2014 Outset Group Course Catalog

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World-Class Project Management

Business Analysis and Leadership Training

2014 CATALOG

The Outset Approach

Our mission is to help professionals learn and apply best

practices from three core business domains: Leadership,

Project Management, and Business Analysis.

To fulfill this mission, Outset Group training is hands-on,

interactive, fast-paced, and focused on real world per-

formance. Outset Group students not only learn a highly

sought after knowledge base. They also gain experience

in applying those principles and methods to their work.

Real time, real world. It is the best way to teach these

skills, especially when busy professionals are investing

time and money into training. That investment should

bring performance gains and the career opportunities

that result.

Please take a minute to look at What Students had to

Say for each seminar. Their comments, which they

shared on Student Evaluations, offer the clearest picture

of what to expect from an Outset Group seminar.

A Registered Education Provider (Global) with the Project Management Institute (PMI)

An Endorsed Education Provider with the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA)

Work with an acknowledged leader and enjoy the benefits

of our high impact, performance-oriented training.

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Outset Group Catalog Table of Contents

One Day Workshops 4

Project Management Courses “Practicing these techniques can change the culture of the department…

These will improve the performance of any project.”

Page No.

Project Management One ………………….…………………………………….……. 5

Advanced Project Management ………………….…………...…………………….… 6

The Successful Project Manager ………………….……………………………….…… 7

Project Risk Management ………………….…………………………………….……. 8

Project Management for Executives ………………….………………………….…….. 9

Best Practices in IT Project Management ………………….……………………………. 10

Best Practices in Healthcare Project Management ….…………………….…….………. 11

Business Analysis & Requirements for Project Managers ….……………….….………... 12

PMI Experts: PMP® Exam Preparation ….…………………………………….…….….. 13

Accelerated PMP Exam Preparation Boot Camp ….………………………….…..……. 14

Business Analysis Courses “An excellent and valuable experience for me and my colleagues…

An excellent job of customizing the source to our needs…using real world examples and world class handouts “

Page No.

Business Analysis One: Principles, Skills and Tools of Business Analysis ….……….….…… 15

Business Analysis Two: Requirements Elicitation, Analysis and Management ………….…. 16

Business Analysis Three: Detailing Business Data Requirements ……………….…….….. 17

Business Analysis Four: Management Skills for BA Professionals ……………….….…….. 18

Business Analysis Five: Principles, Skills, and Tools of the Agile Method ………….………. 19

Agile Courses If you need better results from your Agile investment, we can make it happen. Page No.

Agile Process Improvement Workshop …………..……...…………..…………………. 20

Leading and Facilitating Agile Teams ………...…..……...…………..…………………. 21

Getting Started with Agile ………..……...…………...…………………….…………. 22

Management & Leadership Courses “This is the most productive work-related seminar I have taken...

Real life experience entered into every aspect of the seminar, which is Very helpful...”

Page No.

The Outset Group Leadership Series ……………………………….…………………… 23

Management Skills for Technical Professionals ………….……….……………………… 24

Management Skills for IT Professional’s ………………………………………………… 25

Management Skills for Health Care Professionals ……………………………………….. 26

Proactive Communication for Business Professionals ……………………………………. 27

Proactive Communication for Project Managers ………………………………………… 28

A Registered Education Provider (Global) with the Project Management Institute (PMI)

An Endorsed Education Provider with the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA)

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The Outset Group

Your best training investment

Training is a business investment meant to deliver business results. Each Outset Group seminar in this catalog is calibrated to one central goal: Improving real world skills that deliver business results.

Twenty years of innovation and continuous improvement have brought The Outset Group to rank among the top training providers in Project Management, Business Analysis, and Leadership Skills.

We practice what we teach. Our consultants know what PMI and IIBA best practices are, and they know how to apply these practices in service to our customers.

Bring Our Courses “In House”

Many of our customers look to The Outset Group for a “customized” training solution. We enjoy this process and will work with you to develop a training solution that fits your personnel and meets your objectives.

What would the ideal training solution look like for your people and your situation? Click here to open dialogue with us on this topic.

Why Choose The Outset Group

An approach to training that is engaging, interactive, team-based, and fun

Expert instructors who bring a wealth of real world experience

A responsive business partner who works with you and does the up front work to get the most out of your training investment

Recognized experts in our field, with a track record of thought leadership

Accredited by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA)

The Outset Group story

Through continuous improvement and results-oriented leadership, The Outset Group has kept pace with the growth in IT, telecom, health care, financial services, entertainment, and other fields that depend upon Project Management. We have also developed formal skills in Business Analysis, and become a valued resource for consulting and contracting in the BA arena.

We entered the field of Project Management in 1991, as Technology Management Associates. Initially pulled in by the many large projects being sold into the IT and telecom sector, we built a solid reputation leading those projects on a contract basis.

Now – as The Outset Group -- we continue to lead people and projects to success. We provide hourly contract and consulting services to the U.S. private and public sector. We also offer lump sum consulting services based on a carefully defined Scope of Work. Our services are also sold through the GSA Federal Supply Schedule.

Our customers pulled us into the training field in 1999, asking us to show them how we did it. We teach from a “real world” perspective, offering the technical domains of project management and business analysis, as defined by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). However, it is common knowledge that people skills and management skills are also required to fill the role of project manager or business analyst. We emphasize these skills in every course found in this catalog, building in “soft skills” content and hiring instructors who can model and teach facilitation, listening skills, assertiveness, and self-awareness.

Feel free to contact us. You will find us knowledgeable and

customer-centric.

Visit our website: www.outsetgroup.com

http://www.outsetgroup.com

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One-Day Workshops

Business Analysis and Requirements Management for Project Managers Days: 1 PDU: 8 # TMA37

It is no secret that job number one for a project manager is to ensure that Requirements are first defined and then executed. This workshop gives project managers the knowledge and skills to work with business analysts, technical personnel, project stakeholders, and upper management to ensure that Requirements are understood, agreed upon, and aligned with a successful project outcome.

Best Practices in IT Project Management Days: 1 PDU: 8 # TMA03

Teaches IT professionals at all levels how to apply PMI concepts and methods to their work. Provides IT professionals an opportunity to develop their PM skills through working with their peers, under the direction of an expert project manager.

PMI Fundamentals Day: 1 PDU: 8 # TMA11 A one-day primer/refresher on project management principles and methods described in the PMI PMBOK Guide.

Project Management For Executives Day: 1/2 PDU: 4 # TMA12 This seminar teaches the basics that every executive needs to operate effectively in the “project” arena. Relevant, fast-paced session helps busy executives to charter, sponsor, and lead projects.

Best Practices in Healthcare Project Management Day: 1 PDU: 8 # TMA16 Applies PMI principles and tools to healthcare project management. Helps healthcare professionals from all backgrounds to better manage and deliver results on their projects.

Proactive Business Communications Day: 1 PDU: 8 # TMA23

A high impact workshop that teaches a "proactive" model of communications to business professionals. Helps students to identify and overcome inner obstacles that limit effectiveness and waste time. Teaches a strategic approach to communication that drives participation, accountability, and effective management.

Project Leadership Day: 1 PDU: 8 # TMA24

A high impact workshop that teaches practical skills that deliver project results. Teach essential skills, such as running action-oriented meetings and how to document and enforce accountability, that help managers to succeed in low authority/high responsibility environments.

Build an Assertive Management Style Day: 1 PDU: 8 # TMA25

Teaches the values, beliefs, mindset, and techniques of assertiveness. Puts managers in a position of strength to pursue objectives, deal with problems, and build high performance teams.

Conflict Management for Business Professionals Day: 1 PDU: 8 # TMA26

Draws upon a wide array of resources and methods that have proven effective in managing difficult personalities, building consensus, making decisions, and resolving the competing demands of individuals and organizations.

Agile Process Improvement Workshop Day: 1 PDU: 8 # TMA42

This workshop creates an instant Agile Improvement team of your personnel. The outcome is a plan to improve Agile performance at the enterprise, program, and/or project level. Personnel from all roles and levels of authority collaborate to assess, analyze, brainstorm, document, and then plan the deployment of Agile process improvements.

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Project Management One

Essential Principles and Tools of Project Management

Course Length: 3 Days

PDU: 24 No. TMA29

Materials Included:

PMI Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMI PMBOK® Guide)

Outset Group Seminar Manual

Set of PM One templates for each stage of the project life cycle

Seminar content & approach

Project Management One teaches the principles, methods, and tools to lead a project to success. PM One offers a proven, highly interactive seminar to learn and apply this powerful business skill set: project management.

First, we lay out the core PM principles and tools, as students learn the PMI Body of Knowledge (PMI PMBOK Guide) As we advance, students work on their real world projects, applying PM tools to define project objectives, document scope, plan out the project life cycle, address stakeholder concerns, assess risks, solve problems, and manage change.

The result is a seminar that is equally strong on PM fundamentals and real world benefits.

Who Should Attend

Geared to project managers, suitable for all business professionals. Effective as an introduction or high-impact refresher

Project Management professionals who wish to solidify their knowledge and apply best practices to their work

Anyone preparing for CAPM Certification

Why Choose The Outset Group?

Bring This Course On Site

Students return to work with:

Ability to get their project on track and keep it there

A working knowledge of the PMI

Body of Knowledge

An understanding of core PM principles and how they apply in the real world

How to manage Scope, Time, Cost, Human Resources, Quality, Communication, Risk, and Procurement to deliver project success

The ability to take a project through the entire PM life cycle from Initiation to Closing using the provided templates

Ability to understand and use industry standard terminology

Personal Performance Targets that apply seminar content to their work

What students had to say:

Awesome class. Great experience. Everyone’s objectives were met. The open interaction and exercises were very helpful. This allowed us to learn from each other...very beneficial.

I felt like the instructor was talking directly to me also the examples he used were real examples in my everyday work.

Our instructor was incredibly versed in PM from a teaching and practical perspective. His suggestions may save me a lot of time and frustration.

Hands-On Training to create

these templates:

Project Charter

Communication Plan

Stakeholder Register

Responsibility Assignment Matrix

Scope Statement

Risk Matrix

Requirements Management Plan

Change Control System

Gap Analysis

Status Report

Planned vs. Actual Report

Project Schedule

Dependency Flow Chart of Project Activities

Transition Plan

What Knowledge and Skills do Students Gain?

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Advanced Project Management

Put your PM skills to work on current projects


PDU: 24 No. TMA27

Materials Included:



A set of PM templates to address each phase of the project life cycle




The Outset Group Advanced Project

Management workshop applies PM best

practices to actual projects. Students

bring in a real world project, and take a

guided tour through the project life

cycle, applying PM wisdom and tools to

their project along the way.

The three main outcomes are:

1) Projects that are aligned with PM

best practices across all phases

2) Students with new PM skills that

have been internalized through

hands-on work

3) Confidence based on best practices,

Individuals from all backgrounds and

skill levels work with their peers,

guided by an expert instructor in a

workshop environment.

Who Should Attend

Project Managers looking to strengthen their PM skill set

Project Managers who are looking to level set their current projects against PMI standards and tools

Project teams that want to align their project with PM best practices and tools

Great real world examples and lessons from

instructor and other members of the class.



A skill set that has been internalized

with hands-on experience

A deeper understanding of core PM principles and how they apply in the real world

Prioritized Action List covering Scope, Time, Cost, Human Resources, Quality, Communication, Risk, Procurement, and Change Control





Interactive pieces were great. .Conflict

resolution role playing, project discussions,

self assessment and awareness.

Amazing instructor. Very valuable that he

took our needs into consideration and

adapted – Excellent real world examples.

I found many aspects of this seminar that I

can apply to every day work. Good follow up

to the first class. Went more in depth on

useable skills and techniques.

The Seminar was informative and very useful

in my day to day activities.

Hands-On Training to create

these templates:

Project Milestones and Deliverables

Risk Survey

Risk Prioritization Matrix

Project Transition Plan

Root Cause Analysis Diagram





Gap Analysis



.


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The Successful Project Manager

Profiling and Modeling PM Best Practices


PDU: 24 No. TMA30

Materials Included:



Set of PM One templates for each stage of the project life cycle


Join an expert instructor with deep PM

experience on a journey into what it

takes to be a successful project manager.

We combine the formal domain of the

PMI PMBOK Guide with the soft skills

needed to fill the role of PM.

The Outset Group teaches an assertive,

proactive approach to project

management. It is a leadership style that

helps a PM to ask the right questions to

create accurate estimates and lean,

effective documentation. Our assertive,

proactive leadership style is also perfectly

suited to a PM’s role as team leader,

facilitator, and decision-maker.

This seminar can be configured to

address the needs of our customers.

Feel free to inquire about a customized

seminar.

Who Should Attend:

Project Managers at all levels

Individuals who are taking on project management in addition to their customary role

Individuals transitioning into a project management role

Individuals who provide oversight or supervision to project managers



Students Return to Work With:

Specific measures to solve problems and position their project for success

An action list of meetings, documents, questions, and stakeholder communication that will deliver a successful project outcome

Ability to structure a successful project at the outset, especially in the areas of project life cycle management, requirements management, scope management, risk management, quality management, stakeholder management, and change management

A set of completed templates that strengthen project documentation

The ability to apply PM principles and methods to future challenges

Self-awareness of how inner feelings, values, and attitudes affect their performance, and the ability to overcome inner obstacles that inhibit performance


One of the most thought-provoking I have

attended. Positive experience.

Very beneficial and full of relevant tools that

will carry over to project management and

other areas of management as well.

Very engaging – requiring us to interact

rather than lecturing.

Setting up framework, effective listening,

conflict resolution, focusing on process before

product…THANK YOU!

Improved understanding of PM terminology

A more proactive, assertive management style, based on PM best practices


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Project Risk Management

How to Manage Threats and Uncertainty on a Project


PDU: 24 No. TMA36

Materials Included:

The PMI Practice Standard for Risk Management


A set of risk management templates for each stage of the project life cycle


Projects deliver change, and that means a

project manager must manage the risks

that come with an attempt to change

things. This seminar teaches PMI

methods to identify threats, put

appropriate plans in place to deal with

prioritized threats, and monitor project

communication to know when a risk

event has occurred.

In keeping with the Outset Group

teaching methods, students bring in a

current real world project to work on.

The result is a learning experience that

translates directly to job performance

and improved project outcomes.

We start by defining “risk” in the project

context. Then, we take a guided tour

through a project and learn where to look

for risks. As risks are identified, we teach

the fundamental methods of analyzing

and prioritizing risks. Then, we turn our

attention to risk planning, and monitoring

communication to know when a

Who Should Attend:

Project Managers who want to strengthen their abilities in risk management

Business Analysts and Team Leads who contribute to risk analysis and management

Executives and Directors who provide governance and oversight to projects



when a contingency plan should go into

effect. We then advance to risk

monitoring and control, focusing on

communication feedback loops..

This seminar draws heavily from the PMI

Practice Standard for Risk Management.

We also teach interpersonal and

facilitation skills that support effective

risk management. In addition, we draw

upon the IIBA Business Analysis Body of

Knowledge (BABOK Guide) for best

practices in risk analysis.


I can use many of the tools and templates to

more effectively manage my projects.

It was very well administered and I got even

more out of it than I imagined I would.

Instructor is very well-prepared and has good

knowledge about risk management. I can

relate it to real life experiences.

Better able to quickly assess risk without

getting lost in the weeds.

The case studies, reverse Delphi, and team

discussions were very helpful.

Good mix of techniques and soft skills to

illustrate learning objectives.


The ability to identify, analyze, plan

for, and monitor risks on their

projects

A set of identified risks for their

current projects

A plan to address significant risks on

their current projects, first through

analysis and then prioritizing

significant risks for action

Ideas and insights into risk triggers on

their current projects, and

contingency plans that will eliminate

or mitigate the risk

A working knowledge of the PMI

approach to risk management

Ability to understand and use the

terminology of risk management

Ability to work collaboratively with

upper management to ensure that

significant risks are addressed at all

phases of the project lifecycle


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Project Management for Executives

Fundamentals of Project Governance and Portfolio Management


PDU: 16 No. TMA04

Materials Included:

PMI Standard for Portfolio Management


Set of seminar templates


As people advance into upper

management positions, it is common for

them to sponsor, govern, or otherwise

lead a portfolio of projects. To fill these

roles, a fundamental knowledge of

project management principles and

portfolio management best practices are

essential.

This seminar teaches the basics that

every executive needs to operate

effectively in the “project” arena. We

first introduce the PMI Standard for

Portfolio Management as benchmark of

best practices and process workflow.

We then define the role of project

sponsor, and teach how to authorize,

lead, and champion a project. We then

take an “enterprise” point of view, and

define best practices in project selection,

initiation, oversight, and closing.

Who Should Attend:

Executives who sponsor, authorize, govern, or provide oversight to projects

Portfolio Managers and Program Managers

Administrative personnel who support project sponsorship, project governance, or portfolio management



The focus is on effective business

analysis, communications management,

change management, and the ability to

align projects with strategic goals.

Students are encouraged to bring current

projects, issues, and objectives into the

seminar, for individual and team

exercises.


The ability to sponsor, authorize, and govern the projects and personnel they are responsible for.


Helpful- Expanded my “tool-kit”.

Very good…I hope at least the senior

management team will all be “on the same

page”.

My goals were exceeded and my objectives

met. Many items will be useful right away.

It made me think outside of the box regarding

project management.

Good content, well presented…Clearly an

expert on the subject; handled questions well.

Great: Informative, pertinent, on-subject…

Great job.

An understanding of the PMI best

practices in portfolio management,

as represented in the PMI Standard

for Portfolio Management

An action plan to solve problems,

address stakeholder concerns, and

provide effective leadership for their

projects

The ability to work collaboratively

with personnel at all levels to ensure

that projects are effectively managed

and achieve optimal results

The ability to lead process

improvements in project selection,

project initiation, project

governance, and portfolio

management

The ability to provide effective

oversight and direction to project

managers, program managers, and

other project personnel


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Best Practices in IT Project Management

How to manage IT projects that meet business requirements


PDU: 24 Course No: TMA01

Materials Included:



PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct

A set of PM templates for each stage of the project life cycle


This seminar starts with an interesting

premise, namely that “There is no such

thing as an IT project”. Our point is that

IT projects — software development,

new applications, enhancements,

infrastructure improvements, bug fixes

are ultimately judged by how well

business requirements (ROI, cost

reduction, productivity, problem

resolution, or increased business

capabilities) are met.

From this view, the IT PM will put

technical considerations secondary, and

keep primary focus on business needs.

The skills required here are PM

fundamentals and people skills.

Our focus on real world business value

leads us to ask students to bring in real

world projects to the seminar. Students

apply PM best practices to position their

projects to succeed, and learn relevant

skills in the process.

Who Should Attend:

Project managers who lead IT projects

Technical personnel making a transition into project management

IT personnel who are taking on project management duties

Management personnel who sponsor or supervise IT projects



Guided by a PM expert with deep

experience in IT projects, students solve

current problems, and look forward to

identify risks and develop contingency

plans. They script out responses to

address stakeholder concerns, run

meetings, and drive effective

communication. They also review the

current documents and practices of their

project, and make needed

improvements.

We establish a workshop environment,

where students learn from each other

and feel the energy of working in teams

and using new skills.


The ability to align an IT project with business requirements

The ability to run an action-oriented project meeting

The ability to apply PMI principles and methods to an IT project

Insight into the common risks and “unforced errors” that IT projects must overcome


Far exceeded my expectations. Very relevant, applicable material.

My goals were exceeded and my objectives met. I think I am better prepared to handle projects and those working for and with me.

It was very challenging, which I did not expect, but rewarding and I really got some great ideas, tools and experience that I will take back to the workplace.

About 95% of what I do will see a huge impact due to this class

Practicing these techniques can change the culture of the department…These will improve the performance of any project.

A set of completed templates that strengthen project documentation

An action list of meetings, documents, questions, and stakeholder communication that will deliver a successful project outcome

Ability to structure a successful project at the outset, especially in the areas of project life cycle management, requirements management, scope management, risk management, quality management, stakeholder management, and change management

The ability to work collaboratively with upper management, and to align a project with executive direction

Self-awareness of how inner feelings, values, and attitudes affect their performance, and the ability to overcome inner obstacles that inhibit performance

Improved understanding of PM terminology


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Best Practices in Healthcare Project Management

How to manage projects in a healthcare setting

Course Length: 2 or 3 Days

PDU: 16 or 24

Course No: TMA14/TMA15

Materials Included:






Our many years working in health care

inspired us to create a seminar to address

the unique demands of health care

projects. Like our other seminars, we

take a hands-on, real world approach,

and place it in a health care setting.

Our stakeholders are patients and their

families, physicians, nurses, hospital

management, insurance companies,

pharmaceutical firms, vendors, and

government agencies.

Our projects are improving patient care

and patient safety, adding new systems

for Risk, Governance, and Compliance,

streamlining hospital operations and

financial systems, and meeting a

continuous wave of mandated changes to

documentation, communication,

oversight, and technology.

This seminar teaches the knowledge and

skills required to manage a project in this

setting.

Who Should Attend:

Project managers working in the healthcare field

Clinical or Technical personnel making a transition into project management

Clinical or Technical personnel who are taking on project management duties

Management personnel who sponsor or supervise healthcare projects





The ability to identify and work with

key health care roles from clinical,

technical, business, and government

A working knowledge of the Project

Management Institute Body of

Knowledge

An understanding of core PM principles, and how to manage Scope, Time, Cost, Human Resources, Quality, Communication, Risk, and Procurement to deliver project success in a health care setting





Very informative…Instructor is very knowledgeable…Seminar is well-organized and effective.

The tools provided will be extremely helpful to me in “documenting” and helping me to stay on task.

This seminar changed my perspective on how to manage a project, what I absolutely must do in order to ensure success.

Charter statement – documentation and Work Breakdown Structure will become requirements on my projects

Instructor truly listened and allowed great interaction – Great job!

Hands-On Training to create these templates:

Project Charter

Communication Plan



Scope Statement

Risk Matrix



Gap Analysis

Status Report


Project Schedule


Transition Plan


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Business Analysis & Requirements for Project Managers

How to manage people and process in the Requirements Zone


PDU: 16 Course no. TMA39

Materials Included:

IIBA Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (IIBA BABOK Guide)





Seminar content & approach It is no secret that job number one for a project manager is to ensure that Requirements are first defined and then executed. This workshop gives project managers the knowledge and skills to work with:

Business analysts

Technical personnel

Project stakeholders, and

Upper management

So that Requirements are:

Understood

Agreed upon

Aligned with a successful project outcome, and

Effectively met via project planning, execution, control, and closing

Who Should Attend:

Project managers at all levels, from all industries

Business Analysts that want to place the Requirements process in the project management context

Individuals who are tasked with both PM and BA duties

Managers and Executives who provide oversight or governance to projects



Like all Outset Group training, students

bring in a current project and apply PM

best practices to Requirements

Management, across each phase of the

project life cycle. The result is that

students return to work with a clear set

of action items and tools to effectively

manage Requirements on their current

projects.


Very informative. As someone with no formal PM training , I learned some valuable points to help me in my job.

The exercises were thought provoking and lead to very good discussions related to real world.

I have new tools to get better organized and interact with all levels of personnel in a more effective manner.

I liked the practical, real-world flow of this class…I will have more tools and points of reference to draw on when managing my projects.

Very valuable in combining real world project management with formal training…Great job!


The ability to assess how their project is doing with regard to Requirements

Insight into the milestones that must be met for Requirements

Insight into what defines quality in the realm of Requirements

Insight into the role of the Business Analyst, and how to best support and collaborate with that role

A survey to assess the quality of Requirements on their project

A planning tool to ensure that Requirements are addressed at each stage of the project life cycle

A working familiarity of the IIBA Business Analysis Body of Knowledge

Better understanding of the terminology that surrounds traditional and agile Requirements

An action list that includes questions, agenda items, meetings to schedule, and scripted responses to stakeholder concerns


13

PMI Experts: PMP® Exam Preparation

World-Class Instruction and Materials to Earn Your PMP


PDU: 32 No. TMA28

Materials Included:

Best-in-class PMP Exam Simulation CD

PMI Experts PMP Exam Study Guide





After ten years teaching PMP exam

preparation, we have evolved an

interactive, hands-on teaching approach

that boosts test scores and makes for a

more enjoyable and valuable learning

experience. We start with an

introduction to the PMP test — how it is

designed and scored — and then help

students to prioritize their exam

preparation to get maximum results.

We then turn our attention to the PMI

model, and identify the core principles

that underlie every test question. There

are tremendous short cuts here, to

quickly eliminate wrong answers and

select the correct one. With the core

principles understood, we advance to

each Knowledge Area of the PMI PMBOK

Guide, and the PMI Code of Ethics and

Professional Conduct, as they are

represented on the PMP exam.

Who Should Attend

Project Managers who want to pass

the PMP exam on their first attempt

Project Managers who are looking for a more valuable and effective learning experience then the typical PMP “boot camp”



Real World Examples

The seminar uses samples tests, team

exercises, real world examples, and a fast

-paced presentation style. We keep

memorization to an absolute minimum,

Technical topics like Earned Value

Management, Critical Path, and Decision

Trees.

In addition to passing the PMP exam,

Outset Group teaching methods have an

important bonus. After attaining PMP

certification, our students are able to

apply the PMI system to their work.


This was a great experience. I would

definitely recommend this seminar to anyone

planning to take the PMP exam.".

"This seminar was concise, detailed, focused,

informative, beneficial...would be difficult to

improve. The instructor is highly

knowledgeable, and effective communicator,

a talented educator, and very motivational!!"

Very informative and helpful. It saved a lot of

time to figure out how to study for the exam."

.

.Students return to work with:

The knowledge and study materials to pass the PMP exam

Insight into the PMI model of project management, as it is represented on the PMP exam

The ability to understand and use correct PMI terminology

A prioritized study plan that represents a direct line to PMP certification

A best-of-breed PMP exam simulation program that provides multiple complete PMP exam simulations

An Outset Group Study Guide that covers the material represented in the PMP exam


14

Accelerated PMP Exam Preparation Boot Camp

World-Class Instruction and Materials to Earn Your PMP


PDU: 24 No. TMA08

Materials Included:

Best-in-class PMP Exam Simulation CD

PMI Experts PMP Exam Study Guide





After ten years teaching PMP exam

preparation, we have evolved an

interactive, hands-on teaching approach

that boosts test scores and makes for a

more enjoyable and valuable learning

experience. We start with an

introduction to the PMP test — how it is

designed and scored — and then help

students to prioritize their exam

preparation to get maximum results.

We then turn our attention to the PMI

model, and identify the core principles

that underlie every test question. With

the core principles understood, we

advance to each Knowledge Area of the

PMI PMBOK Guide, and the PMI Code of

Ethics and Professional Conduct, as they

are represented on the PMP exam.

“What worked for me? Tying the terms and concepts to real world examples…

I was amazed at how much I had retained without realizing it.”

Who Should Attend

Project Managers who want to pass

the PMP exam on their first attempt

Project Managers who are looking for a more valuable and effective learning experience then the typical PMP “boot camp”



The seminar uses samples tests, team

exercises, real world examples, and a fast

paced presentation style. We keep

memorization to an absolute minimum.

Technical topics – such as Earned Value

Management, Critical Path, and Decision

Trees – get hands on exercises and a

study guide.

In addition to passing the PMP exam,

Outset Group students are able to apply

the PMI system to their work.

“One of the best seminars on management and PMP preparation I

have taken. Really prepared me to write the PMP exam.”


Very informative and excellent prep course for

the PMP exam. Will also be useful for day to

day project management activities.

Very knowledgeable and experienced PMP

Exam trainer.

This was a good way to cover this material.

Not overwhelming.

The material was presented in an interactive

way that made it interesting and very easy to

learn, Best materials on a course I have

taken!

.Students return to work with:

The knowledge and study materials to pass the PMP exam

Insight into the PMI model of project management, as it is represented on the PMP exam

The ability to understand and use correct PMI terminology

A prioritized study plan that represents a direct line to PMP certification

A best-of-breed PMP exam simulation program that provides multiple complete PMP exam simulations

An Outset Group Study Guide that covers the material represented in the PMP exam


15

Business Analysis One

Principles, Skills and Tools of Business Analysis


CDU & PDU: 32 No. TMA31

Materials Included:

IIBA Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK Guide)


A set of templates to execute the core Knowledge Areas represented in the BABOK Guide


This is a fast-paced, hands-on journey

into the profession of business analysis

and the role of the Business Analyst (BA).

“Agile” and “waterfall” approaches are

compared and contrasted at each step of

the way.

Students engage in team exercises, role

play, researching questions in the IIBA

Body of Knowledge, learning essential BA

principles and terminology, and applying

these principles and tools to their real

world projects.

The result is that students not only gain

insight into a powerful business domain.

They also gain the tools and skills to

apply those insights to their daily work.

This seminar teaches analytic tools such

as Root Cause Analysis and Gap Analysis,

and provides hands-on training in

requirements writing and management.

Who Should Attend:

Business Analysts at all levels

Project Managers at all levels

Technical leads and other IT personnel who wish to become more business savvy

Individuals who supervise BA activities

Executives who authorize, sponsor, govern, or provide oversight to IT projects



But we stay at a higher level than our

other courses, surveying BA best

practices across the entire business

analysis life cycle. For training in

requirements elicitation, analysis,

documentation, and management, please

see our follow on courses.

Note: This course is appropriate for PM’s

and others who wants to be grounded in

the professional standard for business

analysis.


A comprehensive understanding of the profession of business analysis, and the role a BA plays in each phase of the project life cycle

The ability to apply business analysis principles and tools to their current projects

The ability to use the IIBA BABOK Guide as an active reference for planning, problem solving, and effective business vocabulary


This seminar was an eye-opener for me into the roles and responsibilities of a BA.

As someone who has led a few hundred classes I am envious of the masterful way you worked the materials into more real-world examples and useful exercises.

This seminar exceeded my expectations... This seminar pulled in all the areas of BA and requirements from end to end.

The group activities and case studies were very effective.

What areas won’t improve? This really has been everything I could ask for.

The requirements gathering and traceability were the highlight for me...The exercises were wonderful.

Insight into the principles and methods that are represented in IIBA certification tests for CCBA (Certification of Competency) and CBAP. (Certified Business Analysis Professional)

An action list of questions to ask, meetings to arrange, documents to draft, agenda items, and scripted responses to stakeholder concerns

The ability to plan an effective business analysis effort, and to collaborate with project management in the planning process

A deeper understanding of the business risks a project faces, and how to support effective risk analysis and planning

Insight into the decisions that must be made in order to authorize, execute, and govern a business initiative, and the ability to support an effective decision making process

The ability to supervise BA personnel and govern BA activities


16

Business Analysis Two

Requirements Elicitation, Analysis and Management



Materials Included:





This course is for individuals who create

or manage Requirements on a project.

Following the IIBA model, we teach the

fundamentals of 1) Working with

stakeholders to elicit, analyze, and

prioritize their requirements, 2) Writing

functional and non-functional

requirements, and 3) Managing

requirements to ensure that they are

current, accessible, and easy to work

with. We also take a step back, and

demonstrate how to organize all these

activities into a coherent BA Plan.

Like all Outset Group seminars, there is

an emphasis on hands on learning. We

use role play, scripted dialogue, games,

and team exercise to help students get

the most useful and memorable training

possible.

Who Should Attend:


Technical Leads, Project Managers, and others who play the role of BA in eliciting, analyzing, or managing requirements

Management personnel who supervise or govern requirements processes



As we teach the methods and tools that

produce effective requirements, we also

teach the interpersonal skills a BA uses to

execute those methods and tools.

Throughout the seminar we teach

listening, assertiveness, group facilitation,

team leadership, and meeting

management, and help students adopt

new skills in these areas.


The ability to write clear, concise, correct, consistent, and complete requirements


I came in not knowing what to expect. I was extremely pleased at the outcome. It will have a major impact on how I handle my projects (for the better).

The course is informative, intuitive, useful, and practical. My experience was overwhelmingly positive.

Instructor was excellent and has a formal grasp on the subject. He also lifted and encourages class members.

I liked the way we set our own course objectives within the parameters of the class, so that we could better apply the course topics in our real-world projects.

The ability to structure a business analysis effort for either a “waterfall” or “agile” approach, and to represent it in a concise plan

The ability to identify stakeholders and act as a liaison among various groups

The ability to ask the right questions, of the right person, at the right time...and document the answers

The skill to use elicitation tools such as interviews and surveys

The ability to write requirements that express business and stakeholder needs in ways that a development team can execute and a quality team can validate

The ability to collaborate with project management to ensure that requirements are effectively managed across the entire project life cycle

The ability to keep business objectives in the forefront, even in a highly technical environment


17

Business Analysis Three

Detailing Business Data Requirements



Materials Included:





We know that all Requirements have

data elements. To write complete

Requirements, a BA must understand,

document, and communicate these data

elements.

We also know that most requirements

are executed by a developer or other

data professional. This person needs to

deliver a business outcome using data

programming. Once a solution is

delivered, we also know that the

accuracy and flow of data largely

determine customer satisfaction.

This seminar teaches a BA how to define

and document the data requirements

that underlie a desired business

outcome. This includes communicating

those requirements so they can be

understood and executed by a data

professional.

Who Should Attend:


Development and Quality managers who need a frame of reference to build collaboration with business analysts

Technical Leads, Project Managers, and others who play the role of BA in eliciting, analyzing, or managing requirements

Management personnel who supervise or govern requirements processes



Like all Outset Group seminars, we

provide hands on instruction using a set

of industry standard data modeling

methods, tools, and templates (see

below) to deliver a useful and memorable

learning experience. Students will return

to work with essential knowledge, as well

as diagrams, templates, and action plans

to solve problems, improve their

performance, and deliver successful

project outcomes.


Very insightful and gave me a better understanding of tools to use in my job and the data requirements related to my project.

My project will definitely start to get a higher degree of attention because of this seminar.

Instructor was exceptional. Well versed in all areas and able to talk to ANY questions that arose.

This seminar will be helpful in formulating data requirements for real world projects. Overall, the seminar was a success.

My documentation skills will be improved and my throughput will be increased as a result of what I have learned in this seminar.


Insight into the different types of data that must be addressed in a project

The ability to differentiate between conceptual data (success metrics) logical data (business data) and physical data (database tables)

Insight into the sources of data that must be elicited to write effective requirements

Insight into the terminology and design of a database

Ability to define data requirements at the appropriate level of detail.

Ability to create and work with a Data Dictionary

Ability to create Data Models to describe “AS IS” and “TO BE”

Ability to create Data Flow Diagrams

Insight into how to use Data Flow Diagrams and Data Models at each stage of the project life cycle

Ability to collaborate with technical personnel in the definition of data requirements

How to write data requirements that translate to acceptance criteria


“This seminar helped to

prepare me to fill gaps in

determining all of the

requirements of a

software development

project…Tracking data

requirements to business

requirements”

18

BA4: Management Skills for BA Professionals

The BA as Advocate, Liaison, Facilitator, and Consultant



Materials Included:





This seminar teaches a management style

that is assertive, proactive, and based on

accountability. It is an approach that fits

perfectly with the role of the Business

Analyst.

A BA is accountable for effective analysis,

accurate and timely decision support,

and clear requirements. Working from

this accountability, a BA is empowered to

interact with all levels of authority and

fulfill their role.

In particular, the “win-win” element of

assertiveness helps a BA to build trust

and overcome resistance. A “win-win”

approach allows the discussion to focus

on solving problems and meeting needs.

A proactive approach is essential if a BA is

to keep ahead of the demands coming

from executives, stakeholders, and

project staff.

We teach this model, relying upon team

exercises, scenarios, role play,

Who Should Attend:

Business Analysts at all levels who wish to improve their management competencies

Individuals who supervise BA personnel



scripted dialogue, and self-awareness

exercises that are crafted to represent

real world situations. The result is that

students “internalize” improved

management skills and return to work

ready to use them.


Insight into the management elements of the BA role, and new skills to fulfill that role

An action plan to improve management performance that includes questions to ask, meetings to arrange, agenda items, and improved workflow

Scripted responses to deal with stakeholder concerns

The ability to deal with people at all levels from a “win-win” position

Active listening skills

Methods to deal with aggressive and passive-aggressive behaviors

A method to take ownership of feelings, words, and actions


Overall, I found it very good. I really liked the exercises. I found them very engaging and learned a great deal from “living” the seminar.

Awesome class. Great experience. Everyone’s objectives were met. The open interaction and exercises were very helpful. This allowed us to learn from each other which was very beneficial.

The seminar provides guidance on how to take an active approach and ownership of communication and organization. My goals were exceeded and my objectives met.

Great set of seminars! I definitely recommend completing all of the classes. This was very helpful.

The ability to pursue objectives openly, from a position of strength

A method to run an action-oriented meeting

The ability to proactively organize and plan

A method to identify stakeholders and build open channels of communication

A method to drive accurate, timely communication

Self-awareness of inner obstacles that inhibit communication

Insight into the risks of taking a “reactive” approach

A set of words and actions that turn “reactive” into “proactive”

The ability to put controlling documents in place early in a project

The ability to facilitate conflicting agendas and personalities without fighting or retreating

The ability to frame objectives and set guidelines that encourage open communication and consensus


19

BA5: Principles, Skills, and Tools of the Agile Method

Learn Agile and apply it to your work



Materials Included:





Students come to this seminar from

various backgrounds and skill sets. They

all leave with the ability to apply Agile

methods to their current and future

projects.

This seminar is comprehensive. We start

with an introduction of the Agile method

and terminology. We then explore the

roles and authority that make up an Agile

team. We place Agile activities in the

larger contexts of the product owner, the

project, the business need, and the

enterprise.

We then dive into the major BA tasks on

an Agile project, and explore the BA role

of *liaison*, focusing on team

communications and stakeholder

management

Who Should Attend:

Professionals who wish to be grounded in the best practices of the Agile method

Business Analysts working in an Agile environment

Managers and executives who provide leadership in an Agile environment



The seminar is mapped to the Agile

Extension of the IIBA Business Analysis

Body of Knowledge (BABOK Guide). This

means we are teaching up-to-the-minute

principles, vocabulary, and methods,

mapped to the global standard in

business analysis.

Like all Outset Group training, this

seminar is hands-on, interactive, fast-

paced, and focused on real world

performance. This means that students

not only learn a highly sought after

knowledge base. They also gain

experience in applying those principles

and methods to their work.


The ability to apply Agile methods to their current and future projects

The ability to use the IIBA BABOK Guide and IIBA Agile Extension as an active reference for planning, tools, problem solving, and terminology


Helpful- Expanded my “tool-kit”.

I think the seminar was great. I learned some new concepts that I can apply right away.

Very insightful. Real world practice is exceptional.

It applied real-life application of projects to the IIBA standards.

Instructor really did a great job understanding his audience and catering the class towards our learning objective. He was critical and supportive throughout the entire experience.



The ability to collaborate with an Agile team in planning and executing an Agile requirements effort

The ability to supervise BA personnel and make process improvements

The ability to use and understand Agile terminology

Insight into the roles and responsibilities of an Agile project

The ability to align an Agile effort with executive direction and enterprise requirements


20

Agile Process Improvement Workshop

Bring core personnel together to improve Agile



Materials Included:





This two day workshop improves Agile

performance by working directly with

your people. It creates an instant Agile

process Improvement team, whose work

will be guided by an expert instructor.

The objective is to improve Agile

performance. The method is to analyze

where we are, where we want to be, and

the best way to get there. The outcome is

a plan to improve Agile performance at

the enterprise, program, or project level.

Personnel from all roles and levels of

authority collaborate to assess, analyze,

brainstorm, document, and then plan the

deployment of Agile process

improvements.

Day One: The team defines the

benefits sought from an Agile approach

(Why Agile?). We start from the business

perspective. We then identify “pain

points”, and apply root-cause analysis

and gap analysis to define needed

improvements.

Who Should Attend:

Managers, Executives, and Agile Practitioners who wish to analyze and improve Agile processes and methods

Business Analysts working in an Agile environment

Project Managers working in an Agile environment



Day Two: Teams work up potential

solutions to identified opportunities and

problems, with the overall goal to make

Agile more productive. Deliverables are

workflow process diagrams, data flow

diagrams, templates for improved

communication and documentation, and

Responsibility Assignment Matrices to

assign tasks and accountability. There

will also be action lists containing key

questions and a plan to get answers,

scripted responses to stakeholder

concerns, meetings to schedule, agenda

items, and improvements that can be

deployed at once. With these in place,

the final session creates a realistic and

achievable plan to implement the

changes, starting with executive review

and approval.

What students had to say: A worthwhile experience that clarified and solidified the Agile process.. bringing the complexity into a simplified and understandable level.

The delivery of topics was made fun. Activities were designed to challenge current approaches, then provides the IIBA framework as a best practice approach.

Eye-opening. Revelatory. Instructor did an outstanding job of taking a seemingly overwhelming subject matter and making it fun.

I was very pleased with the seminar…well presented…carefully planned and executed.


The ability to apply Agile methods to their current and future projects

The ability to use the IIBA BABOK Guide and IIBA Agile Extension as an active reference for planning, tools, problem solving, and terminology



The ability to collaborate with an Agile team in planning and executing an Agile requirements effort

The ability to supervise BA personnel and make process improvements

The ability to use and understand Agile terminology

Insight into the roles and responsibilities of an Agile project

The ability to align an Agile effort with executive direction and enterprise requirements


21

How to Lead and Facilitate Agile Teams

Improved Communications & Leadership in Agile Projects



Materials Included:

IIBA Agile Extension to the BABOK



Moving to Agile requires elevated

communication skills among Agile team

members. Agile software development is

based on trust, teamwork, equality,

openness, and a willingness to try

something new. Product owners must be

able to answer questions and express

their needs in actionable terms. Technical

resources need encouragement to

engage in dialogue with non-technical

personnel. Project Managers and Scrum

Masters need to use “facilitation” rather

than “authority” to get things done.

Everyone needs to adopt an egalitarian

approach where people’s needs and

ideas are respected and understood to

be at the heart of team success.

Making the transition to the elevated

communication skills of Agile is often

challenging.

Who Should Attend:

Appropriate for anyone working in an agile environment, including:

Scrum Masters

Software Developers

Solution Architects

Product Owners

Project Managers

Business Analysts

Quality Specialists

Program Managers

Business Owners and Sponsors

People coming from traditional roles

(Project Manager, Business Analyst,

Software Developer, Systems Engineer,

QA Specialist, Product Specialist, Business

Owner) may lack the training or

experience to pull it off. The result is that

people tend to revert to learned

behavior, which can undermine the

collaboration that is at the heart of

successful Agile development.

How to Lead and Facilitate Agile Teams offers

everyone the opportunity to learn and

internalize fundamental leadership and

communication skills, and to then apply these

skills to their Agile projects. We model an

Agile environment in the classroom, and

make extensive use of scenarios, role play,

team exercises, and group discussion. We

also keep the focus on real world

What students had to say: A worthwhile experience that clarified and solidified the Agile process.. bringing the complexity into a simplified and understandable level. I was very pleased with the seminar…well presented…carefully planned and executed.


The ability to recognize “problematic” communication that hurts the team and reduces the prospects for success

A clear definition of “effective” communication that drives success in an Agile environment

The ability to take an assertive approach that models “win – win” communication and supports Agile best practices

The ability to prepare and conduct a meeting that follows Agile best practices and makes optimal use of everyone’s time and energy

The ability to facilitate open communication that leads to shared understandings and commitments

The ability to lead diverse stakeholders in an Agile environment

The ability to align the work of Agile teams with strategic intent and business requirements


22

Getting Started with Agile

The Essential Introduction to Real World Agile



Materials Included:

IIBA Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK Guide 2.0)

IIBA Agile Extension to the BABOK Guide 2.0

Outset Group Seminar Manual loaded with Agile principles,

vocabulary, methods and best practices


Getting Started in Agile teaches the

Scrum method (this can be adapted to

align with our customer’s Agile practices).

The seminar maps Agile principles to the

Agile Manifesto, the Scrum Alliance, and

the IIBA Agile Extension to the BABOK

Guide.

Like all Outset Group seminars, Getting

Started in Agile helps our students to

succeed in their real world business

context. To accomplish this, we create a

“fast-paced and fun” learning

environment that gives each student the

flexibility to interpret and apply Agile

principles in their real world work

context.

Once each student's Learning Objective

has been documented (in the form of a

user story), we take a unique case study

approach:

Who Should Attend:

People from all backgrounds who need a working knowledge of Agile principles, and how they are applied in a business context

People from all areas of the business who are being asked to migrate to an Agile environment

Agile practitioners who are in their early stages of learning a new approach, and want to be grounded in Agile principles, vocabulary, and best practices



Students track the same project through

two distinct project life cycles. We

simultaneously take the project through

both a “Waterfall” and an “Agile”

approach.

Using elements of game shows, board

games, panel discussions, and pop

quizzes, we challenge our students with

common issues and questions that arise

in an Agile project, and give extra points

when students make the connection to

real world examples.

At the close of the seminar, students

have taken the same project through a

waterfall approach and an Agile

approach. They will know the advantages

and risks of each approach, and in

particular know what is expected of a

project that uses Agile


The ability to participate in projects

that use Agile methods

What students had to say: "My company is preparing us for migration to Agile practices."

"We are trying to become more Agile, and are using this training to get everyone on the same page."

"Our ScrumMasters and BA's are well-versed in Agile, but there is a fair amount of confusion among the rest of us about how Agile is supposed to work."

"Our customers use Agile methods, and they expect us to communicate and manage in that space."

The ability to communicate with

Agile practitioners, and to

understand where they are coming

from

The ability to factor in Agile methods

and best practices into their plans

and their management approach

The ability to define their individual

role in their company’s Agile

methods, or at least ask the right

questions to define accountability in

Agile terms

The ability to supervise personnel

working in an Agile environment

The ability to use and understand

Agile terminology

Insight into the roles and

responsibilities of an Agile project

The ability to align an Agile effort

with executive direction and

enterprise requirements


23

The Outset Group Leadership Series

Four 1-Day Workshops that Create Business Leaders



Materials Included:

Outset Group seminar manuals

Readings and excerpts from thought leaders from each field

Templates to help you apply seminar methods to your work


This series draws from our acclaimed

curriculum to distill the essential

elements of leadership into four one day

sessions.

One day events help busy personnel to

get on a leadership track and improve

skills (see below).

Each session starts with the basic

principles that define successful

leadership for each area. We then work

with students to help them target areas

of self-improvement and learning

objectives. We then jump into a series of

team exercises to teach the methods and

skills that define excellence for each area.

At the end of each session, students set

“realistic and achievable” performance

targets that apply what they have

learned to their work...

All course material can be adjusted to

address customer issues and culture.

Who Should Attend:

Professionals from all backgrounds who wish to strengthen their core leadership skills



“Great set of seminars! I definitely recommend completing all of the classes. This was very helpful.”

Build an Assertive Management Style

The ability to take a “win-win” approach to all situations

Methods to deal with aggressive and passive-aggressive behaviors

The ability to stay free of other people’s problems and maintain a professional approach

The ability to pursue objectives openly, from a position of strength

A method to run an action-oriented meeting

Proactive Business Communications

The ability to look ahead and position people for optimal results

A method to build open channels of communication in all directions

A method to drive accurate, timely communication

Self-awareness of inner obstacles that inhibit communication


The ability to put controlling documents in place early in a project


Powerful and useful...I think communication will improve between management and employees.

Eye-opener to how I have handled situations wrong in the past and how I could have better handled them.

Outstanding; Everyone in a leadership position should attend a class like this. It not only reinforces training I have had but covered many new aspects when dealing with personnel or customers.

Helps me identify weaknesses and direction to improve, highlights actions I do well and how I can perform even better. Role playing was great preparation for handling people and situations which at one time would immobilize me.

Conflict Management for Professionals

The ability to deal with conflicting agendas and personalities without fighting or retreating

The ability to facilitate highly charged discussion

The ability to frame objectives and set guidelines that encourage open communication and consensus

A method to move discussion from “personal” to “business”

Project Leadership

Insight into the core principles that govern project success

Ability to initiate a project and establish a project charter

Methods to identify, analyze, and plan for “risk” on a project

Ability to create a project plan that covers each phase of the “project life cycle”, from initiation to complete.

Methods to establish and enforce accountability on a project

A method for managing “scope change” on a project


24

Management Skills for Technical Professionals

Principles, Skills, and Tools of Effective Management

Course Length: 3Days


Materials Included:





This seminar teaches a management

style that is assertive, proactive, and

based on accountability.

We start at the beginning, making a hard

distinction between “technical” skills and

“management” skills. Then our students

begin the process of skill development in

the core business competencies that

define effective management. We teach

active listening, effective documentation,

running action-oriented meetings,

dealing with common personality types

and roles, handling conflict, keeping the

focus on business objectives, and

becoming more self-aware.

Students are challenged by the common

scenarios they face at work. They learn

and practice new skills through team

exercises, role play, scripted dialogue,

self-awareness exercises, and active

engagement with the instructor and

peers.

Who Should Attend:

Managers and executives at all levels who wish to improve their management competencies

Technical personnel making the transition to a management role

Technical personnel who are being tasked with management duties



The result is that students “internalize”

valuable skills and return to work ready

to use them.


Insight into the management role, and new skills to fulfill that role

An action plan of questions to ask,

people to meet with, agenda items,

workflow improvements, and concise

documentation

Scripted responses to deal with stakeholder concerns

The ability to deal with people at all levels from a “win-win” position


The ability to frame objectives that encourage consensus, and set guidelines that support open communication

The ability to offer supportive feedback


Informative in both job related and personal aspects of how to manage tasks and people.

Maybe the best I’ve ever attended. Excellent

instructor. Real world. Can apply directly/

immediately to my work.

A great seminar…interaction and examples were very intuitive...Scenarios were dead on.

Very beneficial. Acquired new skills and ideas that will positively impact my performance.

Excellent experience. Definitely well worth it

and I would recommend it for all managers,

old and new .

Methods to deal with aggressive and passive-aggressive behaviors without fighting or retreating

A method to take ownership of feelings, words, and actions

The ability to stay free of other people’s problems and deliver a professional solution

A method to run an action oriented meeting

The ability to organize and plan using concise documentation



25

Management Skills for IT Professionals

How to fill a Management Role in an IT Setting



Materials Included:





The Outset Group, with over twenty five

years of experience in IT project

management and consulting, teaches a

management style that is assertive,

proactive, and based on

accountability. Students develop skills in


define effective management in an IT

setting.

We start at the beginning, making a hard

distinction between “technical” skills and



the core competencies that define

effective management in the world of IT.

We teach active listening, effective

documentation, running action-oriented

meetings, dealing with various

personality types and roles found in an IT

setting, handling conflict, keeping the

focus on business objectives, and


Who Should Attend:

IT managers and executives who wish to improve their management skills

Technical personnel making the transition to a management role

Technical personnel who are being tasked with management duties



“Nice to have an instructor who actually practices what he teaches.”

Students are challenged by common

scenarios they face at work. They learn

and practice management skills through

team exercises, role play, dialogue, self-

awareness exercises, and engagement

with the instructor and peers.

The result is that students “internalize”

valuable skills and return to work ready

to use them.


Insight into the management role,

and new skills to fulfill that role in an

IT setting




documentation

Scripted responses to deal with

stakeholder concerns

The ability to deal with people at all

levels from a “win-win” position

Active listening skills in an IT setting


Presented us with one of those rare events in life…I see managing myself in a new way, and my interactions above me and with peers will be more skilled and effective.

This seminar completely transformed my way of thinking and brought me best practices to be implemented for better and more productive management.

It helped me to be more focused on the most important aspects of my work…and to free myself from the mental stress.

Helped to build a strong management vocabulary.

Great learning experience… The scenarios created real-life work issues…I could identify with each one.

The ability to stay free of other

people’s problems and deliver a

professional solution

The ability to pursue objectives

openly, from a position of strength

A method to run an action-oriented

meeting

The ability to organize IT initiatives

Self-awareness of inner obstacles

that inhibit communication

A set of words and actions that turn

“reactive” into “proactive”

The ability to put controlling

documents in place early in a project

A method to move discussion from

“personal” to “business”

The ability to offer supportive

feedback

Methods to deal with aggressive and

passive-aggressive behaviors


26

Management Skills for Health Care Professionals

How to fill a Management Role in a Health Care Setting



Materials Included:





The Outset Group, with over thirty years

of experience in Health Care providing

management, clinical, and technical

services, is well-positioned to help Health

Care personnel adopt effective

management practices.

This seminar teaches a management style

that is assertive, proactive, and based on

accountability. We start at the beginning,

making a hard distinction between

“technical/clinical” skills and




define effective management in a Health

Care setting. We teach active listening,

effective documentation, running action-

oriented meetings, dealing with various

personality types and roles found in a

Health Care setting, handling conflict, and


Who Should Attend:

Managers and executives in the Health Care field who wish to improve management skills

Clinical personnel making the transition to a management role

Technical, administrative, and clinical personnel who are tasked with management duties



Students are challenged by the common

scenarios they face in their work. They

learn and practice management skills

through team exercises, role play,

scripted dialogue, self-awareness

exercises, and active engagement with

the instructor and peers. The result is

that students “internalize” valuable skills

and return to work ready to use them.


Insight into the management role,

and new skills to fulfill that role.




documentation

Scripted responses to deal with

stakeholder concerns

The ability to deal with people at all

levels from a “win-win” position


The ability to offer supportive feedback


Well organized, relevant to the work…Practical and sensible…gives the participant confidence.

Excellent! Well worth the time. All management at all levels need this class.

Topics and examples were relevant and focused…meeting facilitation, listening skills, overall management skills.”

The seminar was right on target...I will take away some excellent tools...I got something from virtually every part of the seminar.

I came in with certain expectations but left with much more...many relevant issues addressed and I learned a lot from the role playing as well as the group discussions.

Methods to deal with aggressive and

passive-aggressive behaviors

A method to take ownership of

feelings, words, and actions

The ability to pursue objectives

openly, from a position of strength

A method to run an action-oriented

meeting

A method to identify stakeholders

and build open channels of

communication





The ability to facilitate conflicting

agendas and personalities without

fighting or retreating

The ability to frame objectives and

set guidelines that encourage open

communication and consensus


27

Proactive Communication for Business Professionals

How to keep people and projects ahead of the curve



Materials Included:





Timing is everything, as the saying goes.

This seminar is designed to put business

professionals in front of the curve, as

they push communication in all directions

and help everyone to make effective

plans and smart decisions that secure

future success.

This seminar draws from a wide range of

best practices in leadership, project

management, business analysis, martial

arts, and interpersonal relations skills.

Combined in this seminar, they form a

management style that actively pursues

objectives from a position of strength,

rather than a “reactive” position of

weakness.

Like all Outset Group seminars, most of

the time is spent in role playing, team

exercises, and applying core principles

and tools to real world issues.

Who Should Attend:

Business professionals at all levels and from all domains who are looking to strengthen their approach to management and communications



“I feel that I will have better communication,

better follow-up and better thought processes

about running meetings, resolving issues and

casting vision”

This seminar has been sponsored by the

PMI Global Congress, NASA, PMI

SeminarsWorld, and major universities

and corporations throughout the U.S.

Join us for a high impact learning

experience that will transform your

approach to work and daily activities.


Very interactive, was able to relate all of the exercises with my day to day work.

Instructor knew what he was talking about and would definitely trust his advice.

Awesome seminar! Great insight to processes I have never utilized. Opened my eyes to details I frequently overlook.

For entry-level management, a must…positive, informative, and applicable to improve my performance.

I did not expect to do as much internal work! This class helped me to take a ling hard look at myself and performance, and push me to apply what I learned in order to obtain the best possible outcome.


The ability to look ahead and position

people for optimal results

A method to build open channels of

communication in all directions

A method to drive accurate, timely

communication



Insight into the risks of taking a

“reactive” approach






28

Proactive Communication for Project Managers

Communication methods that keep a project moving forward



Materials Included:


Readings and excerpts from thought

leaders from each field

Templates to help you apply seminar

methods to your work


Timing is everything, as the saying goes,

and it is especially true for project

managers. This seminar is designed to

put PM’s in front of the curve, as they

push communication in all directions and

help everyone to make effective plans

and smart decisions that secure future

success.

This seminar shows how PM’s can use

communication to hit the milestones and

requirements of a successful project. The

teachings draw from a wide range of best

practices in leadership, project

management, business analysis, martial

arts, and interpersonal relations skills.

Combined in this seminar, they form a

management style that actively pursues

objectives from a position of strength,

rather than a “reactive” position of

weakness.

Who Should Attend:

Business professionals at all levels

and from all domains who are

looking to strengthen their approach

to management and communications



“Very motivating. I came out of this seminar

with many ways to work and communicate

with both PM’s and my development staff

that will increase out success in projects.”

This seminar is devoted to role playing,

team exercises, and applying core

principles and tools to real world issues.

This seminar has been sponsored by the

PMI Global Congress, NASA, PMI

SeminarsWorld, and major universities

and corporations throughout the U.S.

Join us for a high impact learning

experience that will transform your

approach to work and daily activities.


Very insightful, informative, highly interactive. We went over several real life scenarios which will be very helpful when confronted with that situation.

Excellent, one of the best I have attended. I would recommend all management personnel from the top down take this course .

Great seminar….Stronger understanding of PM terminology and what is expected in Initiating/Planning of a project.

This was, by far, the best project management training I have attended.


The ability to use communication

methods to hit the milestones and

requirements of a successful project

The ability to look ahead and position

people and processes for optimal

results

A method to build open channels of

communication in all directions

A method to drive accurate, timely

communication



Insight into the risks of taking a

“reactive” approach






2014 Outset Group Course Catalog

Documents

Transcript of 2014 Outset Group Course Catalog