Spoce

SPOCE runs a licensing programme on a global basis, providing organisations with a quick route to market in the OGC best practice accredited training arena. SPOCE's proven record has seen licensing Worldwide, with partners in England, Scotland, Holland, Denmark (spoce.dk), Poland, Italy, South Africa (spoce.za) and Australia.  In addition to a number of resellers and licensees, SPOCE currently have over 25 Affiliates registered with the accrediting body APM Group.

There are three options for offering accredited training in the OGC Best Practice methods:

• Reseller - This is basically an arrangement for an organisation to sell SPOCE training products and claim a commission for each sale.  Under no circumstances can a Reseller advertise to run their own training events or sell their own training products.
• Affiliate -This option is ideal for companies wishing to gain a quick route to market. An Affiliate may use the required trade marks (i.e. PRINCE2™, MSP, M_o_R, ITIL) in marketing materials and advertise training events under their own banner. However, it must be stated at all times that the training is run in association with SPOCE. All examinations must be purchased through SPOCE, and all training events must be run in accordance with the SPOCE quality system. Affiliates must use the SPOCE material, which can be produced by the Affiliate. The Affiliate can also enter into arrangements directly with APMG Approved Trainer, provided that the trainer is familiarised on SPOCE's materials. SPOCE can also provide Approved Trainers for training events run the Affiliate.
• ATO Licensee - To offer accredited training in the OGC best practice methods, it is required that organisations are either an Affiliate of an existing Accredited Training Organisation (ATO), or are an ATO in their own right.  To become an ATO, you need accredited training materials approved by the APM Group (APMG). SPOCE's accredited materials are available under a license arrangement to meet this requirement of the APM Group. You will also need to develop a Quality Manual and Procedures based on the APM Group's required standards. At least one trainer (preferably two) must also be identified.
  
  Whatever route is taken, all partners are supported by SPOCE's established international network. If you would like further details on becoming a Reseller, Affiliate or ATO Licensee with SPOCE, then please write to Greg Walker (greg@spoce.com) with the following details.
  

• A short background of your organisation
• Current and expected revenues
• Industry sectors of your client base
• Geographical business arena
• Routes to market

SPOCE, the leading provider of PRINCE2 training, is offering seminars in Birmingham this month, in a bid to help delegates get a thorough overview of PRINCE2 2009 and Managing Successful Programmes (MSP).

The seminars, both of which will be held on Wednesday 16th September at the Britannia Hotel on New Street in Birmingham, will analyse the training methods, providing a thorough introduction into each methods, the kinds of qualifications and training solutions that these methods can lead to, in addition to question and answer sessions from experts at SPOCE.

Paul Bradley, the firm's managing director, said, "I will be presenting the PRINCE2 Seminar, which will aim to provide an excellent introduction to the method and will include a walk through the Principles, Processes and Themes of PRINCE2, which was, of course, updated earlier this year. My colleague, Greg Walker, who is a lead trainer at SPOCE, will host the MSP seminar, which has been specifically designed for companies and individuals requiring an overview of the MSP method."

The firm is also currently offering both seminars at the exclusive price of £99 per delegate (excluding VAT), otherwise costing £65 per seminar. More information can be found here: http://www.spoce.co.uk/prince2/other-prince2-courses/prince2-2009-and-msp-seminar.aspx.

The experts at SPOCE are also celebrating the firm's fifteenth anniversary, by giving delegates 15% off all courses booked before the 31st of December 2009. For more information, visit http://www.spoce.com or call the dedicated sales team on: 01202 736 373, quoting: 15ANN09.

About SPOCE: SPOCE Project Management Limited is a professional company, operating in the OGC Best Practice Markets (PRINCE2, MSP, ITIL & M_o_R). The company's strategy is to maintain an efficient, professional, administrative core, backed up by three key specialist units that provide technical excellence on: the OGC Best Practice methods; instructor-led training and e-learning solutions; and individual learning styles and e-leaning solutions. This ensures that the highest quality is achieved when the outputs are delivered by our proficient group of independent trainers and APMG-accredited distance-learning products.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call 01623 726 233.

In a bid to help organisations achieve key business goals and implement key business strategies, SPOCE, the leading provider of PRINCE2, MSP and M_o_R training courses, is offering on-site training courses at fantastic prices.

Businesses are striving to ensure business strategies and methods of Best Practice are continually in place and being implemented effectively, including project management skills, Managing Successful Programmes and the management of risk. These methods are all essential to the smooth running of any professional company or organisation and SPOCE specialises in the provision of OGC Best Practice methods, all of which can be delivered on-site by a highly proficient, highly experienced set of trainers.

Paul Bradley, Managing Director of SPOCE, which also offers PRINCE2® self-study and MSP self-study options, said, "We pride ourselves in being able to offer training courses at your preferred location, whether that is in the UK or abroad. We are able to provide a tailored quotation, accounting for your individual needs and requirements."

Mr. Bradley added, "On-site training is advantageous, in that it provides more cost-effective training solutions for companies and provides convenience in saving time that perhaps may have had to be used for travel to a course centre. Additionally, delegates tend to feel the session is more personal and therefore can make the most out of the training taking place on site."

Earlier this year, SPOCE found that delegates taking our PRINCE2 and MSP training courses were exceeding the national average passrate, which the firm has attributed to its exclusive learning materials and, of course, the firm's specialist, qualified trainers.

For more information on the range of courses available on-site, visit: http://www.spoce.com. You can also contact the firm's dedicated team on 01202 736 373 or by e-mail: info@spoce.com.

About SPOCE: SPOCE Project Management Limited is a professional company, operating in the OGC Best Practice Markets (PRINCE2, MSP, ITIL & M_o_R). The company's strategy is to maintain an efficient, professional, administrative core, backed up by three key specialist units that provide technical excellence on: the OGC Best Practice methods; instructor-led training and e-learning solutions; and individual learning styles and e-leaning solutions. This ensures that the highest quality is achieved when the outputs are delivered by our proficient group of independent trainers and APMG-accredited distance-learning products.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call 01623 726 233.

What is DSDM Atern?Atern is the new version of DSDM - the proven agile project delivery framework. Atern helps to deliver results quickly and effectively. It concentrates on strategic goals and incremental delivery of real business benefits while keeping control of cost, risk and quality.
Business Agility is enabled through the encouragement of self-directed, empowered teams working together in a supportive and collaborative manner. Atern can be applied to a wide range of projects from small software developments all the way up to full scale business process change.

How can Atern help?

Managing business change and developing solutions are never simple tasks. The problems that often occur when people from varied disciplines come together are:

* Late delivery
* Reduced benefits
* Wrong solution
* Poor quality
* Cost overruns.

Atern has been specifically developed to overcome these problems.

What is Atern?

Atern is an agile project delivery framework that delivers the right solution at the right time.
The right business solution is delivered because:

* The Project team and other significant stakeholders remain focused on the business outcome
* Delivery is on time providing an early return on investment and reduced risk
* All people involved with the project work collaboratively to deliver the optimum solution
* Work is prioritised according to business need and the ability of users to accommodate changes
* Atern does not compromise on quality.

Importantly, Atern harnesses the knowledge, experience and creativity of end users. It uses an iterative lifecycle to evolve the most appropriate solution to satisfy project objectives. Using planned, visible timeboxes with clearly-specified outcomes control is exercised throughout by the project manager and the team members themselves. Roles are clearly defined (page 39) and work is divided into timeboxes (page 30) with immovable deadlines and agreed outcomes.

Atern agility

Atern's agile approach avoids the cumbersome rigidity of 'big design up-front' without the inevitable risks of 'no design up front'. Since it is worth spending some early time examining the structure of the overall solution before building any components, Atern advocates that projects should do just 'enough design up front'.

Atern flexibility

Atern can be used to complement other project management disciplines such as PRINCE2 and PMI without duplication of effort.

The Philosophy of Atern

The Atern Philosophy is that any project must be aligned to clearly defined strategic goals and focus upon early delivery of real benefits to the business.

This is best achieved when key stakeholders understand the business objectives, are empowered to an appropriate level, and collaborate in order to converge on the best possible solution. This solution will be delivered in the agreed timescale, according to the priorities set by the business. The stakeholders must be prepared to deliver a fit for purpose solution. They must also be prepared to accept that change is inevitable as they understand more about the solution being developed. The Atern framework details a set of eight working Principles which guide practitioners in the adoption of the Philosophy. They are supported by a Project Lifecycle (Process) with defined Products, Roles and Responsibilities (People), and recommended Techniques (Practices).

For more information, please visit: www.spoce.co.uk/knowledge-base/dsdm-atern.aspx

The management of risk is a core component for most businesses and organisations. Here, SPOCE, a market leader in the provision of management of risk and project management training solutions, offers a thorough insight into M_o_R and its benefits…

M_o_R aims to support organisations in key decision making processes by helping those involved in understanding risks and the impact of such risks, while using a risk process consisting of a series of well defined steps.

So what is 'risk'?

The official M_o_R website defines 'risk' as "an uncertain event or set of events which, should it occur, will have an effect on the achievement of objectives. A risk consists of a combination of the probability of a perceived threat or opportunity occurring and the magnitude of its impact on objectives…"

How does risk management work?

The management of risk is then implemented to identify potential risks, the length of potential risks and ways in which current risks can be dealt. M_o_R provides a thorough overview of business continuity management, security, programme risk management, project risk management and operational service management. The framework upon M_o_R is based consists of four key components: M_o_R Principles, M_o_R Approach, M_o_R Processes and Embedding & Reviewing M_o_R.

Paul Bradley, Managing Director of SPOCE, which also offers PRINCE2® training and MSP training, said, "Risk management should not be disregarded. It is incredibly important for businesses and organisations and it is of course important to invest in the appropriate training courses. The courses offered by SPOCE are suitable for Project & Programme Managers, Risk Managers, Project Support and Assurance teams, in addition to managers from other disciplines."

M_o_R has been developed by the Office of Governent Commerce and the M_o_R training course on offer from SPOCE is accredited by the APM Group. The course focuses on providing an overview of corporate governance and management of risk, the management of risk process lifecycle, 'tips, tricks and traps' in the management of risks, essential tools and techniques and more. For more information, visit: http://www.spoce.co.uk/mor/mor-course-dates-and-prices.aspx.

About SPOCE: As providers of the first APMG accredited PRINCE2® and MSP™ classroom training, followed by PRINCE2® Passport and MSP™ Passport - accredited distance learning /self-study products. SPOCE is a pioneer in best practice management training. They provide accredited training events through an open public schedule as well as on-site company training.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call 01623 726 233.

Project management training specialist SPOCE has announced significant savings on selected project management training courses this Summer.

The firm has knocked hundreds of pounds off a range of PRINCE2® practitioner, foundation and exam preparation courses, which are taking place in Nottingham, Darlington, London and Bournemouth. Having received awards for the programme management training solutions offered by SPOCE, the firm hopes that these new offers will further support their clients and further boost the firm's continued success in offering the best project management solutions.

Paul Bradley, Managing Director of SPOCE, which also offers M_o_R training and MSP training, said, "We want to provide our customers, both current and potential, with the best project management training solutions at the best competitive price. We also understand that some businesses and individuals that want to invest in these courses perhaps are unable to do so in the current economic climate and so we hope these new discounts do make these courses more affordable to those clients."

The 2009 version of PRINCE2® was launched last month and, like its predecessors, has been heralded as the leading best practice project management approach. SPOCE, in addition to the discounted course, also offers PRINCE2® Passport, a self-study option exclusively developed by the firm.

For more information on the special offers currently being offered by SPOCE, visit: http://www.spoce.co.uk/prince2/prince2-offers.aspx. The firm also offers M_o_R training and MSP training. You can also follow SPOCE on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/spoce.

About SPOCE: As providers of the first APMG accredited PRINCE2® and MSP™ classroom training, followed by PRINCE2® Passport and MSP™ Passport - accredited distance learning /self-study products. SPOCE is a pioneer in best practice management training. They provide accredited training events through an open public schedule as well as on-site company training.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 233.

It is no secret that PRINCE2® is internationally renowned as the leading best practice project management approach, being used by central and local governments, the wider public sector and widely throughout the private sector. The method, updated this year, was launched by the OGC last month, the third significant update the method has undergone since its release in 1996.

The method has been updated to reflect the latest best practice approaches for project management, incorporating corrections to the manual, clarifications and a few minimal improvements.

Paul Bradley, Managing Director of SPOCE, which offers project management training and PRINCE2® foundation and practitioner courses said, "The method itself had remained largely unchanged, whilst today's pace of change and level of connected communication mean that projects now face challenges that simply did not exist in 1996, when the first version was launched.

"There are some key differences between the 2005 and 2009 versions, most notably the focus on a set of principles. Other areas such as risk and tailoring have been rewritten. The authors of the new manual have done a good job, and I believe that this presents a more user-friendly method. I would therefore encourage anyone using PRINCE2® to take a look at the new 2009 version."

SPOCE offers PRINCE2® Passport, a self-study option exclusively developed by the firm to help people learn PRINCE2® and prepare for the examinations. SPOCE also deliver M_o_R® training and MSP™ training. For more information on any of these project management training solutions, visit http://www.spoce.com.

About SPOCE: As providers of the first APMG accredited PRINCE2® and MSP™ classroom training, followed by PRINCE2® Passport and MSP™ Passport - accredited distance learning /self-study products. SPOCE is a pioneer in best practice management training. They provide accredited training events through an open public schedule as well as on-site company training.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 0800 094 9001, Option 7.

If recent developments in the global financial and economical realms have had an effect on your business, you may find yourself trying to cut costs and minimise spending wherever possible. While this is a logical move, it can prove detrimental in some respects. With advances in technology, business strategies and project management, there are many opportunities for you to strengthen your skill-set and help you to advance your business. Of course, it can also work well for your team, in boosting their morale and confidence to perform exceptionally in their roles. Being afraid to move forward in your business may well leave you behind, which no business can afford in an increasingly competitive climate.

SPOCE, leading innovators in project and programme management training believe that companies may fall behind their competitors and suffer if they do not realise the importance of continuous self-improvement.

Clement Pereira, Head of e-Learning at SPOCE said, "We realise that times are tough, but growing your business is crucial to those within the organisation as well your client base. Staff training is seen to be a costly 'frill' but we can provide a range of accredited distance and self-study learning packages that are perfect for companies that want to keep up with the latest project & programme management skils."

A highly efficient approach the distance learning option cuts out all costs associated with the standard classroom based and/or outsourced staff training, such as travel, accommodation, and hiring training resources. SPOCE offer a range of the OGC's Best Practice methods, such as PRINCE2, MSP and the agile DSDM Atern.

The DSDM Atern Passport is the newest in SPOCE's e-learning range, and features the DSDM Atern the agile project delivery framework equipped to work towards achieving strategic goals while dealing with cost, risk and quality.

The MSP Self Study option is also an invaluable source of knowledge for senior managers and programme management support members involved with large-scale business initiatives and changes, and who want to work with a structured pathway to achieving business benefits.

The PRINCE2 (Projects in Controlled Environments) qualification, as accredited by the APM Group, provides training for project managers, team managers, and all project support staff. Available in a variety of e-learning options, the packages are a straight forward route to arming you and your team with the skills to successfully control and manage projects.

Mr Pereira added, "E-learning allows candidates to learn in their own time, and at their own pace. If you wish to gain a qualification in the method, which is recognised as the industry's standard, the necessary exams are included."

SPOCE also offer instructor led, classroom based, public and on-site client training events covering the whole range of best practice methods including PRINCE2 project management training MSP™ - Managing Successful Programmes, M_o_R® - Management of Risk, ITIL - Services Management, DSDM Atern - the agile project framework, APM - Association of Project Management & Change Management.

For more information on the self -study/distance learning and classroom based training options offered by SPOCE, visit: http://www.spoce.com/.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 0800 094 9001, Option 7.

Project management training specialists SPOCE is set to hold a seminar this month, which will give prospective and current PRINCE2 aspirants and practitioners an overview of the new PRINCE2® 2009 framework. PRINCE2 2009 was launched by the OGC earlier this month and this is now the third major update the method has undergone. Much of the redevelopment was as a result of feedback and comments from over 170 organisations and individuals. Richard Pharro, CEO of the APM Group (which is responsible for the OGC Best Practice Qualifications), has praised the new version, adding that it has now been made 'more accessible for all users and particularly for senior managers'.

A significant development in PRINCE2 2009 is the use of a more generic project management method through specific guidance on tailoring the method to the projects environment, in addition to an online 'Knowledge Centre', giving PRINCE2 practitioners access to relevant templates, checklists and tutorials.

Paul Bradley, Managing Director of SPOCE, said, "Here at SPOCE, we are really excited to see the positive effects PRINCE2 will have. The seminar we are offering is ideal for companies and individuals, whether this is for new trainees and practitioners or those who have studied PRINCE2 previously and want to get up to speed with the updated version."

Mr. Bradley added, "We had such a great start to the year with fantastic course and exam results and we are certain that the updated PRINCE2 2009 method and our new course materials will not only be positive for SPOCE but also trainees, practitioners, affiliates, re-sellers and organizations turning to us for our project and programme management training expertise."

The Best Management Practice Seminar is scheduled for Tuesday 7 July 2009 at Fleet Street, London. The first half (9.30am - 12.30pm) of the seminar provides an overview of the new PRINCE2® 2009 method. The second half (1.30pm - 4.00pm) of the seminar covers an introduction to MSP™ (Managing Successful Programmes) the best practice method for programme management.

For more information on the PRINCE2 2009 & MSP seminar being offered by SPOCE, please visit: http://www.spoce.com/prince2/other-prince2-courses/prince2-2009-and-msp-seminar.aspx.

About SPOCE: As providers of the first APMG accredited PRINCE2® and MSP™ classroom training, followed by PRINCE2® Passport and MSP™ Passport - accredited distance learning /self-study products. SPOCE is a pioneer in best management practice training. They provide accredited training events through an open public schedule as well as on-site company training.

PRINCE2® is a Registered Trade Marks of the Office of Government Commerce in the United Kingdom and other countries.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 0800 094 9001, Option 7.

In October 2008 while running a PRINCE2 training course in Nairobi, Kenya, SPOCE forged a relationship with two people from the Kisii region, Kenya. Zablon Rashid Minyonga is a business man operating in Nairobi, and John Obiero is a Primary School Headmaster in Kisii.

After a number of discussions it became clear to us that an opportunity was developing which would help achieve a long term goal of supporting a charity. Throughout the week, a number of meetings were held between the parties, and following the successful delivery of the training in Nairobi, SPOCE flew to Kisii and visited three schools in the area. We took a camera to the schools - the result of which can be seen by clicking the video image.

Kisii (or Gusii) is a small tribe found in the Western part of Kenya in a province known as Nyanza, situated near Lake Victoria. The people here are generally poor and make a living by practicing peasantry farming, relying heavily on government handouts. Education Standards are very low and the infrastructure is poor.

The Kisii charity will initially focus on three situated in South Gucha district, South Mugirango Borabu Location.

* Nyangweta Primary School is partly boarding and partly day with a population of 680 pupils and 9 teachers.
* Nyasasa Primary School is a full day school with a population of 540 pupils and 8 teachers.
* Nyasasa Secondary School is a full day school with a population of 200 students and 6 teachers.

While the Kisii charity has been set up as an independent entity from SPOCE , it will be supported heavily by SPOCE.

Often dubbed as the impossible job, governing our nation takes an unimaginable amount of organisational planning, more so in 2009 than perhaps ever before. Behind the scenes from the Cabinet Office and the Ministry of Defence, right down to local councils nationwide our beleaguered civil servants are increasingly using structured methodologies as essential resource for running their projects and programmes. Project and Programme management best practices such as OGC's PRINCE2® method for project management and MSP - Managing Successful Programmes for Programme management, have been incorporated into the management structures of organisations across the board.

First developed in 1989 the PRINCE training course covers the management, control and organisation of a project offering any type of organisation a structured and efficient strategy for dealing with any kind of project. PRINCE2® describes procedures to coordinate people and activities in a project, how to design and supervise the project, and what to do if the project has to be adjusted if it doesn't develop as planned. PRINCE 2 is divided into manageable stages and the method enables an efficient control of resources while at the same time providing a common language for all participants involved in the project.

Having developed PRINCE2® as the standard in project management for UK government. PRINCE 2 has since been recognised as offering an excellent approach to project management across various sectors of business and is scalable and tailors to any type and size of project.

SPOCE, who were the first company to provide an accredited training course of this kind, have seen a surge in demand for its range of project & programme management training. They now provide training and consulting services for all levels of central and local government as well as high street banks, retailers and manufacturers in the UK and across the globe.

Paul Bradley, Managing Director of SPOCE, said: "It is a credit to the PRINCE2 method that it has prevailed as 'the standard' for project management in the UK. At SPOCE we provide project management training and consulting to many of the premier organisations in the UK and are confident that our PRINCE2 training courses can improve their business practices and help them in these difficult times."
SPOCE cover the whole range of best practice methods including MSP - Managing Successful Programmes, M_o_R® - Management of Risk, ITIL - Services Management, DSDM Atern - the agile project framework, APM - Association of Project Management & Change Management.

About SPOCE: As providers of the first APMG accredited PRINCE2® and MSP classroom training, followed by PRINCE2® Passport and MSP Passport - accredited distance learning /self-study products. SPOCE is a pioneer in best practice management training. They provide accredited training events through an open public schedule as well as on-site company training.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by

To satisfy your project management training requirements let the internationally renowned SPOCE Project Management Ltd expand your skills base. SPOCE is a professional company operating in the OGC best practice markets - PRINNCE2, MSP, ITIL, DSDM Atern and M_o_R. They are leaders in project and Program management.

SPOCE are accredited by the APM Group and have the distinction of holding UKAS/APMG Certificate 001.

The PRINCE2 method (Projects in a Controlled Environment) is internationally accepted as the leading 'best practice' project management approach. PRINCE2 is flexible and adaptable for all projects, regardless of size, type or nature, and offers an excellent management foundation for all members of staff.

SPOCE provides classroom based and distance learning training to help its customers learn and prepare for the PRINCE2qualifications. More than a quarter of people receiving PRINCE2 accredited training are trained using SPOCE materials. This is achieved either through training directly delivered by SPOCE, or through their licensees and affiliate companies.

The MSP method (Managing Successful Programmes) provides and maintains a strategic view over a set of projects, aligning and co-coordinating them within a programme of business change in support of specific business strategies.

SPOCE provides classroom based and distance learning training to help its customers learn and prepare for the PRINCE2qualifications.

SPOCE's e-Learning Manager Clement Pereira said: "SPOCE's MSP distance learning is accredited by APM Group for Practitioner level, which confirms that this product meets the high standard that the industry has come to expect from SPOCE's accredited products. MSP Passport joins PRINCE2 Passport in becoming the first to be accredited by APM Group.

DSDM Atern has been developed to specifically overcome problems that may occur when managing business change. Often problems occur when people from various disciplines come together for late delivery, reducing benefits, wrong solution, poor quality and cost overruns.

SPOCE's "DSDM Passport" is the only e-Learning product to be accredited by the DSDM Consortium.

M_o_R is a guidance of risk, which can be used across an organisation within project and programme environments. There will always be risks, which will need to be identified, analysed and managed. Other areas of an organisation will also be exposed to risks as operational functions are carried out. M_o_R provides guidance on how best to deal with this.

The opportunities for learning all of these methods are demonstrated by SPOCE's flexible approach to project management training. Both PRINCE2 and MSP can all be learned through distance learning, classroom based learning, or a mixture of both.

An impressive client list includes Central Government departments such as the Cabinet Office, Foreign Office and Home Office; Local Government organisations such as Lambeth Borough council, Torbay Council, Leeds City Council; and private sector companies such as AXA Insurance, Barclays, DHL, and Tesco. SPOCE are committed to providing an excellent service.

About SPOCE
SPOCE Project Management Limited is a professional company operating in the OGC Best Practice markets (PRINCE2, MSP, ITIL & M_o_R ).

The Company's strategy is to maintain an efficient, professional, administrative core, backed up by three key specialist units that provide technical excellence on:

* The OGC Best Practice methods

* Instructor-led training and e-learning solutions

* Individual learning styles & e-learning solutions.

This ensures that the highest quality is achieved when the outputs are delivered by our proficient group of independent trainers and distance learning products.

SPOCE provides accredited training events through an open public programme, as well as delivering on-site company training. SPOCE's products and training materials are also licensed to training companies throughout the UK and the World for delivery of accredited Best Practice training.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726233

Renowned project and programme management company Spoce, demonstrates determination to change the world with the launch of KISII, a charity dedicated to improving the education systems in the developing world.

The newly formed independent charity is determined to incite drastic improvements in the state of public schools in Kenya, with smaller class sizes, improved equipment and more encouragement for students to stay in education longer.

In October 2008 while running a PRINCE2 training course in Nairobi, Kenya, Carol Wilson and Paul Bradley of SPOCE forged a relationship with two people from the Kisii region, Kenya. Zablon Rashid Minyonga is a businessman operating in Nairobi, and John Oberio is a Primary School Headmaster in Kisii.

Project management consultant at Spoce, Paul Bradley said, "We are used to developing project and programme management courses like the PRINCE2 and MSP distance learning courses, so the development of education overseas makes for an exciting change. Spoce have long dreamed of conceiving their own charity but had forever struggled to pinpoint a worthy cause. I think the delay is down to us needing to find a cause that truly touched our hearts whilst similarly not already benefiting from the support and work of another charity."

Fellow project management consultant, Carol Wilson added, "Whilst in Kenya we saw first hand the difficulties faced within the local education system; one school employed just nine teachers for 680 children. We spent valuable hours with these children as well as the teachers and it really brought to light that we could help, and how we could help."

Education in Kenya became free in 2003, and whilst a revolutionary development in a country where education was only previously available to the wealthy, Kenyan schools are now persistently short of teachers and are struggling to cope with a severe overcrowding of classrooms, seriously diminishing the standard of teaching that the children receive.

The KISII charities primary concerns are to increase the exportation of qualified teachers to the most overcrowded and deprived schools, whilst also funding the construction of new and larger buildings.

Kenya's higher education establishments are frequently considered to be substandard in quality, but recent years have seen a flux of new establishments opening, along with greatly improved facilities and standards of teaching.

Unfortunately, young pupils are significantly held back from attaining that level of education if they are not supported by a teacher with the time to help them. Even the brightest of students will fall behind when attempting to learn in classes of such large proportions.

Mr Bradley added, "Lots of the children we met were clearly so bright and full of potential, yet were unable to fulfil it due to the poor structure of their education.

"We felt working on the education system was a way to integrate guidance from the bottom and help younger generations to truly change their lives for the better. Through improving the education of Kenya's youth, we are assisting them to help themselves as well as their families and friends within the community. We also hope to see a number of the children progressing on to become teachers and educate others just as they were.

"We have decided to initially focus our attentions on three schools with who we worked while on our maiden voyage to Kenya. It's just fantastic to have met those that we will be helping, and to know that we will continue to visit and see the progress made for ourselves."

Whilst Kisii will stand as an independent charity, the work completed will be heavily funded by project and programme management company Spoce. A £10 donation will be made to Kisii for every training course booked, and the charity is currently arranging plans for a number of fundraising events to be held throughout 2009. As funding's and resources increase Kisii plans to extend their projects much further a field and benefit children in their thousands.

The projects undertaken by Kisii will adopt the principles of the PRINCE2 method whilst reaping the advantages of SPOCE's excellence in project management. In order to keep the public informed of progress made, Kisii will regularly post project files on their website for people to review, learn from, and be inspired by.

About Spoce

SPOCE Project Management Limited is a professional company operating in the OGC Best Practice markets (PRINCE2, MSP, ITIL & M_o_R ).

The Company's strategy is to maintain an efficient, professional, administrative core, backed up by three key specialist units that provide technical excellence on: The OGC Best Practice methods, Instructor-led training and e-learning solutions and Individual learning styles & e-learning solutions. This ensures that the highest quality is achieved when the outputs are delivered by our proficient group of independent trainers and distance learning products.

SPOCE provide accredited training events through an open public programme as well as on-site company training. SPOCE's products and training materials are also licensed to training companies throughout the UK and the World for delivery of accredited Best Practice training. Licensees include companies in Australia, Denmark, Italy, Poland, Singapore and South Africa.

Editor's Note: Spoce is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726233

Running a company in the current economic climate can be difficult at the best of times. It is easy to get swept away in a haze of cost-cutting, profit-based thought. But running an effective business is also about educating your employees to develop a strong skills structure at the core of your company. This is particularly important when looking to improve processes and make savings.

SPOCE, innovators in project and programme management have found that education is a worthy investment, especially in the current economic climate. SPOCE's wide variety of training options, including its MSP programme management distance learning and PRINCE2 project management qualifications are ideal for businesses seeking to educate their employees in order to give them better understanding of how projects and programmes can be aligned to business. Increased responsibility, or even a boost to confidence will help make staff a greater asset to your company.

Clement Pereira, e-learning manager at SPOCE said, "Making provision for a training budget to improve business skills is vital for the growth of any business. Investing in employees and giving them the opportunity to improve their knowledge and skills will soon be repaid through staff loyalty - as you have invested your trust and they will be keen to show you that they are up to the job."

Mr Pereira added, "In the current economic climate, it may be tempting to shun many forms of staff training; but if you need someone who is able to take on a portfolio of projects and thrive under the pressure that it creates, then you have one of two choices. You can either hire resources which could result in costly familiarisation training, or you could train existing employees who already have knowledge of your company ethos - I know which option I would choose!"

Companies seeking to educate their employees in project and programme management are often concerned that training employees can result in lengthy periods away from the office, but this need not be the case.

At SPOCE, they recognise that the time employees spend away from the office can be fundamental to the progression of any business, particularly a small enterprise. This is why they have developed a self-study distance learning product for Managing Successful Programmes (MSP). SPOCE's MSP distance learning product (MSP Passport) is accredited by the examination body APM Group, and enables progression to both Foundation and Practitioner level. The product allows the student to study in their own time, at their own pace, and when it is convenient for them.

To cater to the individual needs of your business, MSP Passport is available as a standalone e-Learning CD ROM, or as a complete package including a hard copy manual and examinations.

MSP Passport, is a core resource in SPOCE's distance learning series, and comprises 16 learning modules, each containing interactive lessons with features that include virtual characters, simulated examinations, adaptive feedback on tests, a book-marking facility and a personal profile to track progress. An additional exams module provides candidates with tools to prepare for the Foundation and Practitioner exams.

The innovative MSP Passport is accredited by APM Group, which confirms that this product meets the high standard that the industry has come to expect from SPOCE's accredited products. It also joins PRINCE2 Passport in becoming the first to be accredited by APM Group.

About Spoce
SPOCE Project Management Limited is a professional company operating in the OGC Best Practice markets (PRINCE2, MSP, ITIL & M_o_R ).

The Company's strategy is to maintain an efficient, professional, administrative core, backed up by three key specialist units that provide technical excellence on:

* The OGC Best Practice methods

* Instructor-led training and e-learning solutions

* Individual learning styles & e-learning solutions.

This ensures that the highest quality is achieved when the outputs are delivered by our proficient group of independent trainers and distance learning products.

SPOCE provides accredited training events through an open public programme, as well as delivering on-site company training. SPOCE's products and training materials are also licensed to training companies throughout the UK and the World for delivery of accredited Best Practice training.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726233

Spoce, innovators in project and programme management, have now launched their MSP Passport in distance learning, making waves in educating the business community.

Priding themselves on being the only provider of educational materials to take the customer right up to practitioner level six in programme management, their new product has just received the stamp of approval from the APMG, the leading Accreditation, Certification and Qualification organisation recognised internationally by government agencies.
Developed as an extension of their well-established MSP Distance Learning series, their new e- learning package has been transformed to work alongside changes made to the existing training manual and exam procedures.

Their innovative approach to learning is supported by research conducted at Bournemouth University, who found that students respond to learning materials that feature a higher level of interactivity.

Clement Pereira, e-learning manager at Spoce said, "E-learning is ordinarily a very social thing, and when students take part in distance learning it is turning it into a very solitary activity. Research conducted at Bournemouth University shows that having a level of interactivity and the incorporation of virtual characters helps to maintain a student's attention span and a higher level of retention."

These findings were then used as a template to make the new MSP Passport visually appealing, featuring cartoon characters and spider diagrams to drip feed the vital information needed for progression in programme management.

Instead of just focussing on the design and layout of the online tutorials, the MSP Passport pays attention to even the smallest details, making them the market leaders. Tracking is a vital element to this learning process providing testing at the end of each module. This gives the pupil a sense of where they are going and how far they still have to go in the evolution process to progress to the notoriously high industry standards.

Targeted at senior to middle management, the MSP Passport encountered initial controversy for its use of visual aids, but this was tackled allowing the student to switch off such features if required.

Mr Pereira Added, "The characters appeal to the customer's social intelligence and many find that it is something that grows on you. It enhances the learning process as it allows reinforcement of the educational message, the pupil will read the on screen message and listen to it. We now offer the option of removing the characters, however we have found that many of our customers prefer to stick to the original set-up."

To find out more about their MSP Passport go to www.spoce.com

About Spoce

SPOCE Project Management Limited is a professional company operating in the OGC Best Practice markets (PRINCE2, MSP, ITIL & M_o_R ).

The Company's strategy is to maintain an efficient, professional, administrative core, backed up by three key specialist units that provide technical excellence on: The OGC Best Practice methods, Instructor-led training and e-learning solutions and Individual learning styles & e-learning solutions. This ensures that the highest quality is achieved when the outputs are delivered by our proficient group of independent trainers and distance learning products.

SPOCE provide accredited training events through an open public programme as well as on-site company training. SPOCE's products and training materials are also licensed to training companies throughout the UK and the World for delivery of accredited Best Practice training. Licensees include companies in Australia, Denmark, Italy, Poland, Singapore and South Africa.

Editor's Note: Spoce is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 0800 094 9001.

DSDM Passport is the latest addition to SPOCE's Passport range of eLearning products for Project & Programme Management Best Practices.

The learning product comprises 15 learning modules, each containing interactive lessons with innovative features such as Virtual Tutor, Simulated Exams, Adaptive Feedback on tests, Contextual Help, Course map/Personal Profile to track your progress, Book Marking, etc.

DSDM Passport is accredited by the DSDM Consortium for foundation level certification which confirms that this product meets the high standard that the industry has come to expect from SPOCE's accredited products.

For more infomation log onto http://www.spoce.co.uk/dsdm-atern/dsdm-passport.aspx

The key to success in establishing an effective structured project management environment is to ensure that the infrastructure is right. To prepare the environment, SPOCE will use their proven "6-step" approach to ensuring the standards that already exist are integrated into the Best Practice methods.

To learn more log onto http://www.spoce.co.uk/consultancy/spoce-consultancy-services.aspx

PRINCE2 is internationally accepted as the leading "best practice" project management approach. Used by the private and public sectors, the method is scalable and can be tailored to any type and size of project.

For the PRINCE2 Traning Course Schedule log onto http://www.spoce.co.uk/prince2/prince2-open-course-dates.aspx

SPOCE, the project management training specialists, are pleased to announce their attendance at the Project Challenge Exhibition at the NEC.

Pioneers in PRINCE & PRINCE2 project management training, SPOCE, who back in 1997 were the first company to offer a fully accredited PRINCE 2 training course, will be based at exhibitor stand 76 for the duration of the two day event which takes place on the 25th and 26th of March 2009.

Visitors to the SPOCE stand will be able to find out about the wide range of project, programme and risk management training services they provide and the various delivery options (Public events, Client Events, Instructor-led Classroom events, Distance Learning & Blended learning).

Paul Bradley, Managing Director of SPOCE, said: "We are very pleased to be attending this event and we know that many of our clients and business partners will be looking forward to coming to the SPOCE stand."

"At SPOCE we are always growing as a company and finding new ways to improve our services. The Project Challenge exhibition will be a great way for us to show the world of project management why we are still the number one name for management best practice training."

SPOCE cover the whole range of best practice methods including MSP%u2122 - Managing Successful Programmes, M_o_R® - Management of Risk, ITIL - Services Management, DSDM Atern - the agile project framework, APM - Association of Project Management & Change Management.

About SPOCE: As providers of the first APMG accredited PRINCE2® and MSP%u2122 classroom training, followed by PRINCE2® Passport and MSP%u2122 Passport - accredited distance learning /self-study products. SPOCE is a pioneer in best practice management training. They provide accredited training events through an open public schedule as well as on-site company training.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Gareth Vipers. Email: gareth@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 234.

With the continued expansion of their network of training centres and an ever growing client base, project management training specialists SPOCE are currently looking for dynamic new affiliate organisations to join their worldwide licensing scheme.

SPOCE, who are the market leader in providing project management training courses for both the public and private sector, provide training courses for a wide portfolio of clients ranging from central government and local councils, to high street financiers and the retail giants TESCO. Their services include the renowned PRINCE 2 training programme which covers the management, control and organisation of a project and offers any type of organisation a structured and efficient strategy for dealing with any kind of project. Having received awards for their programme management training SPOCE hopes that new affiliates will help their continued success in offering the best project management solutions.

They are looking for organisations interested in becoming a Reseller and Affiliate. The Reseller arrangement is for an organisation to sell SPOCE training products and claim a commission for each sale, and the Affiliate option is ideal for companies wishing to gain a quick route to market. An Affiliate may use the required trademarks (i.e. PRINCE2%u2122, MSP, M_o_R, ITIL) in marketing materials and advertise project management training events under their own banner. MSP (Managing Successful Programmes) provides a framework for bringing together related projects, co-ordinating them within a programme of business change in support of specific business strategies and M_o_R training (Managemnet Of Risk) sets out a framework for taking informed decisions about risk at a project, programme and strategic level, to ensure that key risks are identified, assessed and that action is taken to address them. Once an organisation has acted as a reseller or affiliate there is the potential to take the partnership with SPOCE further by becoming a licensee.

Having provided programme management solutions for over ten years, SPOCE were the first to offer APMG accredited PRINCE 2 and MSP training courses and are well placed to help any organisation take advantage of this ever growing area of business management provision.

To find out more about SPOCE, or to learn more about their partnership opportunities please visit www.spoce.co.uk.

About SPOCE: As providers of the first APMG accredited PRINCE 2 and MSP training courses SPOCE is a market leader in management training. They provide accredited training events through an open public programme as well as on-site company training for a range of management purposes.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Gareth Vipers. Email: gareth@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 234.

For the first time in twelve years unemployment in the UK has hit two million, some sectors of the economy are experiencing huge hardship and businesses everywhere are being increasingly forced to look at their own structures and practices with a view to developing coping strategies in ever more uncertain times. From our central government, right through to small business, managing change is becoming a vital capability.

Dealing with change and, more importantly, the impact of change will require new capabilities, training and ultimately a new understanding of the ways in which businesses will have to adapt. This is why SPOCE, the pioneers in the supply of best practice project & programme management training, are offering change management training courses.

The Principles of Change Management course aims to provide delegates with a good understanding of change and its impact on the organisation. This is a modular three day, classroom, instructor-lead course dealing with the theories of how change impacts on and is affected by the individual, the team, and the organisation. The final module covers "leading change".

SPOCE have been providing project & programme management training across both private and public sectors for over ten years, so they understand the importance of change within business. Their current portfolio of clients includes agencies at all levels of central and local government, public authorities and the private sector. In addition to their change management course SPOCE also offer PRINCE2 project management training, MSP programme management training and M_o_R management of risk courses.

About SPOCE: As providers of the first APMG accredited PRINCE2® and MSP%u2122 classroom training, followed by PRINCE2® Passport and MSP%u2122 Passport - accredited distance learning /self-study products. SPOCE is a pioneer in best practice management training. They provide accredited training events through an open public schedule as well as on-site company training.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Gareth Vipers. Email: gareth@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 234.

Project management training specialists SPOCE have announced record results for their PRINCE2 training courses. The statistics for delegates attending SPOCE's open public courses for the PRINCE2 Practitioner qualifications show a 95% pass rate, and their Lead Trainer Richard Lampitt has achieved fifteen consecutive courses with a 100% pass rate.

Having prevailed as the market leader in the provision of project management training courses SPOCE are going from strength to strength, and their expanded network of training centres seems to be producing fantastic results. They have also recorded a 96% pass rate for their specialist Managing Successful Programmes training course which provides a framework for bringing together related projects, co-ordinating them within a programme of business change in support of specific business strategies.

PRINCE2 is the standard benchmark for best practice project management training and has been incorporated into the management structures of organisations across the board. First developed in 1989 the PRINCE2 training programme covers the management, control and organisation of a project offering any type of organisation a structured and efficient strategy for dealing with any kind of project. PRINCE 2 describes procedures to coordinate people and activities in a project, how to design and supervise the project, and what to do if the project has to be adjusted if it doesn't develop as planned.

SPOCE, who were the first company to provide the first accredited training courses of this kind, have seen a surge in demand for its range of project management training and they now provide services for the all levels of central and local government, as well as high street banks and retailers and manufacturers like TESCO and Motorola.

Paul Bradley, Managing Director of SPOCE, said, "We are so pleased with the results so far in 2009. Not only are they a testament to the quality of the PRINCE2 training course but they also speak volumes about how we have grown as a company.

"With such a great start to the year we are now looking forward to making 2009 the best ever year for SPOCE and hope to continue to grow and expand our project management training network."

SPOCE also provide a whole range of professional training courses including M_o_R courses related to risk management and training in change management.

About SPOCE: As providers of the first APMG accredited PRINCE 2 and MSP training courses SPOCE is a market leader in management training. They provide accredited training events through an open public programme as well as on-site company training for a range of management purposes.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Gareth Vipers. Email: gareth@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 234.

In the current economic climate many companies are experiencing hardships, and some are already closing, others however are exploring new ways to operate and thrive in the changing world of business. Within any process of change comes risk, and as no one really knows where our economy is going, or what sort of structures will prevail when things pick up, proper assessment of this risk is vital.

SPOCE, a market leader in the provision of risk, project and programme management training, have a portfolio of clients ranging from the central government to local councils, high street banks and leading retailers. This shows how important management of risk training is, and how organisations everywhere are starting to take the evolution of their project management structures very seriously.

SPOCE provide M_o_R training which sets out a framework for taking informed decisions about risk at a project, programme and strategic level, to ensure that key risks are identified, assessed and that action is taken to address them. They also provide a wide range of other project and programme management training programmes such as MSP%u2122 - Managing Successful Programmes, ITIL - Services Management, DSDM Atern - the agile project framework, APM - Association of Project Management & Change Management and the renowned PRINCE2 project management training course which has become the industry standard for best practice in project management.

These risk, project & programme management training initiatives will become a key feature in the emergence of new business structures. SPOCE, who were the first company to provide accredited training courses of this kind, have seen a surge in demand for its range of project management training and are certainly expecting this to increase further as more and more organisations start to look at doing things differently.

About SPOCE: As providers of the first APMG accredited PRINCE2® and MSP%u2122 classroom training, followed by PRINCE2® Passport and MSP%u2122 Passport - accredited distance learning /self-study products. SPOCE is a pioneer in best practice management training. They provide accredited training events through an open public schedule as well as on-site company training.

Editor's Note: SPOCE is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Gareth Vipers. Email: gareth@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 234.