HOW TO CREATE YOUR

OWN OPERATIONS MANUAL WEBINAR

(includes free set of templates)

You really want an Operations Manual for your small business but are stuck getting started? This class will get you unstuck plus show you an easy system for creating and maintaining the operational procedures and office documentation critical to your business. By using our Operations Manual QuickStart Kit™ (you get one kit* for free – a $49 value! – with the class) and our proven system, you will be up and running after the first class.

What will be taught? The class is structured into two sessions on purpose. The first session will teach you how the entire system works, walks you through setting up your tools and gets you started on the most critical part – planning what you will and should document.

The second session gives us time to review your plan and show you how to document procedures so that your manual is both usable and gets completed. We also cover how to distribute and maintain your manual so it becomes an effective tool within the company. You get a total of three (3) hours of instruction!

Session 1   (90 minutes taught in a webinar **)

• Why the Need for an Operations Manual?
• Different forms of Manuals
  • Difference between Policy & Procedure Manual and Operations Manual
• Important attributes of any Manual
• Your Operations Manual – understanding the process
• What will the completed product look like
• Overview of the chapters and what goes in them
• Overview of how procedures are documented and saved, use of the template
• Use of the Table of Contents
• Setting up Your Manual
  • Get Your Supplies
• Setup your electronic folders – move your templates there
• Prepare your binder
• Create your Table of Contents

Session 2  (90 minutes taught in a webinar)

• How did the homework go? Discuss any issues.
• How to name your files – using a standard naming convention
• Documenting a Procedure - using the Procedure Template file
• Where to store files on your computer
• Getting started
• Distributing Your Operations Manual
• Maintaining Your Operations Manual
  • Updating an existing procedure
• Adding a new procedure

How is the class taught? The class is taught quarterly in a live webinar** so we can actually show you how to edit the template files provided in your kit. When you “see” it being done, you feel more confident to get started on your own. Plus, many attendees have stated the price of the class is worth it just for the tips and tricks we teach about computer file organization and the use of templates in general. We provide detailed notes in the class materials on how to do these tricks. Can’t get to a computer to watch during the class? Just listen in then. You will still get value!

Who should attend? The person who will actually being creating the Manual. If you know you need one and you are delegating this task to your Office Manager or Admin Assistant, they need to attend. They can review the process with you! Just sign up using their email address and your credit card. You still want to know what other

What happens if I can’t attend a session? You will be able to view and listen to the recording of the webinar after each session whenever you want...you just won't be able to ask "live" questions. This should catch you up.

Can I audit the class at a later date? Yes...for free! We are aware some people may need a refresher. All classes can be audited one time for each attendee.

Upcoming classes in 2008:

2 session class:       None currently scheduled

click here to verify the time where you live

$99

(includes set of templates for free!)

PTAC's email us for special offer details.

Want to get started on your own? Just buy the QuickStart kit. Click here for details.

Can’t attend this class and want to be notified about the next class? Email us

* The Operations Manual QuickStart Kit™ is our set of modifiable templates in Microsoft Word plus a System and Setup Guide. (Good for one use.) You get this free when you enroll in the class. (A $49 value!)

This kit was created by Debbie Gilster, the Chief Productivity Guru here at C4GP. As a productivity consultant and professional organizer, Debbie developed these templates and the accompanying procedure system for use by her clients. She has prepared lots of manuals for her consulting clients. After multiple requests, she is now making them available to you online as a simple download so you can create your own manual.

** A webinar class is where you can both hear the instructor (either via phone or computer speakers) and see their computer on your computer screen. It is a form of distance learning where you sit at the comfort of your desk and learn a new skill. This works best with a high speed internet connection.

Who can and should use our Operations Manual product:

• Any small business who wants to be more efficient
  
• Solo entrepreneurs
  
• Businesses with virtual helpers
  
• Small businesses with family members who help them
  
• Typically businesses with 25 or less employees
  
• Someone who wants their entire business procedures in one binder

This system and the templates have been kept simple on purpose. No one, including us, likes to spend a lot of time on procedures. But…they are a necessary aspect of any business. Especially a business that wants to grow and for sure, those that want to be sold someday. We expect you to have an entry-level knowledge of Microsoft Word. We’ve added helpful reminders about menu choices within Word just in case you need them.

What is the difference between an Operations Manual and a Procedure Manual?

There is a difference. In our definition, an Operations Manual is a simple binder where all key how-to instructions and operations information are stored for a company. A Procedure Manual is a mix of policy and procedure, is more structured and detailed in format, and is typically put together at the department or functional process level. There may be a time when you need a more formal Procedure Manual like you find in a large corporation. It all depends on your company culture and growth.

An Operations Manual is a perfect, easy way to get started. Since you will have your information in Word files, you can always easily move to a Procedure Manual format in the future without retyping your information. See our Procedure Manual QuickStart Kit - available soon – if you think you need this. We suggest smaller businesses start with an Operations Manual format.