Case Studies

Case Study One - Management Training that Paid Off

The Brief

In 2007, we were asked to design a management development program for a group ranging from yard supervisors to junior managers. The brief requested the program be designed in short modules , pitched to an audience some of whom have limited formal education and others who were graduates, and that was customised to the participants' work environment around a series of topics the client had identified.

The Solution

We worked with the client to develop a series of modules focusing on key work issues. The modules were delivered over a six month period. The 16 participants were grouped into four syndicates and assigned a work-place project with significant business implications. The client nominated a manager as a sponsor for each of the projects. The sponsors and APTI facilitators provided support for the syndicates.

The training modules were mapped against frontline management competencies offering the opportunity for participants to gain a nationally recognised qualification by providing evidence of the application of the topics covered. The assessment process allowed one-on-one coaching to assist the participants.

The Results

The syndicates presented their projects to the managers at a "graduation ceremony" at the Telstra Dome. The benefits gained from the projects paid for the cost of the program many times over. Both the individuals and the organisation benefited greatly for the program which was aptly summed-up by the General Manager's comment:

"I was gob-smacked by the results of the projects."

Case Study Two - Implementing Strategies for the 21st Century

The Brief

In 2006, we were asked assist the State Library of Victoria to develop a project management system to support the implementation of their SLV21 projects (key strategic initiatives).

The Solution

We worked with the client to design a suitable project methodology with accompanying documentation and governance arrangements. We were able to succinctly summarise this information in a one page A4 diagram which made for easy interpretation my managers and project teams.

Short workshops were conducted to the executive with a focus on project selection and authorisation processes, and their contribution to good project governance. Project management training around the SLV21 methodology was then provided to project managers and their teams.

The Results

The two-day training sessions allowed participants to work on selected SLV21 projects. As a result, the Library gained the best investment for their training dollars while assisting the participants develop the skills to successfully implement key initiatives they were responsible for.

Examples of Assignments Successfully Completed

Assisting NAB business bankers cope in a significantly restructured environment that required different reporting lines and markedly different individual performance requirements.

Designing a Train-the-Trainer program to develop the capability of NAB Branch supervisors to independently operate their teams.

Preparing managers and staff in Gas and Fuel Victoria for deregulation by:

• designing change management strategies with the four Regional Management Teams
• designing a business simulation to reflect key challenges and solutions for the business
• conducting workshops for almost 900 managers and operators
• developing and coaching facilitators
• facilitating a "fast-track" project team that reduced the domestic gas installation timeframe by 75%

Developing change agents to support a Team Self-Assessment initiative across Queensland for the Department of Housing.

Implementing individual performance management systems:

• facilitating workshops for the senior management team, team leaders and staff
• developing and facilitating a consultative committee

Developing and facilitating coaching and mentoring programs.

Designing national programs - designed and conducted workshops to introduce AAPT's project management methodology to its directors, senior managers and project managers nationally;

Supporting state-wide projects - facilitating and coaching the state and 10 regional project managers across Victoria working on a key natural resource management project;

Facilitating global programs - adapting a three-day leadership program for Bosch Australia and a three-day project management program for Ford Credit Asia Pacific and facilitating these programs on multiple occasions;

Developing a business practices manual for a major Division within Natural Resources and Environment to ensure integration of:

• Strategic and Business Planning
• Financial Management
• Project Management
• Human Resources Management
• Evaluation and Reporting Procedures

Project managing a major brand change which involved converting 195 stores across Victoria, NSW and Tasmania;

Designing and delivering leadership & management development programs;

Conducting training needs analysis - such as identifying competencies for managers and supervisors and then designing programs and delivering the programs nationally.