Getting Started The Master of Business Administration is a prestigious postgraduate qualification that leading employers highly value. The programme is designed to enhance business managers' strategic thinking and decision-making and develop their critical understanding of business management. This programme covers the core business sectors: entrepreneurship, marketing, accounting, statistics, finance, business ethics, business law, managerial economics, business strategy and analysis, operations, administration and communication. This programme, qualified from UK business schools, is well acknowledged and globally respected as it dominates critical thinking and research. MBA can also help you specialise in a new industry you want to move to or in your current sector. This professional qualification improves the chances of progression in a career path. This qualification helps the learner to oversee, supervise and allocate the operations in a business firm. The programme aims to make the candidate capable of understanding the functional aspects of a company and acquiring the skills for communication and decision-making. The programme comprises two phases; the first is the Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership awarded by Qualifi and delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. The second phase is the MBA Top-Up, awarded and delivered 100% online by Anglia Ruskin University. At Anglia Ruskin University, you will study through Canvas, a world-class online Learning Management System (LMS), accessed from your phone, pc or tablet at home or on the move. Canvas provides instant access to study materials, forums, and support from tutors and classmates, as well as enabling easy submission of your assignments. After successfully completing your studies, you'll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony on campus at Anglia Ruskin University. If attending the ceremony in person is not possible, we'll arrange to send your certificate to you. School of Business and Technology London partners with Chestnut Education Group to promote this programme. About Awarding Body Anglia Ruskin University began in 1858 as the Cambridge School of Art founded by William Beaumont. It was then merged with the Cambridge shire College of Arts and Technology and the Essex Institute of Higher Education and was renamed Anglia Polytechnic. It was then given university status in 1992 and renamed Anglia Ruskin University in 2005. The university has campuses in the UK (Cambridge, Chelmsford, London and Peterborough), as well as they are partnered with institutions around the world including Berlin, Budapest, Trinidad, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Assessment Assignments and Project No examinations Entry Requirements A bachelor's degree Applicant without a bachelor's degree but holding significant managerial experience will be considered for entry on a case-by-case basis. Further, candidates are also required to demonstrate their English language proficiency. Progression An MBA graduate can pursue a fruitful career in many industries. MBA can open career opportunities in various sectors such as banking and financial services, investment banking, management consulting, insurance, hospitality, media, information technology (IT) and marketing. MBA is often a pathway to promotion or a career change as you will gain a professional reputation and develop essential skills in the sector one chooses to pursue. Learners must request before enrolment to interchange unit(s) other than the preselected units shown in the SBTL website because we need to make sure the availability of learning materials for the requested unit(s). SBTL will reject an application if the learning materials for the requested interchange unit(s) are unavailable. Learners are not allowed to make any request to interchange unit(s) once enrolment is complete. Structure Phase 1 - Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Programme Structure To attain 120 credits, learners must complete the six compulsory units and select at least two optional units. Mandatory Units Unit 702: Manage Team Performance to Support Strategy Unit code: Y/506/9067 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit's objective is to enable learners to delve into the evaluation and enhancement of team performance to achieve strategic goals. Additionally, learners will be introduced to various management models, concepts, and ideas that can assist in establishing objectives for departments, projects, teams, and individual performance. Unit 704: Information Management and Strategic Decision Taking Unit code: H/506/9068 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit aims to tackle the abundance and intricacy of data and information accessible to organisations and to teach how to analyse, apply, and ascertain its value in shaping strategic decisions. Unit 705: Leading a Strategic Management Project Unit code: L/506/9065 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit will engage the learner in crafting research and methodologies to bolster a strategic management project. They will need to assess options and data sources critically before presenting the outcomes of the project. Unit 706: Strategic Direction Unit code: D/506/9068 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 The purpose of this unit is to delve into the strategic aims and objectives of an organisation and to understand their importance in defining direction, as well as gauging success and progress for the organisation. Additionally, the unit will examine how various strategic options may lead the organisation to alter its course. Unit 711: Strategic Planning Unit code: Y/506/9070 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit focuses on the significance of the strategic planning process in crafting suitable strategies and creating a plan that garners support from stakeholders and other organizational leaders. Learners will also engage in a critical evaluation of the program and its subsequent success. Unit 724: Development as a Strategic Manager Unit code: J/506/9064 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit aims to foster organizational and self-awareness in learners. It lays the groundwork for a self-critical and reflective approach to personal development, which is essential when operating strategically. Additionally, it considers broader contextual factors within the organization and the environment, recognizing their role in contributing to the overall strategic success of both the individual and the organization. Optional Units Unit 703: Finance for Managers Unit code: D/506/9071 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 The purpose of this unit is to assist learners in comprehending and applying financial information and data. This unit holds significance for learners as it aids in making informed financial decisions. Unit 708: Strategic Marketing Unit code: M/506/9074 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit will explore the foundational models, techniques, and theories that form the basis of marketing and can contribute to achieving strategic objectives. It will also give learners a critical comprehension of the marketing function within intricate organizations. Unit 710: Organisational Change Strategies Unit code: K/506/9073 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 The primary objective of this unit is to equip learners with the knowledge and skills to understand, plan, and execute organizational change effectively. While prevailing wisdom in the business world often emphasizes the need for fast, large-scale, and transformative change for corporate survival, there is evidence to suggest that many successful organizations adopt a slower and more cautious approach. Moreover, change initiatives have a reported failure rate of around 70%. This underscores the complexity of managing organizational change, making it a critical skill for successful leaders and organizations. This unit will scrutinize the evolving nature of organizations and the associated challenges they encounter. It will explore the key approaches to change management and demonstrate how these align with the various types of changes organizations undergo, particularly concerning individual, group, and organizational behaviour. Unit 712: Human Resource Planning Unit code: H/506/9072 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit will cover key considerations in planning for and acquiring a workforce capable of achieving strategic objectives. It will also examine the limitations and external factors that impact an organization's HR practices. Phase 2 - MBA Top-Up Programme Structure Dissertation (Major Project) Delivery Methods The programme comprises two phases; the first is the Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership awarded by Qualifi and delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. The School of Business and Technology London offers flexible learning methods, including online and blended learning, allowing students to choose the mode of study that suits their preferences and schedules. The program is self-paced and facilitated through an advanced Learning Management System. Students can easily interact with tutors through the SBTL Support Desk Portal System for course material discussions, guidance, assistance, and assessment feedback on assignments. School of Business and Technology London provides exceptional support and infrastructure for online and blended learning. Students benefit from dedicated tutors who guide and support them throughout their learning journey, ensuring a high level of assistance. The second phase is the MBA Top-Up, awarded and delivered 100% online by Anglia Ruskin University. At Anglia Ruskin University, you will study through Canvas, a world-class online Learning Management System (LMS), accessed from your phone, pc or tablet at home or on the move. Canvas provides instant access to study materials, forums, and support from tutors and classmates, as well as enabling easy submission of your assignments. After successfully completing your studies, you'll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony on campus at Anglia Ruskin University. If attending the ceremony in person is not possible, we'll arrange to send your certificate to you. School of Business and Technology London partners with Chestnut Education Group to promote this programme. Resources and Support School of Business & Technology London is dedicated to offering excellent support on every step of your learning journey. School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal. Our support team liaises with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receives a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and streamline all the support processes efficiently. Quality learning materials made by industry experts is a significant competitive edge of the School of Business & Technology London. Quality learning materials comprised of structured lecture notes, study guides, practical applications which includes real-world examples, and case studies that will enable you to apply your knowledge. Learning materials are provided in one of the three formats, such as PDF, PowerPoint, or Interactive Text Content on the learning portal. How does the Online Learning work at SBTL? We at SBTL follow a unique approach which differentiates us from other institutions. Indeed, we have taken distance education to a new phase where the support level is incredibly high.Now a days, convenience, flexibility and user-friendliness outweigh demands. Today, the transition from traditional classroom-based learning to online platforms is a significant result of these specifications. In this context, a crucial role played by online learning by leveraging the opportunities for convenience and easier access. It benefits the people who want to enhance their career, life and education in parallel streams. SBTL's simplified online learning facilitates an individual to progress towards the accomplishment of higher career growth without stress and dilemmas. How will you study online? With the School of Business & Technology London, you can study wherever you are. You finish your program with the utmost flexibility. You will be provided with comprehensive tutor support online through SBTL Support Desk portal. How will I get tutor support online? School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal, through which our support team liaise with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receive a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and to streamline all the support process efficiently. Learners should expect to receive a response on queries like guidance and assistance within 1 - 2 working days. However, if the support request is for assessment feedback, learners will receive the reply with feedback as per the time frame outlined in the Assessment Feedback Policy.
Getting Started With highly experienced tutors guiding the completion of an MBA, this programme fosters personal and managerial development, encouraging students to make unique contributions. The MBA programme has earned an excellent reputation among employers in private, public and voluntary sectors, enabling graduates to pursue senior positions within organisations or even continue their academic journey with a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree. For those seeking to specialise, the Research Specialisation Certificate is an optional add-on, allowing students to choose a management area of interest, such as finance, marketing, human resources, or operations and conduct in-depth research. Successful completion of the MBA Dissertation module earns students this exclusive certificate, recognised by the University and emphasises their commitment to academic research and specialised knowledge. The programme comprises two phases; the first is the Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership, awarded by Qualifi and delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. The second phase is the MBA Top Up, awarded and delivered by the University of Central Lancashire through distance learning. This programme offers the same high-quality education as its on-campus counterparts, with access to video lectures, interactive assessments and online discussion forums. Students also benefit from comprehensive support services, including academic and technical assistance and access to online resources. School of Business and Technology London partners with Chestnut Education Group to promote this programme. About Awarding Body Founded in 1828, the University of Central Lancashire is a public university based in Preston, Lancashire, England. Today, UCLAN is one of the largest in the United Kingdom, with a student and staff community of nearly 38,000. At present, the University has academic partners in all regions of the globe, and it is on a world stage that the first-class quality of its education was first recognised. In 2010, UCLAN became the first UK modern Higher Education institution to appear in the QS World University Rankings. In 2018, the Centre for World University Rankings estimated Central Lancashire to be in the top 3.7 per cent of all global universities, highlighting the growth the University has made in offering students real-world learning experiences and reflecting the University's extensive pool of academic talent. Ranked in the top 7% of universities worldwide. Student Communities from more than 100 countries WES Recognised Qualifi is a UK Government (Ofqual.gov.uk) regulated awarding organisation and has developed a reputation for supporting relevant skills in a range of job roles and industries, including Leadership, Enterprise and Management, Hospitality and catering, Health and Social Care, Business Process Outsourcing and Public Services. Qualifi is also a signatory to BIS international commitments of quality. The following are the key facts about Qualifi. Regulated by Ofqual.gov.uk World Education Services (WES) Recognised Assessment Assignments and Project No examinations Entry Requirements Applicants should normally have a good first degree or equivalent and be working in or have recently worked within business management area. If English is not your first language, you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.5 (Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification. Progression An MBA graduate can pursue a fruitful career in many industries. MBA can open career opportunities in various sectors such as banking and financial services, investment banking, management consulting, insurance, hospitality, media, information technology (IT) and marketing. An MBA is often a pathway to promotion or a career change as you will gain a professional reputation and develop essential skills in the sector you choose to pursue. Learners must request before enrolment to interchange unit(s) other than the preselected units shown in the SBTL website because we need to make sure the availability of learning materials for the requested unit(s). SBTL will reject an application if the learning materials for the requested interchange unit(s) are unavailable. Learners are not allowed to make any request to interchange unit(s) once enrolment is complete. Structure Phase 1 - Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Programme Structure To attain 120 credits, learners must complete the six compulsory units and select at least two optional units. Mandatory Units Unit 702: Manage Team Performance to Support Strategy Unit code: Y/506/9067 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit's objective is to enable learners to delve into the evaluation and enhancement of team performance to achieve strategic goals. Additionally, learners will be introduced to various management models, concepts, and ideas that can assist in establishing objectives for departments, projects, teams, and individual performance. Unit 704: Information Management and Strategic Decision Taking Unit code: H/506/9068 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit aims to tackle the abundance and intricacy of data and information accessible to organisations and to teach how to analyse, apply, and ascertain its value in shaping strategic decisions. Unit 705: Leading a Strategic Management Project Unit code: L/506/9065 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit will engage the learner in crafting research and methodologies to bolster a strategic management project. They will need to assess options and data sources critically before presenting the outcomes of the project. Unit 706: Strategic Direction Unit code: D/506/9068 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 The purpose of this unit is to delve into the strategic aims and objectives of an organisation and to understand their importance in defining direction, as well as gauging success and progress for the organisation. Additionally, the unit will examine how various strategic options may lead the organisation to alter its course. Unit 711: Strategic Planning Unit code: Y/506/9070 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit focuses on the significance of the strategic planning process in crafting suitable strategies and creating a plan that garners support from stakeholders and other organizational leaders. Learners will also engage in a critical evaluation of the program and its subsequent success. Unit 724: Development as a Strategic Manager Unit code: J/506/9064 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit aims to foster organizational and self-awareness in learners. It lays the groundwork for a self-critical and reflective approach to personal development, which is essential when operating strategically. Additionally, it considers broader contextual factors within the organization and the environment, recognizing their role in contributing to the overall strategic success of both the individual and the organization. Optional Units Unit 703: Finance for Managers Unit code: D/506/9071 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 The purpose of this unit is to assist learners in comprehending and applying financial information and data. This unit holds significance for learners as it aids in making informed financial decisions. Unit 708: Strategic Marketing Unit code: M/506/9074 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit will explore the foundational models, techniques, and theories that form the basis of marketing and can contribute to achieving strategic objectives. It will also give learners a critical comprehension of the marketing function within intricate organizations. Unit 710: Organisational Change Strategies Unit code: K/506/9073 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 The primary objective of this unit is to equip learners with the knowledge and skills to understand, plan, and execute organizational change effectively. While prevailing wisdom in the business world often emphasizes the need for fast, large-scale, and transformative change for corporate survival, there is evidence to suggest that many successful organizations adopt a slower and more cautious approach. Moreover, change initiatives have a reported failure rate of around 70%. This underscores the complexity of managing organizational change, making it a critical skill for successful leaders and organizations. This unit will scrutinize the evolving nature of organizations and the associated challenges they encounter. It will explore the key approaches to change management and demonstrate how these align with the various types of changes organizations undergo, particularly concerning individual, group, and organizational behaviour. Unit 712: Human Resource Planning Unit code: H/506/9072 TQT : 150 Credit: 15 This unit will cover key considerations in planning for and acquiring a workforce capable of achieving strategic objectives. It will also examine the limitations and external factors that impact an organization's HR practices. Phase 2 - MBA Top-Up Programme Structure Dissertation Module Delivery Methods The programme comprises two phases; the first is the Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership awarded by Qualifi and delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. The School of Business and Technology London offers flexible learning methods, including online and blended learning, allowing students to choose the mode of study that suits their preferences and schedules. The programme is self-paced and facilitated through an advanced Learning Management System. Students can easily interact with tutors through the SBTL Support Desk Portal System for course material discussions, guidance, assistance, and assessment feedback on assignments. School of Business and Technology London provides exceptional support and infrastructure for online and blended learning. Students benefit from dedicated tutors who guide and support them throughout their learning journey, ensuring a high level of assistance. The second phase is the MBA Top Up, awarded and delivered by the University of Central Lancashire through distance learning. The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) offers a range of distance learning options for students who require the flexibility to study remotely. These options include online courses, blended learning, and supported distance learning. UCLan's distance learning courses are designed to provide students with the same high-quality education as on-campus courses, with access to resources such as video lectures, online discussion forums, and interactive assessments. The University also provides a range of support services for distance learning students, including academic support, technical support, and access to the University's library and online resources. Resources and Support School of Business & Technology London is dedicated to offering excellent support on every step of your learning journey. School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal. Our support team liaises with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receives a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and streamline all the support processes efficiently. Quality learning materials made by industry experts is a significant competitive edge of the School of Business & Technology London. Quality learning materials comprised of structured lecture notes, study guides, practical applications which includes real-world examples, and case studies that will enable you to apply your knowledge. Learning materials are provided in one of the three formats, such as PDF, PowerPoint, or Interactive Text Content on the learning portal. How does the Online Learning work at SBTL? We at SBTL follow a unique approach which differentiates us from other institutions. Indeed, we have taken distance education to a new phase where the support level is incredibly high.Now a days, convenience, flexibility and user-friendliness outweigh demands. Today, the transition from traditional classroom-based learning to online platforms is a significant result of these specifications. In this context, a crucial role played by online learning by leveraging the opportunities for convenience and easier access. It benefits the people who want to enhance their career, life and education in parallel streams. SBTL's simplified online learning facilitates an individual to progress towards the accomplishment of higher career growth without stress and dilemmas. How will you study online? With the School of Business & Technology London, you can study wherever you are. You finish your program with the utmost flexibility. You will be provided with comprehensive tutor support online through SBTL Support Desk portal. How will I get tutor support online? School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal, through which our support team liaise with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receive a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and to streamline all the support process efficiently. Learners should expect to receive a response on queries like guidance and assistance within 1 - 2 working days. However, if the support request is for assessment feedback, learners will receive the reply with feedback as per the time frame outlined in the Assessment Feedback Policy.
Increasing sales is the core of objective for all salespeople and it is vital they are given the tools and techniques to thrive in this highly competitive environment. The landscape within which salespeople operate is ever shifting, and now more than ever it is recognised that the key to successful selling is understanding the customer's needs and working collaboratively with them to achieve their objectives. This highly practical programme has been developed to support salespeople to develop their all-round sales skills using a customer-focused approach. The course will be fun and informal, using practical exercises to help new and experienced salespeople ensure they are equipped to deal with the challenges of selling. This course will help participants: Develop core sales skills such as building rapport, questioning and presenting benefits Identify the roles and goals of key contacts and recognize the importance of consultative selling Understand how to achieve sales by uncovering needs, matching benefits and promoting value Understand how to structure and control a customer interaction and set clear objectives for each account Develop techniques for handling objections, questions and staying positive Master the art of closing a sale and gaining agreement Understand tactical selling and how to build multiple contacts and relationships Develop skill and confidence in selling to both new prospects and existing customers 1 Consultative selling - key principles for success Recognise the importance of consultative selling and being client-focused Build the right processes to achieving sales targets - questions before features Assess your core sales skills; building rapport, asking questions, presenting features and benefits, closing 2 Consultative sales call skills How best to structure and control a customer meeting or call to be client-centric: Four Cs The importance of setting clear objectives for each call and account Setting the agenda and pre-call preparation Planning sessions 3 Your mission, message and meaning - comparative advantage Defining sales messages and USPs; positioning value and quality not price Knowing your target product and services and their value to the customer Understanding your customers buying role and qualifying the opportunity 4 An effective sales meeting - part 1 Opening the sales interview - and building rapport Gaining and retaining the full attention of the customer Probing and identifying real needs using effective sales questions Planning and practice sessions for consultative selling 5 An effective sales meeting - part 2 Matching customer needs and wants to products and services available Presenting your product or service using features, advantages, and benefits Recognising and responding to buying signals and other sales opportunities Planning and practice sessions 6 Closing the sale successfully Anticipating objections and seeing them as positives, including price objections Handling objections using proven methods and models How and when to ask for the sale professionally Follow up and follow-through Planning and practice sessions
The work of a technical team is invariably challenging and often unpredictable. Definition of the work can be problematic, timescales can be hard to estimate and the right technical approach difficult to select. Staff involved in this type of work usually have very high levels of specialist knowledge in their field and have high expectations of those who lead them. In addition to the challenges of the work, the team leader often has to balance the need for professional excellence with financial and commercial considerations and to ensure that team goals are realistic by being an effective negotiator with other project and senior managers. These characteristics make technical team leadership a demanding and complex activity. This programme aims to help participants develop the skills needed to become an effective technical team leader. The objectives of this programme are to help participants: understand the significance of leadership skills and their impact on team performance review the key skills needed to be an effective, 'multi-dimensional' team leader and learn how to develop, adapt and apply them in practice learn how to identify the preferred leadership style for the context and organisational culture and how to develop personal style versatility understand the role of the project leader in building an effective team and the skills required to promote and sustain team performance gain a better understanding of the interpersonal skills needed to motivate individual team members and harness the full potential of the team DAY ONE 1 Technical teams and leadership What is a leader? How much can leadership be learned? The team environment and the impact of leadership skills The characteristics of high performance teams and their leaders Some useful models and theories of leadership explored Types of leadership; choosing how to use leadership power Evaluating personal leadership style; how to develop style flexibility 2 Essential skills for team leaders 3 key dimensions of effective leadership: inwards, outwards and upwards Developing and promoting a 'team vision': strategic thinking skills The vital role of communication skills and how to develop them Understanding others; emotional intelligence skills Being a visible leader; behavioural and influencing skills Building effective relationships; the importance of trust and respect DAY TWO 3 Leading inwards to build the team The role of leadership in developing team performance Understanding individuals in the team; recognising team role preferences Managing conflict and promoting positive team dynamics Setting standards, maintaining discipline and rewarding performance Harnessing team potential: building motivation within the team Promoting team learning; the team leader as coach / mentor 4 Leading outwards and upwards to support the team Negotiating realistic team goals; effective influencing skills Gaining empowerment and support from the key stakeholders Leading upwards: knowing when and how to take the initiative Building team credibility within the organisation; helping the team deliver Becoming an effective team player in leadership teams Building and maintaining rapport with influential stakeholders
In today's competitive business world firms are under unprecedented pressure to deliver value to their shareholders and other key stakeholders. Senior executives in all parts of the organisation are finding that they need some degree of financial know how to cope with the responsibility placed on them as business managers and key decision-makers; monitoring and improving business performance, investing in capital projects, mergers and acquisitions: all require some degree of financial knowledge. The key financial skills are not as difficult to learn as many people believe and in the hands of an experienced senior executive they can provide a formidable competitive advantage. After completing this course delegates will be able to: Understand fundamental business finance concepts; understand, analyse and interpret financial statements: Profit Statement, Balance Sheet and Cashflow Statement Understand the vital difference between profit and cashflow; identify the key components of working capital and how they can be managed to generate strong cashflow Evaluate pricing decisions based on an understanding of the nature of business costs and their impact on gross margin and break-even sales; managing pricing, discounts and costs to generate strong business profits; understand how lean manufacturing methods improve profit Use powerful analytical tools to measure and improve the performance of their own company and assess the effectiveness of their competitors Apply and interpret techniques for assessing and comparing investment opportunities in capital projects, business acquisitions and other ventures; understand and apply common methods of business valuation Understand the role of business finance in formulating and implementing competitive business strategy; the role of budgeting as part of the planning process and the various approaches to budgeting and performance measurement 1 Basic principles Delivering value to key stakeholders Accounting concepts, GAAP, IFRS and common terms Understanding and using the balance sheet Understanding and using the profit statement Recognising the vital difference between profit and cashflow Understanding and using the cashflow statement What financial statements can and cannot tell us 2 Managing and improving cashflow Sources of finance and their advantages and disadvantages What is working capital and why is it so important? Managing stocks, debtors and creditors Understanding how working capital drives business growth Understanding and avoiding the over-trading trap Unlocking the funds tied up in fixed assets: asset backed loans and leasing 3 Managing and improving profit Understanding how profits generate cashflow The fundamental nature of costs: fixed and variable business costs Understanding gross margin and break-even How common pricing methods affect gross margin and profit Effective strategies to improve gross margin Using value chain analysis to reduce costs Lean manufacturing methodsUnderstanding Just-in-time, 6 Sigma and Kaizen methods Improving profitEffective and defective strategies 4 Measuring and managing business performance Measures of financial performance and strength Investor behaviour: the risk and reward relationship Return on investment (ROI): the ultimate measure of business performance How profit margin and net asset turnover drive return on net assets Why some companies are more profitable that others Understanding competitive advantage: cost and differentiation advantage Why great companies failWhat happened to Kodak? Using a 'Pyramid of Ratios' to improve business performance Using Critical Success Factors to develop Key Performance Indicators 5 Budgeting and forecasting methods Using budgets to support strategy Objectives and methods for effective budgets Using budgets to monitor and manage business performance Alternative approaches to budgeting Developing and implementing Balanced Scorecards Beyond Budgeting Forecasting methods and techniques Identifying key business drivers Using rolling forecasts and 'what-if' models to aid decision-making
At some point in your life you will have attended a training course or workshop, but what happens when you are asked to deliver one? Some people relish the opportunity while others are challenged by it. Whatever you feel about training others, it is a skill that is admired and can be studied and learned. With the trainer you will be learning the techniques, skills and understanding you need and you will have the chance to deliver a short training session to others, receive feedback and having the confidence to deliver it for real in your job. The training will comprise one day followed by a half day when all those able to attend will deliver and have feedback on a 20 minute training activity. To be able to create and maintain an environment conducive to learning and engagement To understand basic learning theory and practice and the difference between training, facilitating and learning To understand how adults learn and how to apply it as a trainer To be able to plan and deliver a training activity using the appropriate set of skills and behaviours To be able to review and evaluate learning and identify how outcomes are met To manage the learning process and the participant engagement in the training environment To be able to present effectively and appropriately to a variety of audiences To deliver and receive feedback on a short delivered training activity with peers To review and evaluate learning and have an action plan to take back and put into practice DAY ONE (full-day) 1 Welcome, housekeeping, how the day will be run Introductions (and making the most of them) Warm up - breaking the ice followed by review and feedback Creating an environment conducive to learning and engagement; managing expectations well as a trainer Group task with feedback and review in plenary 2 What is training and how do adults learn? Trainer input: David Kolb's Learning Cycle Group tasks 3 How to plan a session and what to include - trainer input Starting at the end and working backwards Linking outcomes to purposeful activities Practice task and planning time for day two using a template 4 The skills and behaviours of a brilliant trainer Modelling skills and behaviours Creative task and discussion 5 Mini reviewing task De-brief - using reviewing in training 6 How to manage the process Trainer input followed by practice Paying conscious attention to language (verbal and non verbal), feelings and responses in the room and managing yourself as a trainer 7 The trainer's toolkit #1 Key tools, materials and templates Choosing different tools and approaches with different audiences Know your audience 8 The trainer's toolkit #2 Key tools, materials and templates continued Addressing trainer good practice 9 Review, evaluation and action planning activities Why and what should we be evaluating and why it's important Action planning task Group review task DAY TWO (half-day) The day will comprise a series of 30 minute timed sessions where each delegate will present and deliver a training activity with the group. The training activity will be prepared and planned in advance and will take 20 minutes (+ or - 2 minutes) to deliver in real time. This will be followed by review and feedback from the trainer and peers to complete the total of 30 minutes as a time slot. Reiteration of the task and discussion can take place with the trainer if needed, and there is time included in Day One to support the training planning.
The leadership role of the project manager is increasingly recognised as a key determinant in delivering success. These skills can often be critical in project situations, where tight budgets and deadlines demand the highest levels of team performance and where the working environment presents fresh challenges on a daily basis. This programme focuses on the leadership skills required of project managers and will benefit anyone involved in managing projects large or small wishing to extend or enhance those skills. The objectives of this programme are to help the participants: Understand the significance of leadership skills to the project manager and the impact of these skills on project performance Review the key skills needed to be an effective 'multi-dimensional' project leader and learn how to develop, adapt and apply them in practice Learn how to identify the preferred leadership style for the context and organisational culture of a project and how to develop personal style versatility Understand the role of the project leader in building an effective team and the skills required to promote and sustain team performance Gain a better understanding of the interpersonal skills needed to motivate individual team members and harness the full potential of the team DAY ONE 1 Introduction Aims and objectives Personal objectives 2 Project management and leadership What is a leader? How much can leadership be learned? The project environment and the impact of leadership skills The characteristics of high performance project teams and their leaders 3 Principles of effective leadership Some useful models and theories of leadership explored Types of leadership; choosing how to use leadership power Evaluating personal leadership style; how to develop style flexibility 4 Syndicate case study: Leadership in action Review of the role of leadership in a contemporary project Feedback and plenary discussion: effective project leadership 5 Team exercise: Leadership skills of the project manager Teams compete in performing a project simulation Project review and feedback Discussion of the outcome: role and skills of the project leader 6 Leadership skills for project managers The 3 dimensions of project leadership: inwards, outwards, and upwards The vital role of communication skills and how to develop them Developing a 'project vision': strategic thinking skills Understanding others; emotional intelligence skills Being a visible leader; behavioural and influencing skills Building effective relationships; the importance of trust and respect DAY TWO 7 Leading the project team The role of leadership in developing team performance Understanding individual strengths; recognising team role preferences Managing conflict and promoting positive team dynamics Setting standards, maintaining discipline and rewarding performance Harnessing team potential: building motivation within the team Promoting team learning; the team leader as coach / mentor 8 Leading through the organisation Gaining the support others; developing effective influencing skills Getting empowerment from key stakeholders Knowing when and how to take the initiative and lead Building and maintaining rapport with key partners Becoming an effective team player in leadership teams Becoming a business leader; leading colleagues and co-workers 9 Team exercise: Leadership and negotiation Teams engage in a negotiation exercise Exercise review and feedback Discussion of the outcome: negotiation skills of the project leader 10 Negotiation skills for project leaders Characteristics of effective negotiators Classic problem behaviours and mind-sets to avoid Getting to win-win; building partnership and trust 11 Leading more senior stakeholders The challenges and skills of leading and managing upwards Communicating with more senior stakeholders; building credibility Negotiating upwards: knowing when and how The role of networking skills; building and maintaining rapport Handling disagreements; the art of diplomacy Handling personality and style conflicts with more senior people
R&D work is often carried out in entrepreneurial companies with the aim of developing solutions to scientific or technological problems for a wide range of customers. Projects can include longer term 'frontiers of science' research, medium term product development/manufacturing or more immediate troubleshooting or contract research assignments. In all these contexts, the ability to create innovative solutions in a timely and cost-effective manner is the essence of successful R&D. Whilst R&D groups typically excel in technical expertise, those involved often recognise that there is scope for improving the way that projects are managed. The aim of this training programme is to address this need whilst ensuring that the creative, entrepreneurial spirit that is fundamental to good R&D continues to flourish. MODULE 1: Creating the foundations for success Off-line video tutorials and exercises Total time ~ 1 - 1.5 hours Video 1: Making the most of project management in R&D Characterising R&D projects Applying project management to R&D work Exploiting the potential of project management in R&D Video 2: Promoting success in R&D project management Modelling successful project management Evaluating performance and promoting success The role and skills of the project manager/leader MODULE 2: Initiating and defining R&D projects Live interactive sessions (via Zoom): Session 1: 10:00 - 12:00 Session 2: 14:00 - 15:30 Session 1: Selecting and initiating projects Recognising worthwhile opportunities; initiating projects Identifying stakeholders and their goals Characterising and engaging stakeholders Session 2: Defining goals and agreeing deliverables Establishing the full scope of the project Clarifying and prioritising project deliverables Defining and agreeing deliverable specifications MODULE 3: Planning R&D projects Live interactive sessions (via Zoom): Session 1: 10:00 - 12:00 Session 2: 14:00 - 15:30 Session 1: Identifying and organising activities Creating effective plans; avoiding planning pitfalls Identifying tasks and assigning responsibilities Sequencing tasks and estimating durations Session 2: Developing the timeline and resource plan Identifying the 'critical path'; creating a resource plan Dealing with estimating uncertainty Accelerating the programme MODULE 4: Leadership and teamwork in R&D projects Off-line video tutorials and exercises Total time ~ 1 - 1.5 hours Video 1: Working effectively in project teams Building teamwork in contemporary organisations Recognising each other's skills; building synergy Building good working relationships; handling conflict Video 2: The role of the R&D project team leader Building teamwork: the role of leadership Creating an effective team culture Delegating work and motivating team members MODULE 5: Managing uncertainty in R&D projects Live interactive sessions (via Zoom): Session 1: 10:00 - 12:00 Session 2: 14:00 - 15:30 Session 1: Characterising uncertainty; identifying risks Exploring uncertainty; applying risk management Focusing the risk management process Identifying and defining risk events Session 2: Managing and controlling risks to the project Evaluating risk events Selecting between risk strategies; setting contingencies Updating and controlling exposure to risk MODULE 6: Implementing and controlling R&D projects Live interactive sessions (via Zoom): Session 1: 10:00 - 12:00 Session 2: 14:00 - 15:30 Session 1: Initiating assignments and managing changes Creating a pro-active implementation and control culture Establishing effective implementation and control procedures Assigning work and managing changes Session 2: Monitoring, managing and developing performance Adopting meaningful monitoring techniques Responding to problems; building performance Managing and controlling multiple project assignments
Generating new leads and new business can be both time-consuming and frustrating. It's not easy - it takes skill, careful preparation and the creation of effective models and methods, even perhaps using formal approaches and scripts. Once generated, a new lead or enquiry must also be carefully managed to maximise the potential revenue it can generate. But it's crucial to get it right. If your company can afford not to worry about getting new business - congratulations! If your company is completely confident that it is performing at peak potential in generating new leads - again, congratulations! But if your company is working in the real world, couldn't your team do with some help, to become even just that little bit more effective, to make the process just that little less painful? This highly practical, intensive workshop gives sales teams the proven strategies and tactics they need to build a sustainable new business pipeline. This course will help participants: Develop a clear and consistent process for new business development and lead-generation Master the secret of effective new business development and lead-generation - 'only sell the appointment or next stage of the sales process, not your product or service' Set and achieve the right level of new business development and lead-generation activity to achieve your personal and organisational sales goals Apply the key principles of effective prospecting and pipeline management using a proven toolkit and approach Overcome the most common 'put-offs' when conducting telephone or face-to-face business-development and lead-generation activities Develop an engaging telephone voice and manner - and a 'networking personality' Qualify potential opportunities with more accuracy on a consistent basis Prioritise opportunities and manage their time when sourcing new business Discover online sources of leads, contacts and referrals Overcome psychological blocks to cold or warm calling - theirs and the client's Identify potential prospects - and decision-makers and influencers within target prospects - with greater accuracy Make outbound sales or appointment calls with improved confidence, control and results Improve the conversion of calls to appointments by using more effective questions and sales messages Get past gatekeepers and assistants more effectively Make the most of your CRM software and systems 1 Online marketing - what works! Workshop overview and learning objectives Choosing your social media channels LinkedIn for sales and marketing Designing and implementing an effective new business email campaign online Creating a lead-generation strategy online - with case studies Avoiding common mistakes in social media marketing Case study: 'Best practice in social media sales and marketing' Using blogs and video-based marketing (eg, YouTube) New trends and how to keep your finger on the 'social media' pulse Twenty essential websites and online marketing tools 2 Making appointments by telephone Planning the call, telephone techniques, integrating with email and online marketing Developing a clear and consistent process to appointment-making Setting and achieving the right level of telephone activity to achieve your appointment goals Applying the key principles of effective prospecting and pipeline management generation, using a proven toolkit and approach Overcoming the most common 'put-offs' to seeing or engaging with you Overcoming psychological blocks to cold or warm calling - yours and the client's Identifying potential prospects - and decision-makers and influencers within target prospects - with greater accuracy Making outbound sales or appointment calls with improved confidence, control and results Improving conversion of calls to appointments by using more effective questions and sales messages The five keys to developing an engaging telephone voice and approaching manner 3 Power networking Strategies for networking and B2B referral-based marketing The importance, and different types, of networking How to work a room - preparation and strategy Communication dynamics in networking - the power of the listening networker Assumptions when networking Business networking etiquette Making connections, asking for cards, contact details and referrals, gaining follow-up commitments Building relationships - follow-up and follow-through 4 Developing new leads Strategies for first-time sales calls Gaining rapport and opening first-time and new business sales calls effectively Advanced consultative selling - questioning techniques to quickly and efficiently uncover opportunities, need areas and preferences Presenting your solution to a new or first-time customer - creating an enthusiastic and compelling personalised and persuasive summary of your proposal Value message - differentiate your solutions clearly and accurately, with tailored value statements Presenting the right initial USPs, features and benefits and making them relevant and real to the customer Smart ways to position price, emphasise value and be a strong player without being the cheapest or leading on price Learn and use advanced techniques to determine customer needs, value and decision-making criteria in depth on a first-time call 5 Organised persistence - CRM and prospect-tracking Organised persistence - sales tracking, following up on 'sleeping' customers, gaining referrals, time and territory management Maintaining a good database for maximising new business ROI Developing a contact strategy with different types and levels of contact Analysing your contact base using state-of-the-art software and tools Making the most of your CRM systems and solutions Understanding that your attitude makes a difference when sourcing new business Setting SMART objectives for new business development and lead-generation Practical exercise - setting personal development and business goals Time management tips to improve daily productivity New business pipeline management strategies for peak sales performance 6 Workshop summary and close Practical exercise - developing your new business action plan Review and feedback
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the most disruptive technology since the internet came onto the scene. AI is transforming every aspect of how we manage projects from developing a business case, to planning the work, managing risk, and tracking performance. Because the technology and market are moving so fast, it can be difficult to know how to start using AI on projects. Generative AI for Project Management will engage you with diverse Generative AI tools to start, plan, and manage either your own project or a generic case study. We will embrace a tool agnostic approach to adopting, integrating, and scaling Generative AI without compromising data or trust. You will have hands-on practice utilizing AI tools to optimize your time and your outcomes. You will be accessing a variety of AI tools requiring you to register for a free account. A computer is required for all traditional classroom deliveries. None At the end of this program, you will be able to: Define essential terms and concepts related to artificial intelligence (AI) Illustrate how prompts facilitate interaction with Generative AI Recognize the capabilities of Large Language Models Craft prompts to develop project origination documents Create prompts to assist in planning a project Develop user stories with Generative AI Analyze project performance using Generative AI Identify the limitations of Generative AI Identify the risks associated with using Generative AI Articulate the need for governance and ethics when establishing an AI program in an organization Course Overview Getting Started Foundation Concepts Understanding essential terms and concepts related to AI Exploring various Generative AI Models Understanding Prompts Creating Prompts for Project Startup Prompts for starting a project Prompts for planning a project Best Practices for prompt engineering Creating Prompts for Managing Projects Creating agile user stories Measuring project performance Analyzing a schedule Using Generative AI Responsibly Limitations of AI Models Establishing an AI governance framework Future trends and next steps Summary and Next Steps