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Purpose
This document describes how we can ensure the preparedness, response, and recovery from emergencies affecting our ability to deliver our services in a physical office or training centre. In the event of a health-related, political, or natural disaster emergency, we must be capable of continuing the effective provision of our services with minimal disruption in a manner that is safe for both our staff and our clients.
Current Context
As the 2024/2025 timetabling season approaches, our priority remains the safety of our employees and our clients, along with our ability to deliver the highest quality outcomes on all of our projects. Timetabling Solutions has identified three different scenarios outlined below in which we will operate.
- Scenario A
Geelong and Brisbane office closed, with training and consulting completed online - Scenario B
Geelong office closed, with Timetabling Solutions staff working remotely with schools.
Brisbane office open, maximum of 2 participants per consultation.
Limited in-person consulting sessions occurring off-site to minimise inter-mingling.
Training continues to be online - Scenario C (Current and Ongoing Scenario)
Geelong and Brisbane offices open. Limited in-person state-based training
The information below outlines how online interactions will be managed, along with best practices to ensure that you get the most out of your online consultation or training.
We have also provided answers to some frequently asked questions.
Scenarios that involve online delivery:
Interaction:
- A pre-course technical call is completed to ensure you are set up
- Conducted live with screen-sharing, using Microsoft Teams
- Webcam is preferred
- Multiple participants at different locations are supported
Recommendations for Best Practice:
- Strong internet connection (8Mbps download, 1.5Mbps upload and ping less than 130ms, you can test your internet speed here)
- To ensure that you have the best possible experience, we recommend using two monitors with a headset to minimise background noise
- A block of time free from all interruptions
Frequently asked questions
Why are so many of your services being delivered online when other companies are back in the office?
Given that travel for both our staff and our clients is a major component of the services we offer, we are actively looking to avoid situations in which our services are interrupted, particularly given the timebound nature of school timetabling.
What should I do if I do not have a strong enough internet connection at my school?
To avoid frustrations, it is best to relocate to a venue with a stronger internet connection. Some clients have completed their consultations from home or have hired an off-site venue for the duration of the consultation.
Why is it important that I am not interrupted during the consultation?
The level of engagement will alter throughout the consultation, however, the consultation fee is determined by the time taken, and interruptions increase the time.
Will training courses still be available?
We will continue offering Instructor-led online and limited In-person training courses – visit our website for dates and availability. Please note that to ensure a high-quality service, the ratio of participants to trainer has been reduced for our online offering. If you are interested in a training course that is already full, please contact our office to see if an additional course may be run.
Will an online consultation affect the quality of my timetable?
Timetabling Solutions has been successfully delivering consultations online for several years. Improvements to online meeting software and increased normality of using a webcam now has many clients identifying additional advantages to being in-person. Reduced travel and being available to talk with their staff at the end of each day are the most commonly reported.