Management for Professionals

This book takes the reader through real-world examples for how to characterize and measure the productivity and performance of NFPs and education institutions—that is, organisations that produce value for society, which cannot be measured accurately in financial KPIs. It focuses on how best to frame non-profit performance and productivity, and provides a suite of tools for measurement and benchmarking. It further challenges the reader to consider alternative and appropriate uses of quantitative measures, which are fit-for-purpose in individual contexts.

It is true that the risk of misusing quantitative measures is ever-present. But does that risk outweigh the benefits of forming a more precise and shared understanding of what could generate better outcomes? There will always be concerns about policy and performance management. Goodheart’s Law states that once a measure becomes a target, it is no longer a good measure. This book helps to strike a meaningful balance between what can be measured, what cannot, and how best to use quantitative information in sectors that are often averse to being held up to the light and put on a scale by outsiders.

This book provides an in-depth introduction to crisis management and leadership in SMEs, as well as methods, approaches and cases against the background of different crises; external ones in particular. Featuring contributions from research and practice, this book covers a plethora of SMEs from different sectors to match the diverse nature of small business practice. The combination of a sound theoretical framework for small firm crisis management along with practical instruments/methods and cases, help to improve the organizational resilience of SMEs. The authors also guide the reader to resources beyond the book, including an online “Crisis Toolkit” comprised of material such as further publications, crisis management blueprints, guidelines, checklists, and company cases on crisis management-related issues.

Discover a transformative book that equips aspiring 'researcher entrepreneurs' with invaluable strategies to avoid common start-up mistakes. Unveiling a fresh perspective, it emphasizes that technological researchers already possess critical entrepreneurial traits, merely needing the right approach to succeed. From preparing and setting up a tech start-up to illuminating best practices, this book sets you on the path to triumphant technological entrepreneurship.

This essential guide tackles the paradox of start-up failures, even after a very promising start, providing insights into how to overcome internal and external problems and obstacles and secure a thriving future. Tailored for researchers aiming to commercialize their technology by setting up a start-up and for technology transfer strategists supporting academic commercialization, the book ensures clarity by avoiding jargon and employing real-life case studies and exercises. Decision-assisting activities such as a "Commercialization Readiness Index (CRI)" and a "Market-prioritization Decision Matrix" offer valuable tools to help a researcher become a successful entrepreneur.

Whether you're a seasoned researcher or an aspiring entrepreneur, this book will empower you to harness your potential, turning visionary ideas into flourishing businesses. Embrace the entrepreneurial journey and embark on a transformational ride towards success in the dynamic world of technological entrepreneurship.

This book guides readers on how to apply for EU-funded projects, such as Erasmus Plus and Horizon, and how to implement projects successfully upon receiving funding. It describes and discusses implementation and problem management using ‘real world’ examples, particularly lessons learned when the authors managed an Erasmus-funded project called Student Stress Training e-Mobile Management (SSTeMM) during the COVID-19 lockdown. The book takes readers through the entire project process, from formulating an idea, building a partnership, writing and submitting a grant application, to project implementation and writing the final report for the EU funding agency. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of understanding the structures and priorities of different EU funding agencies for a successful funding application. The book provides an accessible and detailed guide on managing common challenges when preparing and applying for EU funding and suggests improvements the EU could make to reduce stressors and support applicants' well-being.

The book targets researchers and staff of educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, SMEs, and anyone who submits funding applications to programs sponsored by the European Commission, either directly or through designated national agencies in each European Union member state.