26778 Management courses in Downpatrick delivered Online

Duration 3 Days 18 CPD hours This course is intended for This is an introductory- level course appropriate for those who are developing applications using relational databases, or who are using SQL to extract and analyze data from databases and need to use the full power of SQL queries. Overview This course combines expert lecture, real-world demonstrations and group discussions with machine-based practical labs and exercises. Working in a hands-on learning environment led by our expert practitioner, attendees will learn to: Maximize the potential of SQL to build powerful, complex and robust SQL queries Query multiple tables with inner joins, outer joins and self joins Construct recursive common table expressions Summarize data using aggregation and grouping Execute analytic functions to calculate ranks Build simple and correlated subqueries Thoroughly test SQL queries to avoid common errors Select the most efficient solution to complex SQL problems A company?s success hinges on responsible, accurate database management. Organizations rely on highly available data to complete all sorts of tasks, from creating marketing reports and invoicing customers to setting financial goals. Data professionals like analysts, developers and architects are tasked with creating, optimizing, managing and analyzing data from databases ? with little room for error. When databases aren?t built or maintained correctly, it?s easy to mishandle or lose valuable data. Our SQL Programming and Database Training Series provides students with the skills they require to develop, analyze and maintain data and in correctly structured, modern and secure databases. SQL is the cornerstone of all relational database operations. In this hands-on course, you learn to exploit the full potential of the SELECT statement to write robust queries using the best query method for your application, test your queries, and avoid common errors and pitfalls. It also teaches alternative solutions to given problems, enabling you to choose the most efficient solution in each situation. Introduction: Quick Tools Review Introduction to SQL and its development environments Using SQL*PLUS Using SQL Developer Using the SQL SELECT Statement Capabilities of the SELECT statement Arithmetic expressions and NULL values in the SELECT statement Column aliases Use of concatenation operator, literal character strings, alternative quote operator, and the DISTINCT keyword Use of the DESCRIBE command Restricting and Sorting Data Limiting the Rows Rules of precedence for operators in an expression Substitution Variables Using the DEFINE and VERIFY command Single-Row Functions Describe the differences between single row and multiple row functions Manipulate strings with character function in the SELECT and WHERE clauses Manipulate numbers with the ROUND, TRUNC and MOD functions Perform arithmetic with date data Manipulate dates with the date functions Conversion Functions and Expressions Describe implicit and explicit data type conversion Use the TO_CHAR, TO_NUMBER, and TO_DATE conversion functions Nest multiple functions Apply the NVL, NULLIF, and COALESCE functions to data Decode/Case Statements Using the Group Functions and Aggregated Data Group Functions Creating Groups of Data Having Clause Cube/Rollup Clause SQL Joins and Join Types Introduction to JOINS Types of Joins Natural join Self-join Non equijoins OUTER join Using Subqueries Introduction to Subqueries Single Row Subqueries Multiple Row Subqueries Using the SET Operators Set Operators UNION and UNION ALL operator INTERSECT operator MINUS operator Matching the SELECT statements Using Data Manipulation Language (DML) statements Data Manipulation Language Database Transactions Insert Update Delete Merge Using Data Definition Language (DDL) Data Definition Language Create Alter Drop Data Dictionary Views Introduction to Data Dictionary Describe the Data Dictionary Structure Using the Data Dictionary views Querying the Data Dictionary Views Dynamic Performance Views Creating Sequences, Synonyms, Indexes Creating sequences Creating synonyms Creating indexes Index Types Creating Views Creating Views Altering Views Replacing Views Managing Schema Objects Managing constraints Creating and using temporary tables Creating and using external tables Retrieving Data Using Subqueries Retrieving Data by Using a Subquery as Source Working with Multiple-Column subqueries Correlated Subqueries Non-Correlated Subqueries Using Subqueries to Manipulate Data Using the Check Option Subqueries in Updates and Deletes In-line Views Data Control Language (DCL) System privileges Creating a role Object privileges Revoking object privileges Manipulating Data Overview of the Explicit Default Feature Using multitable INSERTs Using the MERGE statement Tracking Changes in Data

Register on the Construction Safety today and build the experience, skills and knowledge you need to enhance your professional development and work towards your dream job. Study this course through online learning and take the first steps towards a long-term career. The course consists of a number of easy to digest, in-depth modules, designed to provide you with a detailed, expert level of knowledge. Learn through a mixture of instructional video lessons and online study materials. Receive online tutor support as you study the course, to ensure you are supported every step of the way. Get a digital certificate as a proof of your course completion. The Construction Safety is incredibly great value and allows you to study at your own pace. Access the course modules from any internet-enabled device, including computers, tablet, and smartphones. The course is designed to increase your employability and equip you with everything you need to be a success. Enrol on the now and start learning instantly! What You Get With The Construction Safety Receive an e-certificate upon successful completion of the course Get taught by experienced, professional instructors Study at a time and pace that suits your learning style Get instant feedback on assessments 24/7 help and advice via email or live chat Get full tutor support on weekdays (Monday to Friday) Course Design The course is delivered through our online learning platform, accessible through any internet-connected device. There are no formal deadlines or teaching schedules, meaning you are free to study the course at your own pace. You are taught through a combination of Video lessons Online study materials Certification Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to obtain your course completion e-certificate. Print copy by post is also available at an additional cost of £9.99 and PDF Certificate at £4.99. Who Is This Course For: The course is ideal for those who already work in this sector or are an aspiring professional. This course is designed to enhance your expertise and boost your CV. Learn key skills and gain a professional qualification to prove your newly-acquired knowledge. Requirements: The online training is open to all students and has no formal entry requirements. To study the Construction Safety, all your need is a passion for learning, a good understanding of English, numeracy, and IT skills. You must also be over the age of 16. Course Content Module 01: Managing Health and Safety Managing Health and Safety 00:30:00 Module 02: Risk Assessment and Common Risks Risk Assessment and Common Risks 00:21:00 Module 03: Health and Safety at Work and the Laws Health and Safety at Work and the Laws 00:24:00 Module 04: Reporting Accidents at Work Reporting Accidents at Work 00:18:00 Module 05: General Site Issues General Site Issues 00:30:00 Module 06: Working at Height Working at Height 00:28:00 Module 07: Excavation Work and Confined spaces Excavation Work and Confined spaces 00:32:00 Module 08: Work Equipments Work Equipments 00:29:00 Module 09: Manual and Mechanical Handling Manual and Mechanical Handling 00:29:00 Module 10: Chemical and Biological Health Hazards and Control Chemical and Biological Health Hazards and Control 00:30:00 Module 11: - Electrical Hazards and Control Electrical Hazards and Control 00:27:00 Module 12: - Fire Hazards and Control Fire Hazards and Control 00:24:00 Order your Certificates & Transcripts Order your Certificates & Transcripts 00:00:00 Frequently Asked Questions Are there any prerequisites for taking the course? There are no specific prerequisites for this course, nor are there any formal entry requirements. All you need is an internet connection, a good understanding of English and a passion for learning for this course. Can I access the course at any time, or is there a set schedule? You have the flexibility to access the course at any time that suits your schedule. Our courses are self-paced, allowing you to study at your own pace and convenience. How long will I have access to the course? For this course, you will have access to the course materials for 1 year only. This means you can review the content as often as you like within the year, even after you've completed the course. However, if you buy Lifetime Access for the course, you will be able to access the course for a lifetime. Is there a certificate of completion provided after completing the course? Yes, upon successfully completing the course, you will receive a certificate of completion. This certificate can be a valuable addition to your professional portfolio and can be shared on your various social networks. Can I switch courses or get a refund if I'm not satisfied with the course? We want you to have a positive learning experience. If you're not satisfied with the course, you can request a course transfer or refund within 14 days of the initial purchase. How do I track my progress in the course? Our platform provides tracking tools and progress indicators for each course. You can monitor your progress, completed lessons, and assessments through your learner dashboard for the course. What if I have technical issues or difficulties with the course? If you encounter technical issues or content-related difficulties with the course, our support team is available to assist you. You can reach out to them for prompt resolution.

Total SAGE Training (Sage 50 Accounts + Sage Payroll Training) Want to open the door to working in Finance and Accountancy Industry? Starting our Total Sage Training courses will enhance your career potentials and give you the skills and knowledge you need to get started in Finance and Accountancy Industry. Total Sage Training courses are combined with Sage 50 Accounts and Sage Payroll Training. You will receive a CPD Completion Certificate from Osborne Training once you finish the course. You also have an Option to attain Certificate from SAGE(UK) subject to passing the exams. What qualification will I gain for Sage Training Courses? CERTIFICATION FROM SAGE (UK) As Osborne Training is a Sage (UK) Approved training provider, you could gain the following qualifications provided that you book and register for exams and pass the exams successfully: Sage 50c Computerised Accounting Course (Level 1) Sage 50c Computerised Accounting Course (Level 2) Sage 50c Computerised Accounting Course (Level 3) Sage 50c Computerised Payroll Course (Level 1) Sage 50c Computerised Payroll Course (Level 2) Sage 50c Computerised Payroll Course (Level 3) Level 1 Working with Sage 50 Accounts Program Basics. Creating Account names, Numbers & Bank Payments Financials Bank Reconciliations Generating Customers Invoices Monitoring Customer Activity Generating Product Invoices & Credit Notes Compiling & Sending Customer Statements Creating Customer Receipts & Purchase Invoices Supplier Payments Managing Recurring Entries Generating Reports & Information The Active Set-Up Wizard VAT Changes. Level 2 An overview of the Sage program Entering opening balances, preparing and printing a trial balance Creating customer records Creating supplier records Setting up opening assets, liabilities and capital balances, Producing routine reports Checking data, Entering supplier invoices Posting error corrections, amending records Invoicing, generating customer letters, entering new products, checking communication history Banking and payments, producing statements, petty cash Audit trails, correcting basic entry errors, reconciling debtors and creditors Creating sales credit notes, Processing purchase credit notes Preparing journals Verifying Audit Trail Purchase orders, processing sales orders Processing Trial Balance Creating Backups Restoring data Writing-off bad debts Level 3 Creating a Chart of Accounts to Suit Company Requirements Sole Trader Accounts preparation The Trial Balance preparation Errors in the Trial Balance Disputed Items Use of the Journal Prepare and Process Month End Routine Contra Entries The Government Gateway and VAT Returns Bad Debts and Provision for Doubtful Debts Prepare and Produce Final Accounts Management Information Reports Making Decisions with Reports Using Sage The Fixed Asset Register and Depreciation Accruals and Prepayments Cash Flow and Forecast Reports Advanced Credit Control

Virtual course for parents of adult children at risk/pre manifest. We are pleased to invite you to our virtual course for parents of adult children at risk/pre manifest. This is an opportunity to improve your knowledge of the issues surrounding your adult child at risk, share your experiences and gain ideas of support available for yourself and your adult child. This is a 5 week course running from Thursday 22 February 2024 10am -11.30am until Thursday 21 March, with the final session being an extended session narrative therapy session facilitated by Riverbank Psychology. There will be the opportunity to join a follow up support group. Week 1 – Thursday 22 February 2024 10am Welcome and overview of support available from the Huntington Disease Association. Speaker: James O’Connor – Team Leader HDYES – Huntington’s Disease Association Week 2 – Thursday 29 February 2024 10am Genetics: How to access testing, the process and family planning options Speaker: Chris Platt – SHDA – Huntington’s Disease Association Week 3 – Thursday 7 March 2024 10am Research update and what next Speaker: Nataile Saad - Research Sister - Welcome Trust Southampton University Hospital Week 4 – Thursday 14 March 2024 10am Finances planning ahead Speaker: Lisa Pearson - Financial Advisor - Asset management Week 5 – Thursday 21 March 2024 9.30 -12.30pm (note longer session)* Narrative Therapy: Coping with Feelings, supporting a loved one and self-care. Mariangels Ferrer – Clinical Psychologist – Riverbank Psychology * We will invite previous course participants to this part of the course but can only accommodate a maximum of 12/14 people on the day. The focus of Narrative Therapy in this group is to participate in a creative activity that explores identity through values, beliefs, and support systems, enabling us to make connections to our external lives which will be sustainable in our everyday lives. Mariangels Ferrer Duch is a Clinical Psychologist trained in Narrative Therapy who will be facilitating a three-hour Narrative Therapy session. The focus of the session will be upon the many small things that are important to us in life which can often be overlooked in times of stress. We hope the conversation will help to mutually inspire us all! We take your privacy seriously and promise to never sell your data. You can find out more about your rights, how we use your personal information and how we keep your details safe and secure by reading our privacy policy here. For more information email info@hda.org.uk or call 0151 331 5444.

Register on the Advanced Diploma in Digital Marketing today and build the experience, skills and knowledge you need to enhance your professional development and work towards your dream job. Study this course through online learning and take the first steps towards a long-term career. The course consists of a number of easy to digest, in-depth modules, designed to provide you with a detailed, expert level of knowledge. Learn through a mixture of instructional video lessons and online study materials. Receive online tutor support as you study the course, to ensure you are supported every step of the way. Get a certificate as proof of your course completion. The Advanced Diploma in Digital Marketing course is incredibly great value and allows you to study at your own pace. Access the course modules from any internet-enabled device, including computers, tablets, and smartphones. The course is designed to increase your employability and equip you with everything you need to be a success. Enrol on the now and start learning instantly! What You Get With The Advanced Diploma in Digital Marketing course Receive a digital certificate upon successful completion of the course Get taught by experienced, professional instructors Study at a time and pace that suits your learning style Get instant feedback on assessments 24/7 help and advice via email or live chat Get full tutor support on weekdays (Monday to Friday) Course Design The course is delivered through our online learning platform, accessible through any internet-connected device. There are no formal deadlines or teaching schedules, meaning you are free to study the course at your own pace. You are taught through a combination of Video lessons Online study materials Certification After the successful completion of the final assessment, you will receive a CPD-accredited certificate of achievement. The PDF certificate is for £9.99, and it will be sent to you immediately after through e-mail. You can get the hard copy for £15.99, which will reach your doorsteps by post. Who Is This Course For: The course is ideal for those who already work in this sector or are aspiring professionals. This course is designed to enhance your expertise and boost your CV. Learn key skills and gain a professional qualification to prove your newly-acquired knowledge. Requirements: The online training is open to all students and has no formal entry requirements. To study the Advanced Diploma in Digital Marketing course, all you need is a passion for learning, A good understanding of English, numeracy, and IT skills. You must also be over the age of 16. Frequently Asked Questions Are there any prerequisites for taking the course? There are no specific prerequisites for this course, nor are there any formal entry requirements. All you need is an internet connection, a good understanding of English and a passion for learning for this course. Can I access the course at any time, or is there a set schedule? You have the flexibility to access the course at any time that suits your schedule. Our courses are self-paced, allowing you to study at your own pace and convenience. How long will I have access to the course? For this course, you will have access to the course materials for 1 year only. This means you can review the content as often as you like within the year, even after you've completed the course. However, if you buy Lifetime Access for the course, you will be able to access the course for a lifetime. Is there a certificate of completion provided after completing the course? Yes, upon successfully completing the course, you will receive a certificate of completion. This certificate can be a valuable addition to your professional portfolio and can be shared on your various social networks. Can I switch courses or get a refund if I'm not satisfied with the course? We want you to have a positive learning experience. If you're not satisfied with the course, you can request a course transfer or refund within 14 days of the initial purchase. How do I track my progress in the course? Our platform provides tracking tools and progress indicators for each course. You can monitor your progress, completed lessons, and assessments through your learner dashboard for the course. What if I have technical issues or difficulties with the course? If you encounter technical issues or content-related difficulties with the course, our support team is available to assist you. You can reach out to them for prompt resolution.

Register on the COSHH Training: Practical Assessment and Control today and build the experience, skills and knowledge you need to enhance your professional development and work towards your dream job. Study this course through online learning and take the first steps towards a long-term career. The course consists of a number of easy to digest, in-depth modules, designed to provide you with a detailed, expert level of knowledge. Learn through a mixture of instructional video lessons and online study materials. Receive online tutor support as you study the course, to ensure you are supported every step of the way. Get a digital certificate as a proof of your course completion. The COSHH Training: Practical Assessment and Control course is incredibly great value and allows you to study at your own pace. Access the course modules from any internet-enabled device, including computers, tablet, and smartphones. The course is designed to increase your employability and equip you with everything you need to be a success. Enrol on the now and start learning instantly! Why Choose this Course? Receive a e-certificate upon successful completion of the course Get taught by experienced, professional instructors Study at a time and pace that suits your learning style Get instant feedback on assessments 24/7 help and advice via email or live chat Get full tutor support on weekdays (Monday to Friday) Course Design The course is delivered through our online learning platform, accessible through any internet-connected device. There are no formal deadlines or teaching schedules, meaning you are free to study the course at your own pace. You are taught through a combination of Video lessons Online study materials Mock exams Multiple-choice assessment Certification Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to obtain your course completion e-certificate free of cost. Print copy by post is also available at an additional cost of £9.99 and PDF Certificate at £4.99. Course Content COSHH Training: Practical Assessment and Control Identifying Hazardous Substances 00:27:00 Implementing Control Measures 00:21:00 Control Measures and Monitoring 00:30:00 COSHH Explained 00:34:00 COSHH Regulations 00:34:00 Health Problems Related to Hazardous Substances 00:28:00 COSHH Risk Assessments 00:35:00 Frequently Asked Questions Are there any prerequisites for taking the course? There are no specific prerequisites for this course, nor are there any formal entry requirements. All you need is an internet connection, a good understanding of English and a passion for learning for this course. Can I access the course at any time, or is there a set schedule? You have the flexibility to access the course at any time that suits your schedule. Our courses are self-paced, allowing you to study at your own pace and convenience. How long will I have access to the course? For this course, you will have access to the course materials for 1 year only. This means you can review the content as often as you like within the year, even after you've completed the course. However, if you buy Lifetime Access for the course, you will be able to access the course for a lifetime. Is there a certificate of completion provided after completing the course? Yes, upon successfully completing the course, you will receive a certificate of completion. This certificate can be a valuable addition to your professional portfolio and can be shared on your various social networks. Can I switch courses or get a refund if I'm not satisfied with the course? We want you to have a positive learning experience. If you're not satisfied with the course, you can request a course transfer or refund within 14 days of the initial purchase. How do I track my progress in the course? Our platform provides tracking tools and progress indicators for each course. You can monitor your progress, completed lessons, and assessments through your learner dashboard for the course. What if I have technical issues or difficulties with the course? If you encounter technical issues or content-related difficulties with the course, our support team is available to assist you. You can reach out to them for prompt resolution.

Duration 3 Days 18 CPD hours This course is intended for The primary audience for this course is as follows: Channel partners and reseller engineers installing, configuring, and maintaining scalable and resilient deployments of Cisco Meeting Server Channel partners and reseller engineers providing presales support for scalable and resilient Cisco Meeting Server deployments Customer engineers supporting scalable and resilient Cisco Meeting Server deployments Overview Upon completion of this course, the learner should be able to meet the following objectives: Cisco Meeting Server API commands Scalable and resilient deployments Customization Recording In this 3-day course Cisco Meeting Server Advanced (COLLAB350), you will learn advanced techniques in installing, troubleshooting, and maintaining a single server and single server split deployment of Cisco Meeting Servers. The recently purchased Acano collaboration hardware and software includes video and audio-bridging technology that allows customers to connect video systems from multiple vendors across both cloud and hybrid environments. Cisco has incorporated Acano collaboration technologies into the new Meeting Server tool. Module 1: Reviewing Cisco Meeting Server Intermediate Component parts of a Cisco Meeting Solution Configuration steps for a Cisco Meeting Solution Module 2: APIs Purpose of APIs Benefits of APIs Types of APIs Function of the GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE commands Module 3: Configuring Software with an API How a user can interact with software using an API Download and install Chrome Postman Other API software Download the Cisco Meeting Server API guide Module 4: Configuring Spaces with the Cisco Meeting Server API Cisco Meeting Server API structure Use Chrome Postman for information on calls and spaces with the GET command Use Chrome Postman to post a new call space with the POST command Use Chrome Postman to place changes in a space, including adding a member, with the PUT command Use Chrome Postman to delete a space with the DELETE command Module 5: Customization Configuration Create and modify a user profile and assign users Create and modify a dual-tone multifrequency (DTMF) profile and apply to a user profile Modify the interactive voice response (IVR), color scheme, and background Module 6: Planning a Resilient and Scalable Cisco Meeting Server Deployment Resilient server solutions Scalable server solutions Geographically dispersed configurations and GeoDNS Domain Name System (DNS) records required for a resilient and scalable solution Certificate requirements for a resilient and scalable solution Module 7: Configuring a Database Cluster Relationship between cluster master and cluster slaves in a database cluster Certificate requirements for a secure database cluster Configure the certificates for a database cluster Configure a database cluster Module 8: Configuring a Call Bridge Cluster Relationship between the Call Bridge and the Database How cross-cluster spaces behave Configure certificates for Call Bridge clustering Storage of configuration when entering with the API and the individual web interfaces for Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) and Call Bridge clustering Configure a Call Bridge Cluster Connect XMPP server to multiple Call Bridges Module 9: Configuring Load Balancers and Trunks Relationship between the XMPP server, Trunk and Load Balancer Configure certificates for multiple trunks and load balancers Configure multiple Trunks to multiple Load Balancers Module 10: Configuring Multiple Web Bridges Relationship between multiple Web Bridges and Call Bridges Internal and external DNS records support for both internal and external Web Bridges Configure certificates for multiple Web Bridges Configure multiple Web bridges Connect multiple Call Bridges to multiple Web Bridges Module 11: Configuring Multiple TURN Servers Relationship between multiple TURN servers and multiple Call Bridges Configure certificates for multiple TURN servers Configure multiple TURN servers Connect multiple Call Bridges to multiple TURN servers Module 12: Configuring Multiple Recorders Features of the recording capability Software, hardware, and licensing requirements for recording DNS records Configure the Recorder Relationship between multiple Recorders and multiple Call Bridges Configure a Call Bridge to use a Recorder Configure certificates for multiple Recorders servers Configure multiple Recorder servers Connect multiple Call Bridges to multiple Recorder servers Module 13: Integrating with a Resilient and Scalable Cisco Meeting Server Deployment Integration with Cisco TelePresence Video Communication Server (VCS) or Cisco Unified Communications Manager and multiple Call Bridges Integration with Cisco Expressway technology and multiple Call Bridges Integration with Microsoft Skype for Business and multiple Call Bridges Integration with Cisco TelePresence Management Suite and multiple Call Bridges Module 14: Deploying an H.323 Gateway Cisco preferred architecture for H.323 and Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) interoperability Functionality of the Cisco Meeting Server H.323 gateway Configuration the Cisco Meeting Server H.323 gateway Module 15: Multitenancy Options Purpose of the multitenancy capabilities Options for multitenancy capabilities on the Cisco Meeting Server Module 16: Customization Options Options available to customize Cisco Meeting Apps License keys required for customization Web Server requirements for customization Options available to customize recorded messaging Customization options available for invitation text

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Register on the Complete Information Security today and build the experience, skills and knowledge you need to enhance your professional development and work towards your dream job. Study this course through online learning and take the first steps towards a long-term career. The course consists of a number of easy to digest, in-depth modules, designed to provide you with a detailed, expert level of knowledge. Learn through a mixture of instructional video lessons and online study materials. Receive online tutor support as you study the course, to ensure you are supported every step of the way. Get an e-certificate as proof of your course completion. The Complete Information Security is incredibly great value and allows you to study at your own pace. Access the course modules from any internet-enabled device, including computers, tablet, and smartphones. The course is designed to increase your employability and equip you with everything you need to be a success. Enrol on the now and start learning instantly! What You Get With The Complete Information Security Receive a e-certificate upon successful completion of the course Get taught by experienced, professional instructors Study at a time and pace that suits your learning style Get instant feedback on assessments 24/7 help and advice via email or live chat Get full tutor support on weekdays (Monday to Friday) Course Design The course is delivered through our online learning platform, accessible through any internet-connected device. There are no formal deadlines or teaching schedules, meaning you are free to study the course at your own pace. You are taught through a combination of Video lessons Online study materials Certification Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to obtain your course completion e-certificate free of cost. Print copy by post is also available at an additional cost of £9.99 and PDF Certificate at £4.99. Who Is This Course For: The course is ideal for those who already work in this sector or are an aspiring professional. This course is designed to enhance your expertise and boost your CV. Learn key skills and gain a professional qualification to prove your newly-acquired knowledge. Requirements: The online training is open to all students and has no formal entry requirements. To study the Complete Information Security, all your need is a passion for learning, a good understanding of English, numeracy, and IT skills. You must also be over the age of 16. 

High quality specifications are of paramount importance in achieving the right technical performance and value for money. This long-established training programme has been developed to help those involved in producing specifications to create high quality documents in an organised and effective way. It provides a sound foundation for those new to the topic whilst at the same time offering new insights to those with more experience. The programme emphasises the need for a clear definition of requirements combined with the ability to communicate those requirements effectively to third parties. A structured method of preparing specifications is provided, and a range of practical techniques is presented, to enable participants to put the principles into practice. The commercial and contractual role of specifications is also addressed. The objectives of the workshop are to: Provide a clear understanding of the role and purpose of specifications Present a framework for organising and producing specifications Define the key steps involved in creating effective specifications Demonstrate methods for assisting in defining requirements Provide tools and techniques for scoping and structuring specifications Show the role of specifications in managing variations and changes to scope Present methods to assist the writing and editing of specifications Review how specifications should be issued and controlled DAY ONE 1 Introduction Review of course objectives Review of participants' needs and objectives 2 Creating effective specifications The role of specifications in communicating requirements The costs, benefits and qualities of effective specifications Understanding the differences between verbal and written communication The five key steps of 'POWER' writing: prepare-organise-write-edit-release Exercise: qualities of an effective specification 3 Step 1: Preparing to write - defining readership and purpose; the specification and the contract Designing the specifications required; applying BS 7373 Defining the purpose, readership and title of each document Effective procedures for writing, issuing and controlling specifications The roles and responsibilities of the key players Understanding contracts; the contractual role of the specification Integrating and balancing the technical and commercial requirements Writing specifications to achieve the appropriate contract risk strategy Deciding how to specify: when to use functional and technical specifications The role of specifications in managing variations and changes to scope 4 Case study 1 Teams review a typical project scenario and identify the implications for the specification Feedback and discussion 5 Step 2: Organising the specification content Defining the need and establishing user requirements Deciding what issues the specification should cover Scoping techniques: scope maps, check lists, structured brainstorming Clarifying priorities: separating needs and desires Dealing with requirements that are difficult to quantify Useful techniques: cost benefit analysis, QFD, Pareto analysis 6 Case study 2 Teams apply the scoping techniques to develop the outline contents for a specification Feedback and discussion DAY TWO 7 Step 2: Organising the specification content (cont) Deciding what goes where; typical contents and layout for a specification The three main segments: introductory, key and supporting Creating and using model forms: the sections and sub-sections Detailed contents of each sub-section Tools and techniques for outlining and structuring specifications 8 Case study 3 Teams develop the detailed specification contents using a model form Feedback and discussion 9 Step 3: Writing the specification The challenges of written communication Identifying and understanding the readers needs Choosing and using the right words; dealing with jargon Problem words; will, shall, must, etc; building 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 Choosing and using graphics to best effect Exercises and examples 10 Step 4: Editing the specification Why editing is difficult; how to develop a personal editing strategy Key areas to review: structure, content, accuracy, clarity, style and grammar Editing tools and techniques 11 Step 5: Releasing and controlling the specification Key requirements for document issue and control Final formatting and publication issues; document approval Requirements management: managing revisions and changes 12 Course review and action planning What actions should be implemented to improve specifications? Conclusion