Mark Russell, Skillnet Association, Victoria
The Skillsnet Association Co-operative Ltd (SNAC) is a Victorian peak body of community education and training providers with a charter to promote Best Practice in the use of information and communication technologies in community development. With 225 members across the state, SNAC exists to co-operatively empower members with the knowledge, skills and resources to participate in and benefit from information and communication technologies for the betterment of their communities. SNAC members combine training and ICT expertise with the delivery of grass roots community services - be they disability services, unemployment services, education services, health services or a combination of these. The provision of these services over a sustained period has built individual members an enviable reputation for integrity and professionalism in community support.
The need for Best Practice in E-commerce training was highlighted in an NTN funded report (e-Barriers, e-Benefits, e-Business) commissioned by SNAC in July 2001. The study undertook to identify the gaps in existing e-commerce and online service delivery training programs, current World's Best Practice in achieving the required outcomes, and to recommend implementation models for application by SNAC members. In early 2002, SNAC will begin work to establish 15 E-Commerce Centres of Excellence amongst its members, each of whom will run a 42 week, 3-phase, e-commerce facilitation program, utilising existing, "best of breed" courseware. The program will include regional pre-delivery workshops and presentations to SME's, participant clustering via industry/special interest groups, and business and technical training delivery.
A 24-week mentoring phase will follow, with registered mentors/advisors available to assist participants in the implementation phase. It is envisaged that approximately 150 SME's will participate in the initial program.
The conference presentation will outline the current state of play, including lessons learned in the delivery of a statewide program across regional Victoria that relies on stable ICT infrastructure, while attempting to incorporate Best Practice examples from overseas.
SNAC is a key facilitator in the community education sector. This pilot project provides an invaluable opportunity to link and promote existing e-commerce and electronic networking initiatives, while documenting Best Practice in a practical way for further use by providers in a manner that is sustainable and meaningful.