397 Courses

Session 8 A cheeky free extra. Editing, making revisions, getting feedback, reflecting on story and writing, setting goals and providing your own accountability, next steps.

This one-day workshop is designed to help users work with advanced features within Word. It includes hands-on exercises to help make complex documents more manageable. Participants will learn how to share and collaborate on documents and track document changes. This course will help participants: Add document links to files, websites, bookmarks and headings Create and revise footnotes and endnotes Use cross-referencing Insert and mark a document index Use comments within a document Create and edit document templates Set up picture and table captioning Work with tracked changes, including viewing, accepting and rejecting changes Use tables of contents Transfer styles across files using styles organiser Protect and restrict the opening and editing of documents Work with document themes Work with subdocuments Use ribbon buttons and groups 1 Adding document links Adding links to a document Linking to files, websites and email Adding and linking to bookmarks Linking to document headings 2 Captioning and cross-referencing Inserting picture and table captions Creating and updating a table of figures Adding and revising endnotes and footnotes Understanding cross-reference types Creating a cross-reference Marking and inserting a document index 3 Collaborating on documents Inserting and viewing documents Navigating through comments Replying to a comment Printing comments 4 Tracking changes Using tracking changes within a document Choosing how to view document revisions Accepting and rejecting changes 5 Comparing documents Comparing two documents Combining changes into a single document Accepting and rejecting changes 6 Protecting a document Restricting opening or editing of documents Defining regions for editing Restricting document formatting 7 Outline view Collapsing paragraphs with heading styles Managing files with subdocuments Editing and locking subdocuments Sharing subdocuments 8 Document themes Standardise document formatting with themes Using a theme to match corporate branding Transferring themes across files 9 Creating templates Creating and editing document templates Adding font and heading styles to templates Defining file locations for shared templates Copying styles across templates and files 10 Customising the ribbon Customising ribbon buttons Adding new ribbons Adding buttons to ribbon groups

This intensive one-day training programme has been developed to help those involved in producing specifications create high quality documents in an organised and effective way. The programme explains the primary purpose of specifications and the importance of understanding the context in which they are used. It focuses particularly on how to develop and structure content and write requirements that are clear and concise. The methods and techniques presented will provide a practical foundation course for those new to the topic whilst offering new insights to those with more experience. The objectives of the workshop are to: Review and discuss the role and purpose of specifications Present a structured approach for organising and producing specifications Explain each of the key steps involved in creating effective specifications Review some methods for assisting in defining requirements Explain how to define the scope and develop the structure for a specification Present methods to assist the writing and editing of specifications Review how specifications should be issued and controlled 1 Introduction Course objectives Review of participants' needs and objectives 2 Specifications in perspective The role and purpose of specifications The impact of specifications on commercial performance The qualities of an effective specification The five key steps of 'POWER' writing: prepare-organise-write-edit-release 3 Step 1: Preparing to write Defining the purpose the specification; integrating the specification and contract Deciding how to specify: when to specify in functional and technical terms Getting the right people involved at the right time; engaging stakeholders Applying procedures for writing, issuing and controlling specifications 4 Step 2: Organising the specification content Scoping the document: scope maps, check lists, structured brainstorming Clarifying requirements; separating needs and desires Dealing with requirements that are difficult to quantify Useful techniques: cost benefit analysis, Pareto analysis Deciding what goes where; typical contents and layout for a specification Creating and using model forms: typical sections and sub sections 5 Step 3: Writing the specification Identifying and understanding the readers needs Choosing and using the right words; dealing with jargon Important words; will, shall, must; 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 6 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 7 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 8 Course review and action planning What actions should be implemented to improve specifications? Conclusion

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

Session 0: Intro A quick, free, intro to the course so you know what you’re getting into! Includes couple of writing exercises to get you going.

Construction in New York City comes with a unique set of financial challenges, and labor and material costs are at the top of the list. From unionized workers to specialty materials transported through dense urban environments, these factors can dramatically affect how estimates are calculated. Understanding their impact is crucial whether you're planning a small renovation or a major commercial build. 1. NYC Labor Costs: Skilled, Specialized, and Expensive Labor in NYC is known for being highly skilled—but also highly priced. Many projects require union labor, which involves higher wages, benefits, and strict work schedules. Additionally, local safety laws often require extra personnel, such as flaggers and site safety managers, further inflating labor costs. This complexity is one reason many developers and contractors turn to New York construction estimating services. These professionals understand the nuances of NYC labor markets and can produce accurate cost forecasts based on current wage trends, union agreements, and job classifications. 2. Material Costs in an Urban Environment Material costs in New York City are consistently higher than the national average. Factors such as limited storage, transportation difficulties, and regional price markups all contribute to the inflated expense. In some boroughs, staging areas are so limited that materials must be delivered just-in-time, increasing logistics costs. Additionally, certain high-end projects require custom or imported finishes, further complicating material cost estimates. Estimators must consider not just the price of materials but also the cost to transport, handle, and install them in a tightly regulated environment. 3. How Labor and Materials Affect Plumbing Costs Plumbing is a prime example of how labor and material costs intersect in NYC. With strict plumbing codes and the need for licensed professionals, the costs can rise quickly. For anyone wondering how to estimate plumbing works, it’s essential to factor in both the skilled labor required and the materials—many of which must meet specific city-mandated standards. Even minor plumbing revisions can have a ripple effect on project costs. For example, rerouting pipes in a high-rise building often requires extensive planning, permits, and cooperation with multiple trades. This level of complexity makes accurate plumbing estimates a must for keeping projects on budget. 4. Why Professional Estimating Services Matter Given these variables, relying on professional New York construction estimating services can be a smart investment. These services use advanced software, up-to-date local data, and firsthand industry knowledge to provide highly detailed and location-specific cost assessments. They help prevent underbidding, overpaying, or encountering surprise costs that could stall a project. Conclusion Labor and material costs in NYC are some of the most influential factors in construction budgeting. By understanding their impact—and by learning how to estimate plumbing works and other trades accurately—you can better manage project risks and maintain financial control. Whether you're a contractor or a property owner, partnering with trusted New York construction estimating services ensures you're building on solid financial ground.

Have you ever worried about accidentally using someone else's work in your PowerPoint presentations without proper attribution? Or maybe you want to ensure your academic or professional slides are original and free of plagiarism. Maintaining originality is crucial in both academic and professional settings, and that's where free plagiarism checkers for PowerPoint come to the rescue. These tools help you ensure that your presentations are authentic and that all sources are correctly cited. What is a Plagiarism Checker for PowerPoint? A plagiarism checker for PowerPoint is a digital tool designed to scan the content of your slides for any instances of plagiarism. It compares your text, images, and other content against a vast database of sources to identify any potential matches. These tools use algorithms and extensive databases of web pages, academic papers, and other published content to identify similarities between your presentation and existing sources. Advanced tools may also use artificial intelligence to detect paraphrased content that still closely resembles the original source. Why Use Free Plagiarism Checkers for PowerPoint? Not everyone has the budget for premium plagiarism detection software. Free tools offer a cost-effective solution for students, educators, and professionals who need to ensure their work is original. Most free plagiarism checkers are available online and can be used directly from your browser, without needing any downloads or installations. This makes them a convenient option for quick checks, whether you're at home, at work, or on the go. Features to Look for in a Plagiarism Checker for PowerPoint The most important feature of a plagiarism checker is its ability to accurately detect copied content. Look for tools with high detection rates and comprehensive databases. A good plagiarism checker should be easy to use, with a simple interface that allows you to quickly upload your PowerPoint files and get results without hassle. Consider whether the plagiarism checker integrates with other platforms you use, such as Microsoft Office, Google Drive, or cloud storage services. Some plagiarism checkers offer customization options, such as choosing the database they scan against or adjusting the sensitivity of the checker. These features can be useful if you have specific needs, like checking against academic databases or avoiding self-plagiarism. How to Use Online Plagiarism Checkers for PowerPoint Effectively Start with the best possible version of your PowerPoint presentation. Ensure that all quotes, data, and images are correctly cited before running the plagiarism check. After running your presentation through the plagiarism checker, carefully review the report. Check any flagged content and make necessary revisions to ensure your work is original and properly attributed. Once you've addressed any potential issues, make a final pass through your presentation to refine your slides and ensure clarity and originality. Benefits of Using Plagiarism Checkers Using plagiarism checkers helps maintain academic integrity by ensuring your work is original and that all sources are properly cited, which is crucial for students and researchers. In the professional world, originality is key. Plagiarism checkers help ensure that your presentations reflect your own work and ideas, boosting your credibility. Plagiarism checkers save you time by quickly identifying potential issues, allowing you to focus on refining your content instead of manually checking for plagiarism. Potential Drawbacks of Free Plagiarism Checkers Free plagiarism checkers may have limitations in their databases, potentially missing some sources or failing to detect more sophisticated forms of plagiarism, like paraphrasing. Uploading your PowerPoint presentations to online tools may raise privacy concerns, especially if they contain sensitive or proprietary information. Always ensure the tool you use has a robust privacy policy. Relying too heavily on plagiarism checkers can reduce your vigilance in ensuring originality. It's essential to balance using these tools with your own checks and citations. Plagiarism Checker Tools for Different Needs For academic purposes, tools like MyAssignmentHelp's plagiarism checker offer advanced features tailored to academic writing, ensuring your research is properly cited and free of plagiarism. Professionals can benefit from plagiarism checkers that provide comprehensive scanning and detailed reports, helping to maintain a high standard of originality in corporate presentations. For casual or personal presentations, simpler tools may suffice, offering basic checks to ensure your slides are free from unintentional plagiarism. The Future of Plagiarism Checking Technology Advances in AI and machine learning are continually improving the capabilities of plagiarism checkers, making them more accurate and user-friendly. Future developments may include better integration with presentation software, real-time scanning features, and enhanced support for multimedia content in presentations. Conclusion In today's digital age, ensuring originality in your PowerPoint presentations is more important than ever. Free plagiarism checkers provide a valuable service, helping you maintain academic and professional integrity. While they have their limitations, their benefits make them an essential tool for anyone creating presentations. FAQs Free plagiarism checkers are generally reliable for basic checks, but they may not catch all instances of plagiarism or offer as detailed feedback as premium versions. While plagiarism checkers are a helpful aid, they cannot replace the need for manual citation and proper attribution. Always review and cite your sources carefully. Most reputable plagiarism checkers, like MyAssignmentHelp, have privacy policies in place to protect user data. However, it's always wise to avoid uploading sensitive or confidential presentations to online tools. Some plagiarism checkers offer limited support for multimedia content, such as images and videos. However, text-based content remains their primary focus. Yes, tools like MyAssignmentHelp's plagiarism checker offer features tailored to academic presentations, helping you ensure your slides are original and properly cited.