• You’ve already registered for the programme.
• If you haven't already done so you will need to complete the application form that you will be sent by post along with a CDRom if you have requested one.
• You can access the materials on-line by clicking on the Module numbers at the top of this screen when you see the hand icon. There are fifteen modules which you should work through in order. The titles are given later.

When you see the materials on the screen, you will see a right hand panel. Click on Things to do and the Summary. These will tell you more about what is in the module. Don’t worry if you don’t understand it before you start, you will when you finish. You will also see Technical Notes. If you click on this, it will give you some information about your computer and the software you need. If you are working from a centre, the computer should already have this software. If you are using your own computer then you may need to download the software yourself. Just follow the instructions carefully.

Scroll down the text on the right hand side. Note the key words that appear in pop up boxes when they first appear or click on the Key words in the right hand panel to help you with any words that you are not clear about.

Note the activities and stories in the module. They are there to help you think through the key topics. Remember to apply them to your own business idea. Don’t forget the Recap section at the beginning of the modules. If you click on the Important points then those that were at the end of the previous module will pop up.

Work through the module, jot down notes and any queries you may have. At the end of the module, check that you understand all the IMPORTANT POINTS. Then answer the module QUESTION. You can email this on-line by filling in your name and student ID number. This question is to help you check that you understand the key points in the module and to let us know that you are working through the training. We can help to keep you on track. It also will give us a record of your work so we can issue your CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT when you have completed all the modules.

If you are not working through the course on-line, but by going through the CDRom then you can still email or send your answer by post to your trainer.

Also in the side panel you can click on the Discussion forum. You can join in the discussion with women who are also on the programme and your training officer and business advisor from the WBDA. You can ask questions and look at the experiences of others. There are four topic areas that you can choose. If you want to ask your trainer or business advisor some specific questions that you don’t want everyone else to see then you can use the Email facility. Click on this and you can email your question directly. Even if you don’t have an email address, or can’t retrieve emails very easily then you can still contact them by using this facility. Alternatively, you can ask your trainer or business advisor to phone you or write to you instead.

At the end of each module are RECORD SHEETS. Print out the sheets and fill them in. Use them as checklists for key information. These will help you when you decide to develop your business plan.

In the materials you will also see links to case studies. You can click on these to find out more about women who have successfully completed their training with us and set up their own business.

There are also links to Videos where you can meet a WBDA Trainer and Business advisor, and also meet some Successful clients who have taken part in WBDA programmes. If you are in a centre or college, you may be able to access these without too much trouble, but check with the Centre supervisor. If you are on your own computer then it may take some time to download and you will need the specific software given in the Technical Notes to view them.

The programme is broken down into 15 modules:

Module 1: My Starting Line
Module 2: I am a VIP
Module 3: I need Ideas
Module 4: Is my Business Idea an Opportunity?
Module 5: Identifying my Industry
Module 6: Naming my Business
Module 7: Who is my Competition?
Module 8: How Much do I Need to Start?
Module 9: Finding the Right Customer
Module 10: Costing my Product or Service
Module 11: Setting my Selling Price
Module 12: Managing the Money
Module 13: How does a Cash Flow Work?
Module 14: Identifying Risks
Module 15: Managing my Business

• You will be more assertive and self-confident and willing to try new experiences.
• You will discover new skills and abilities that you can use to start your own business.
• You will know how a business starts and operates.
• You will know how to put together a business plan and appreciate its value everyday in your business.
• You will understand the importance of your customer and marketing.
• You will understand the financial aspects of a business and be able to keep records.
• You will be able to manage your money so that the business can grow.
• You will be able to manage the business.
• You will be able to work with Business and Financial Advisors and to set up action plans to get your business started.
• You will receive a WBDA CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT.

To book an appointment or for more information
Email, write to WBDA or call us on 02476 236 111.