West Coast New Zealand

How to Work Smarter, Not Harder

Presented by Craig Rust

Too many small business owners work harder and harder with an understanding that the business is developing and growing.  Is this the case or are we spending time doing things that don’t really count?  This practical course will focus on the key drivers in your business and determine the business systems and processes you need to develop and implement to create an efficient and effective business.  By implementing these solutions into your business you will gain more control and be in a position to work smarter not harder.

Examples of topics covered in the workshop include:

• What makes up my business – what do we do that counts
• Understanding and measuring the key processes in your business
• Measuring business performance through key performance indicators
• A structured approach to process improvement
• Common pitfalls: when things get worse rather than better
• Applying your new knowledge to your business

Computer Applications for Growth

Presented by Geof Franks

Have you thought about employing your computer to do more business? Early personal computers were viewed as toys for consumers and were ignored by businesses – until a 'killer application' came along that made computers an essential business tool.

This interactive demonstration is designed principally to expose small business owners and operators to the power of computer applications, and how easy they are to use. You won’t necessarily be taught all the keys to push, but you will gain an understanding of what your computer could be doing for you.

If you have a business computer and wondered if you could do more with it, then this workshop is for you.

• Word processing: print mailing labels and prepare newsletters
• Spreadsheets: manage your business finances and create budgets and forecasts
• Databases: organise customer information, find records that meet specific criteria, and print mail merge letters
• Presentations: prepare slide shows to show off your products and services
• Accounting software: discover how easy it is to do your own book-keeping
• Calendars: manage your diary and appointments
• E-commerce: use the internet to reduce business costs, and to buy and sell online without your own website
• Ten tips to get you started.