Building capability through new project skills
Border Rivers-Gwydir Catchment Management Authority made the decision to restructure their activities towards a project-based operation following a reduction in funding in 2008. After consultation with UNE Partnerships, a proposal was submitted and accepted for the delivery of project management training.
The principal focus was to improve capability within the Border Rivers-Gwydir Catchment Management Authority. UNE Partnerships proposed a more consistent approach to project methodology across the organisation through the integration of standardised processes, tools and knowledge, and incorporating existing project management processes/methodologies that functioned well.
Aimed at project managers and project officers, the program was designed to provide participants with the practical skills and tools to plan, implement and manage projects effectively within their area of responsibility across the organisation.
To achieve this, a selected group of staff participated in two-day Project Management Fundamentals Workshops. The workshops introduced staff to the project methodology that would be used across the Border Rivers-Gwydir Catchment Management Authority, allowing for group discussion and participation. Whilst the workshops themselves were non-accredited, they provided a greater understanding of how the different elements of a project functioned.
For staff directly involved with projects, UNE Partnerships conducted a series of workshops and coaching services for those wishing to undertake accredited qualifications. Depending on their level of engagement, staff completed either a Certificate IV in Project Management, Diploma of Project Management, or the Advanced Diploma of Project Management.
New project methodology was incorporated into delivery and assessment items throughout the qualifications, ensuring that new skills were directly relevant to the workplace.
According to Lisa Roberts, General Manager of Border Rivers-Gwydir Catchment Management Authority, “UNE Partnerships spent considerable time gaining an understanding of our organisation and successfully incorporated our requirements into a tailored training package that the Border Rivers-Gwydir CMA staff can implement on a daily basis. By equipping our team with the right skills we can ensure that we maximise the efficiency of our organisation in delivering to our clients.”
