International Preparedness Programme

Description and how it can help

The International Preparedness Programme (IPP) supports companies by helping them develop key skills in a range of international business activities, equipping them with the knowledge to operate internationally.

Scottish Development International runs the IPP on two levels:

1. Introductory level - targeting companies who are relatively inexperienced in international trade. The introductory level aims to establish more structured international trade activities through development of business practices and processes.
2. Advanced - targeting companies with more experience of international trade. The advanced level aims to develop deeper understanding of internationalisation opportunities.

Delivery of the programme

• Run as a series of modules and delivered to groups of 10-12 companies.
• Targeted at employees with responsibility for international trade activities in their company.

Content

The Introductory Programme takes groups through a series of 12 modules, covering both theory and practice in the following key areas of international business:

• Market research.
• Market identification.
• Support agencies.
• Production issues.
• Finance and pricing issues.
• Advertising/promotion issues.
• Developing an international culture.
• Distribution channels and method of market entry.
• E-Business aspects of international trade.
• Trading and contractual terms.
• Sales negotiation skills.
• Producing and presenting an international action plan.

The Advanced Programme takes participants through a series of 6-8 in-depth modules covering some of the following topics:

• Finance and international value pricing.
• Distribution channels and contracts.
• E-Business.
• International sales skills.
• International communication/ marketing skills.
• Getting the best out of exhibitions and missions.
• Licensing / franchising deals.
• Strategic alliances / joint ventures.
• Acquisitions.
• Managing overseas operations.
• Presenting an international market development plan.

Any partners or partnership working involved

This product is managed by Scottish Development International - funded by Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Government.

Point of contact/web link for more information

For more information, tel. 0141 228 2828 or email investment@scotent.co.uk