A special pilot of our latest new course.

**Update** This workshop is now fully subscribed, but we have added another to the calendar - details and bookings are here.

This special new introduction to Managing Capacity complements our core workshop programme. It is based on the new Lasting Difference Guide to Managing Capacity, a copy of which will be provided.

Managing capacity is the primary challenge for non-profit organisations, but effective strategies exist once we understand what capacity really is and where it comes from.

The workshop begins by redefining capacity and introducing ways to measure it, before identifying how to manage it, with proven strategies for aligning resources and demand more sustainably. It focuses on organisational capacity, though individual capacity is also considered, just as it is in the new guide.

Click 'Tickets' to book your place or contact us if you would like more information. (Follow the links below for our other masterclasses).

Outcomes

The intended learning outcomes from this standalone pilot course are to:

• Broaden participants' awareness of capacity.
• Deepen understanding of how to measure and manage it.
• Increase ability to take action on capacity.

Features

This participatory online workshop (and the ones below) take place on our online learning platform, Big Blue Button. It replicates everything you'd expect from face-to-face participation:

• Clear content delivery, backed up with comprehensive extra resources: 32 page guide to Managing Capacity, course slides, handouts & full masterclass notes.
• Interactive workshop, active learning – work on your own capacity challenges and goals.
• Peer sharing and support, with breakout spaces for small group activity, supported by members of the Lasting Difference team.

Other masterclasses for Spring 2021: Understanding sustainability in a recovering world - paradoxes, principles and practices

6th May 10am-12.45pm

This masterclass starts by introducing and re-examining the principles of sustainable organisations. Do the same principles and practices apply during and after the Covid-19 crisis?

A good portion of the session will be spent in supportive group activity, identifying and sharing learning from Covid - and recent years - to identify what to sustain. The workshop encourages you to plan for the future based on a clear understanding what works and what makes the most impact, a theme that continues in Masterclass 2.

Masterclass 2: The Five Capabilities

20th May 10am-12.45pm

Develop and apply the five capabilities of sustainable organisations, brought to life with practical examples and learning among supportive peers (Involvement, Income generation, Innovation, Improvement, Impact measurement).

Masterclass 3: Following the Exit Signs

3rd June 10am-12.45pm

Introducing and exploring the six possible exit strategies for any stage in a project or organisational lifecycle. Identify and plan for the most appropriate strategy for transitioning from survival to sustainability.

About The Lasting Difference

These sessions are led by Graeme Reekie, author of the popular Lasting Difference toolkit and Director of Wren and Greyhound (now trading as The Lasting Difference). Graeme is a respected charity consultant who has supported nonprofit organisations through workshops, facilitation and strategic consultancy over the last 15 years. Members of the Lasting Difference team will also be on hand during the workshops.

The updated fifth edition of the Lasting Difference is available as a free interactive PDF download from TheLastingDifference.com. With more than 7000 copies now in use by charities and social enterprises around the world, it is the go-to guide on nonprofit sustainability.

FAQs

Q. Who is this workshop for and why is it free?

A. This is a pilot workshop - we have not run it before and we will be seeking your feedback to help us learn and improve it for the future. In return, we are providing free places, with priority being given to Lasting Difference newsletter subscribers and symbol holders.

Q. How many people can take part?

A. There are up to 25 places available and up to two people from the same organisation can take part, but please book separately as this makes it easier to manage individual log-ins to our online platform.

Q. Do I need any special equipment or software to take part?

A. No, other than a computer with internet access, microphone and, ideally, a webcam. You don't need to download software, we will send you details of how to log in to the learning platform. You will also be encouraged to visit the virtual training room in advance to have a look around and check for any technical issues. The platform works best with Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome, but other browsers are supported and should work smoothly as long as you are using an up to date version.

Q. What if I need to cancel?

You can cancel your booking at any time, but please give us as much notice as possible. This is a free pilot but it does cost us to make it available, so please help us to keep these down by emailing: info@wrenandgreyhound.co.uk