net:gain is a professional development programme that helps leaders of voluntary and community organisations take control of strategic planning and apply it to technology. The net:gain service is offered to the sector through VCS UK online centres. net:gain is not designed for 'techies', but is for anyone who guides the strategic direction of their organisation: Chief Executives, Trustees or high level Managers.

The net:gain programme consists of up to three workshops as well as online support which enable participants to :

• Master a simple an effective Ten Step planning method
• Share issues with experts and peers
• Become a more effective leader of their organisation

Those organisations that undertake the development programme benefit from:

• A whole year's access to a support network
• A reference guide on how to develop their own ICT plan
• Templates and planning tools that will help them make the changes happen
• Mentoring and advice
• Demonstrations of technology that maybe useful to their organisation

And

• Discounts on training, services and equipment.

The mix of services offered will depend on your local market need, and on maximizing local opportunities and partnerships. This approach helps to develop support programmes which offer  exactly what local VCOs want, which include other offers in the area, and which give each net:gain centre the chance to develop a sustainable, income-generating service for the future, as the VCO market for ICT services matures.

net:gain delegates also get discounts on services and goods nationally and locally.

When you have finished the net:gain programme you will be able to:

• demonstrate to funders and stakeholders that your ICT plans link into your mission and offer direct benefit to those you serve
• understand and harness the potential of ICT for your organisation, to inform current and future plans
• identify areas where ICT can improve business practices and service delivery
• identify people who can help you
• understand the full costs of ICT ownership, and put in place plans to cover these
• say NO to ICT options that do not fit your strategy and your priorities
• get the most out of any ICT investment you decide to make

For background info, click here.