For ten years we have pioneered and honed web writing techniques. We have worked extensively with charities and not-for-profit organisations. This specially tailored one day workshop is a rare opportunity for your colleagues to attend one of the popular public courses at half the normal price - as our contribution to the valuable work you do.
Related links:
Not-for-profit organisations that have attended our courses include:
Diabetes UK, Friends of the Earth, NCVO, RNIP, RNLI, SCVO, The Leprosy Mission, Mencap, Shelter, The Childrens Society, National Childrens' Homes - and many more
Our public course is suitable for people at all levels and experience. Webmasters will pick up the latest tricks and ideas, and hear about what is happening at the cutting edge of web content creation. While those with no web experience will be able to take the course easily in their stride.
Location of the course
The course is located at Westwerks which is 10 minutes walk from Hove Railway Station. 41-43 Portland Road, Hove East Sussex. Directions at westwerks.org.uk.
What you will learn
- How to produce text that engages supporters, clients, funders and volunteers
- The latest ideas and well-proven approaches for improving onscreen readability
- How to make your website easier to use, without breaking the bank
- Practical guidelines that you can pass on to whoever writes your content – whether staff or volunteers.
Credible, persuasive writing
- Adapt your writing style to the web
- Discuss examples of good and bad practice
- Analyse online writing for structure, style and effect
- How to get the message across - some different writing approaches
- Tailor information for different target audiences
- Compile accurate but persuasive headings and summaries
- Write concisely and precisely, putting every word to work
- Stimulate reader feedback and interaction
Very good and professional, I can't wait to go out and put some of the ideas into practice!
"Very enjoyable, lots to take in. Wish it had been longer! Was recommended by a colleague - will be recommending it to others."
Usability
- Understand how to link material clearly through navigation paths and use of hyperlinks
- How to guarantee that everyone will find material on your website
- Find out what works visually in layout and typography on screen
- Judge how much information to present or break down on a screen
- Recognise how to improve readability through design, layout and use of images
Setting control processes
- Identify the criteria necessary for best web communication practice
- Make your own checklist of professional guidelines
- Consider developing a corporate verbal identity
- Foster teamwork in your organisation
Who should attend
- People at all levels involved in preparing or editing copy for websites and intranets
- Communications, editorial, web designers and IT staff
- Project managers and directors
At the heart of the course, we discuss how to create concise copy that your audiences really want to read. We carry out written exercises and give everyone constructive one-to-one help. We think about key target readers and how we need to relate more effectively.
The course material
You get 70 pages of course material (20,000 words). This includes sample web text, exercises, model answers, a reference manual, web site links, bibliography and useful utilities.
"This course met all of my objectives and more. The tutors were very knowledgeable, encouraged questions and were very supportive. My confidence has increased and I have learnt so much that I can't wait to put it into action."
At our public courses we do our best to give advice on participants' web projects but, due to pressures on the day, you won't receive so much personal attention as on a tailored inhouse course. But we can continue to discuss topics by email and phone and would welcome you bringing some sample work for a one-to-one critique.
We know that you will have an enjoyable course, in good company, with a good lunch and will return with clear priorities and a structured approach to producing effective web and intranet pages. Several people have said that this is the best communications course they have ever attended.
Please note: Numbers will be limited. Due to the very low price we recommend you book early.
Price of the course
Places are 250 plus VAT at 2010 rate (£293.75) for the one day course. Price includes 70pp of comprehensive manuals, refreshments and a lunch. We recommend that you bring a laptop computer.
How to book
Download a booking form in Microsoft Word format. Drop us an email to reserve a place and then post the form back with the payment (invoice will be supplied). Booking enquiries to Malcolm Davison on 01444 254780.
More feedback from course participants
"The course on web writing and editing exceeded my expectations. Hardly anything was not of direct relevance. It will give our whole team a great platform on which to build."
"Very enjoyable, lots to take in. Wish it had been longer! Was recommended by a colleague - will be recommending it to others."
"The course was very professionally led. All the key web writing communication principles were covered, along with lots of worthwhile hints and tips."
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