official Certificate: Validate your expertise with our prestigious certification. Why Us? Supported Individual Learning: Personalized guidance, homework assignments, and post-course assistance for mastery. Personal Attention: Experience one-on-one learning for focused and confident progress. Financial Flexibility: Explore payment options tailored to your budget. Expert Instructors: Learn from industry experts dedicated to your success.

Who is this course for? SketchUp Basic Level Training Course. Click here for more info: Website Ideal for newcomers to 3D modeling, it suits students, hobbyists, and professionals. Gain a strong foundation in SketchUp, perfect for careers in architecture and interior design. Our flexible 1-on-1 sessions let you tailor your learning schedule. Schedule sessions Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 7 pm. The 5-hour course adapts to your timeline, ensuring a personalized, supportive, and adaptable learning experience. Course Title: SketchUp Basic Course. Course Duration: 5 hours Understanding the Basics of SketchUp Introduction to SketchUp Navigating the SketchUp Environment Exploring Zoom, Pan, and Rotate Functions Familiarizing Yourself with the XYZ Axis Mastering SketchUp Tools Efficient Toolbar Selections Utilizing Templates for Projects Drawing with Precision Using the Pencil Tool Working with Fundamental Geometric Shapes Taking Accurate Measurements Advanced SketchUp Techniques Creating Circles and Arcs Harnessing Sticky Geometry Solutions Unveiling the Power of Tags (Formerly Layers) Streamlining Workflow with Keyboard Shortcuts Accurate Object Measurement within SketchUp Information Management and Database Usage Moving and Copying Objects Simple Array Techniques Mastering Rotational Manipulations Effortless Rotational Copying Fractional and Relative Scaling Component and Group Creation Constructing Components for Reusability Creating Efficient Groups Comparing the Advantages of Components and Groups Saving and Reusing Components Importing Components from Digital Repositories Advanced Modeling and Geometry Leveraging Push-Pull Operations Creating Complex Shapes with the Follow Me Tool Exploring Geometry Intersections Duplicating and Offsetting Faces, Edges, and Polygons Incorporating 2D Polygons into Your Drawings Skillful Use of the Paint Bucket Tool Materials and Textures Proficiency with the Materials Editor Applying High-Quality Textures Sourcing and Positioning Textures Graphics and Bitmap Considerations Crafting Scenes and Styles Generating and Customizing Scenes Managing Scenes and Styles Introduction to Animation and Presentation Animation Concepts Adding Dimensions to Your SketchUp Models Annotating Designs for Clarity Preparing Models for Printing Exporting Images and PDFs in 2D Formats This comprehensive SketchUp Fundamentals course will equip you with essential skills to create, modify, and present 3D models effectively. After completing our 5-hour SketchUp training, you'll achieve the following learning outcomes: Basic SketchUp Proficiency: Gain essential skills to navigate the SketchUp interface and utilize its core features effectively. Geometry Creation: Learn to create 2D and 3D geometric shapes, lines, and curves with precision. Rendering Concepts: Understand the fundamentals of rendering and how to apply basic rendering techniques to enhance your designs. Model Organization: Discover techniques for organizing and structuring your SketchUp models efficiently. Visualization Skills: Develop the ability to visualize and plan architectural and interior design concepts in 3D. Efficient Workflows: Acquire time-saving tips and tricks for streamlining your design workflow. Personal Projects: Apply your newfound skills to your personal design projects or professional endeavors. By the end of this short training, you'll have a solid foundation in SketchUp, allowing you to create and present basic 3D models and designs effectively. After SketchUp Training, You'll Acquire: Advanced 3D Modeling: Master the art of creating intricate 3D models, architectural designs, and detailed structures using SketchUp. Texture Mapping and Material Application: Learn to apply realistic textures and materials, enhancing the visual appeal of your 3D creations. Rendering Techniques: Explore rendering plugins like V-Ray or Twilight Render to create lifelike visualizations of your designs. Collaboration and Presentation: Develop skills to effectively collaborate with teams and present your ideas in professional and compelling ways. Project Visualization: Enhance your ability to transform conceptual ideas into visually stunning and detailed 3D representations. Job Opportunities: Architectural Designer: Create detailed architectural models for residential and commercial projects. Interior Designer: Design interior spaces, visualizing furniture placements, colors, and decor elements. Landscape Architect: Develop 3D landscape designs, showcasing outdoor spaces and environmental elements. 3D Modeler: Work in various industries, creating 3D models for animations, games, or simulations. Visualization Specialist: Provide visualization services to real estate agencies, design firms, or marketing companies, transforming ideas into compelling visuals. Why Choose Us? Tailored One-on-One Training: Exclusive coaching from skilled architects and designers, in-person or live online, Monday to Saturday. Customized Tutorials: Enhance your skills with tailored video tutorials to take home. Comprehensive Learning: Receive digital resources for thorough understanding and revision. Free Ongoing Support: Enjoy continuous assistance via phone or email, ensuring your success beyond the course. Flexible Syllabus: Adapted to your needs for focused learning. Official Certificate: Validate your expertise with our prestigious certification.

Starting a small business can be a rewarding journey, but it requires careful planning and the right strategies to succeed. From creating a solid business plan to organizing finances and finding the right support, this guide will help you establish a foundation for a thriving business. For entrepreneurs in Calgary, key resources like reliable bookkeeping services can make a significant difference. Here’s how to start a small business and set it up for lasting success. Developing a business plan A clear, well-researched business plan serves as a roadmap for your business. It outlines your goals, target market, competitive advantage, and financial projections. This plan will also help attract investors or secure loans. To create an effective business plan: Define your mission and vision: Explain why your business exists and what you aim to achieve. Identify your target audience: Determine who your customers are and what problems your business will solve for them. Analyze competitors: Study your competitors to understand what they offer and find ways to differentiate your business. Set realistic financial projections: Estimate costs, revenue, and profits. This will give potential investors confidence in your business. Choosing a business structure Selecting the right business structure is essential, as it affects your taxes, liability, and daily operations. Common options include: Sole proprietorship: Simple to set up, with minimal paperwork, but offers no separation of personal and business liability. Partnership: Ideal for two or more owners, allowing shared responsibilities, but partners share liabilities. Corporation: Provides liability protection, but involves more paperwork and regulatory requirements. LLC (Limited Liability Company): Offers liability protection without the complexity of a corporation. Choose a structure that best suits your needs, and consult a legal professional to ensure compliance with Calgary’s business regulations. Securing funding Most small businesses require some level of funding to get started. Consider various financing options to find the best fit: Personal savings or family support: Often the first source of funding for many entrepreneurs. Business loans: Many banks offer small business loans with varying interest rates. Grants and government programs: Explore government grants and programs specifically designed to support small businesses in Calgary. Angel investors or venture capital: For businesses with high growth potential, attracting investors may be an option. Registering your business To operate legally, you’ll need to register your business. This process involves choosing a unique name, filing the necessary documents, and obtaining a business license in Calgary. You may also need specific permits depending on your industry. Completing these steps ensures that your business complies with all local regulations. Organizing your finances Managing finances effectively is crucial for any small business. Accurate bookkeeping keeps your business organized, tracks income and expenses, and prepares you for tax season. Many small businesses in Calgary choose to hire a bookkeeper in Calgary to handle these responsibilities, allowing owners to focus on growth. Working with one of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can provide: Accurate financial records: Professional bookkeepers help maintain up-to-date records, which is essential for financial health. Compliance with tax laws: Calgary’s best bookkeeping services are familiar with local tax regulations, ensuring that you file correctly and on time. Insights for decision-making: With accurate records, you can make informed decisions on budgeting, spending, and investments. Creating a strong brand identity Building a brand that resonates with your target audience is essential. Your brand identity includes your business name, logo, colors, and messaging, as well as the experience you offer customers. Developing a consistent brand identity sets you apart from competitors and builds trust with customers. Here are some steps to create a strong brand identity: Design a logo and visual theme: Choose a professional logo, color scheme, and design elements that reflect your brand’s personality. Develop a unique brand voice: Whether it’s friendly, professional, or playful, keep your brand voice consistent in all communications. Focus on customer experience: Aim to provide exceptional service that keeps customers coming back and sharing their positive experiences. Building an online presence In today’s digital world, an online presence is crucial for reaching potential customers. Start by creating a professional website where customers can learn more about your products or services. Next, consider establishing a presence on social media platforms that suit your audience. Key components of a strong online presence include: User-friendly website: Make sure your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and includes essential information about your business. Social media profiles: Engage with customers and share updates on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Google My Business: Setting up a Google My Business profile helps customers in Calgary find you more easily. Building a support network Running a small business can be challenging, and having a network of support is invaluable. Surround yourself with people who can provide advice, resources, and encouragement. Consider these ways to build a support network: Join local business associations: Groups like the Calgary Chamber of Commerce offer networking opportunities, resources, and workshops. Seek mentorship: Experienced business owners can offer guidance and insights that help you avoid common pitfalls. Hire professionals for specialized tasks: For financial and legal matters, work with professionals like accountants, lawyers, and bookkeepers. Tracking progress and making adjustments As your business grows, it’s essential to review your progress and adjust your strategies. Regularly assessing financial performance, customer feedback, and market trends can help you refine your approach and stay competitive. Working with one of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can make tracking your financial performance much easier, giving you insight into profit margins, cash flow, and budgeting. Consider these strategies for tracking progress: Set measurable goals: Establish specific goals for growth, such as revenue targets or customer acquisition numbers. Analyze performance data: Use financial statements, sales reports, and customer feedback to assess performance. Stay flexible: Be willing to make changes to products, services, or marketing strategies if they aren’t meeting customer needs. Conclusion Starting a small business takes effort, planning, and ongoing management. By creating a solid business plan, organizing your finances, and developing a strong brand, you can set your business up for success. In Calgary, many new business owners choose to hire a bookkeeper in Calgary to ensure accurate financial management and stay compliant with local regulations. Taking advantage of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can free up your time, allowing you to focus on growing your business and achieving long-term success. With dedication and the right strategies, your small business can thrive in today’s competitive market.

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?

Project management can seem scary and rather intimidating. The whole aim of this programme is to give people a simple and straightforward way of dealing with projects without having to use complex and confusing systems. This two-day course is designed to introduce the apparently complex world of project management in a simple and practical manner. The programme is for anybody who has to run a project of any nature. It has been attended by people from as diverse fields as events management, fashion, charities, oil companies and so on. The programme is run without using any IT project management systems although an introduction can be given if required. At the end of the programme participants will leave understanding: What a project is and why projects are so important today The roles of a project manager Some key language and concepts A simple 5-step model for organising projects How to make sure you understand what your 'client' really wants A set of three simple tools to plan the project How to make decisions What to monitor when the project is running How to close the project 1 Introduction What is the aim of this programme? 2 Background thinking What is a project? The project manager's eternal triangle (cost-quality-time) What are the characteristics of successful projects? Who are the key characters in a project? What are the roles of a project manager? 3 The project process Why have one? 4 Project initiation What is the aim? Identifying key information Key skill: mission analysis Initial risk analysis Document and sign-off 5 Decision-making - 'Stop, Think, Act!' The 'Stop, Think, Act!' technique Recognise the opportunity to make a decision The 3 Cs - making sure we understand the decisions we have to make Identifying options Making your decision Taking it to action 6 Creativity 7 The planning stage Identify all discrete tasks Sequence and dependencies Time line - critical path Resources Project base-line 8 Execution stage - delivering the result Monitor Evaluate Adapt Control Review 9 The project close Review Documentation Have we delivered? What have we learned?

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

This programme provides an intensive, one-day overview of the key concepts and techniques of project management. The project management methods presented can be applied to a wide range of projects and the course emphasises both the task and the team-related aspects of project management. The aims of the programme are to: Present the key concepts of project management Provide a structured approach for managing projects Demonstrate tools and techniques for planning and controlling project work Enable participants to apply the techniques to their own projects At the end of the programme, participants will: Recognise the benefits of a structured approach to project work Be able to apply a range of practical tools and techniques to improve their personal effectiveness in project work Have a means of determining the status of current projects and know what actions are needed to ensure success 1 Introduction Why this programme has been developed Review of participants' needs and objectives 2 Key concepts The characteristics of projects and project work The four key phases of a project Essential lessons from past projects Key success factors Achieving success through the 'Team-Action Model' Challenges of the multi-project situation 3 Setting project goals Understanding 'customer' requirements Managing project stakeholders and gaining commitment Using questioning skills to define goals and success criteria Defining and documenting the scope of the project 4 Project planning Defining what has to be done Creating a work breakdown Agreeing roles and responsibilities for the work Developing a programme using networks and bar charts Estimating timescales, costs and resource requirements Planning exercise: participants develop a project plan Identifying and managing project risks Using project planning software Managing and updating the plan 5 Project implementation and control Creating a pro-active monitoring and control process Techniques for monitoring progress Using latest estimates Managing project meetings Resolving problems effectively Managing multiple projects Personal time management 6 Course review and action planning Identify actions Sponsor-led review and discussion of proposals Conclusion

The aim of this course is to provide an overview of the key principles and techniques for leading and managing project work. It will focus on the core principles and generic methods of project management, showing how these can be applied to typical projects. 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 of, and help participants understand the skills required by, the project leader Illustrate the use of project skills through examples and case studies Identify ways to improve project management, both individually and corporately DAY ONE 1 Introduction (Course sponsor) Why this programme has been developed Review of participants' needs and objectives 2 Key concepts and requirements for success Projects and project management Lessons from past projects; the essential requirements for success Differences between projects; characteristic project life cycles The challenges of project management; the role of the project manager Project exerciseA team exercise to demonstrate the challenges of project management 3 Defining project objectives and scope Identifying the stakeholders; key roles and responsibilities Getting organised; managing the definition process Working with the 'customer' to define the project scope 4 Project case study: part 1 Defining the project objectives: syndicate teams define the objectives and scope for a typical project 5 Project planning The nature of planning; recognising planning assumptions Planning the plan; the importance of team involvement Developing the work breakdown structure Estimating task resources, timescales and costs Developing the project schedule Analysing the plan and identifying the critical path 6 Project case study: part 2 Creating the project plan Syndicate teams begin development of their project plans (for completion after session 7) Team presentations and group discussion (after session 7) DAY TWO 7 Managing project risks Understanding and defining project risks Classifying risks and adopting an appropriate risk strategy Identifying, evaluating and managing project risks Agreeing ownership of project risks; the risk register Integrating planning and risk management 8 Project control Pro-active and re-active control; striking the right balance Pre-requisites for effective, pro-active project control Avoiding unnecessary 'scope creep' and controlling change Selecting the data needed to provide early warning of problems Monitoring project performance: 'S' curves, slip charts, earned value Getting good data and assessing project status Defining the roles and responsibilities for control Setting up a routine process for keeping up to date Managing and controlling multiple projects 9 Project case study: part 3 Controlling the project Teams control their project as new developments take place 10 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