The course was spread out over 5 months beginning on August 16th.  It is tailored for "Emerging Technology Companies" and we were excited to be chosen for the program described as "The number one short course programme in New Zealand".

Every Tuesday night we gathered eager to practice our 'lift talks', learn new concepts or vindicate current practices.  Each evening we began with a representative from the participating companies presenting a 1 minute 'lift talk'.  The difference from our first attempts to our last was, well, significant.  As a group, we all took pleasure seeing the weekly improvement in these presentations.

The workshops covered topics designed specifically to help us understand all aspects of a business and the efficient / effective running thereof.  The presenters for these were exceptional.  The program covered all areas from Law, Marketing, Management to  Business, Strategic Planning, Cash Flow and Distribution.  Each workshop was well presented and understandable with any questions answered immediately.

Every Wednesday morning we would arrive at work armed with a clearer understanding of the intricacies of a particular business practice.  Sometimes this vindicated current work practices and other times, well, we had a few changes to make.

Each participant is assigned a mentor and we were very fortunate to have Owen Scott from Concentrate Ltd as ours.  His expertise and enthusiasm are quite contagious and we enjoy his inspirational visits.

Wednesday, Dec 7th, was our Graduation Night when we delivered a 3 minute presentation to invited guests from the business community.  We were all excited and eager to give our presentations.  John had threatened to stop us at 3 minutes so we tried to keep within the time allowed, after all, he didn't say HOW he intended to stop us.

We would like to give our sincere thanks to CDC for offering such a brilliant course and to NZT&E for funding it.  Thank you to all the workshop presenters and mentors who have so expertly advised us, especially Owen Scott (Concentrate Ltd) and Patrick Rottiers (PROConsulting Ltd).  Finally, thank you John Hamilton and Jill Taiaroa for your organisation, support and encouragement throughout.  What amazing companies, what amazing people, what an amazing course. Thank you.