TV Comedy Makes Better Managers

Classic British comedy improves management skills in a new training package from BBC Worldwide.

With its access to rich BBC television material, BBC Worldwide uses clips from classic British comedies such as The Fast Show, the Brittas Empire and Are You Being Served to entertaining effect in a new training package designed to improve the skills of UK managers.

The genius behind using such programmes is that situations present in almost every work environment, are exaggerated and can provide trainers with thought-provoking examples and serve as comic icebreakers for course delegates.

Presenting motivational material on computer, video and book, the package includes interactive 'virtual office' sections that simulate a business environment, challenging users to complete tasks and see the consequences of their actions played out on screen.

Amid reports that too few British managers undertake sufficient formal training,* the BBC's commercial consumer arm has developed the multi-media training package Management Essentials, in partnership with the National Extension College (NEC), one of the UK's leading providers of open and distance learning.

The programme has been developed to fit workplace needs, allowing participants the chance to pursue the course at their own rate and as work commitments allow. Christine Hayhurst, director of professional affairs at the Chartered Management Institute, says: "The ability to learn at work and study for qualifications at your own pace is of immeasurable value to individuals in busy management roles. People can concentrate on achieving their goals without unnecessary pressure, benefiting both the individuals and their organisations."

Jonathan Drake, Director of Adult Learning at BBC Worldwide commented: "Already awarded the prestigious 'Training Provider of the Year' accolade at this year's World of Learning Conference and Exhibition (WOLCE), we are excited about Management Essentials as an innovative and entertaining new training solution for business leaders of the future."

The new course launches this month at the HRD Conference and Exhibition, the premier annual event for learning, training and development professionals, held at London's Olympia.

Management Essentials focuses on four key areas: managing and developing staff; improving business performance; developing management skills; and running an effective business operation. Completion of the course results in a Level 4 introductory diploma in management, accredited by leading authority, the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

As the champion of management, the Chartered Management Institute shapes and supports the managers of tomorrow, helping them deliver results in a dynamic world. The Institute helps set and raise standards in management, encouraging development to improve performance. Moreover, with in-depth research and regular policy surveys of its 74,000 individual members and 500 corporate members, the Institute has a deep understanding of the key issues. The Chartered Management Institute came into being on 1st April 2002, as a result of the Institute of Management being granted a Royal Charter.

Initially offered as a CD-Rom package, it contains all the materials required to study for a Level 4 introductory diploma in management, in a 45-hour course. Each of the 4 modules contains a variety of study methodologies including multi-media, online activity, video content, text based study materials and offline activity such as reading and activities within the workplace.

* Review conducted by Professor Michael Porter and commissioned by the Department of Trade and Industry in January 2003. Taken from The Times newspaper 12th May 2003. Dr Michael Porter is a Graduate from Harvard Business School and a widely known expert on national competitiveness.