PLATO™ New Zealand - FAQ

What is PLATO™?

PLATO™ is a new business peer support and mentoring programme being introduced to New Zealand in June 2008. The programme is aimed at owner-managers of small and medium sized business (SMEs) and offers a structured learning framework, access to different experts and networking opportunities tailored specifically for the needs and demands of growing businesses.

Is PLATO™ just another training programme?

No. PLATO™ is different from other training programmes, and PLATO™ New Zealand is designed to complement the existing training and mentoring programmes already available for owner-managers of SMEs. One of the unique aspects of PLATO™ is that while the programme covers all the key elements of running a successful business, the overall direction of each network is determined by the participants involved.

Why is PLATO™ only available in Auckland?

Why not just start the programme properly?

A pilot programme allows everyone involved to trial the programme in one part of New Zealand and learn about the programme in detail before we explore the option of rolling it out nationally. It also gives us the opportunity to identify areas that might need changing or improving.

What will happen at the end of the pilot?

Group Facilitators:

Who are the group facilitators?

We are still in the process of recruiting these, but the four group facilitators (two per group) will be recruited from larger organisations. Group facilitators will be confirmed by early April.

How are the group facilitators chosen?

Group facilitators will be chosen based on a combination of their business management knowledge, their willingness to learn and commit their time and energy to the programme, and the relevant skills that will enable them to succeed in a facilitation/mentoring role. Group facilitators must also have the support of their wider organisation.

Are group facilitators given any training?

Do the group facilitators get paid?

No

Sme Participants:

What type of training do I get as part of the programme?

The PLATO™ programme training covers all the key elements of running a successful business, but content direction is largely driven by the participants. Content may include strategy and business planning, sales and marketing, accounting and finance, tax, human resource management, raising capital and export.

PLATO™ focuses on group participants working together, and with experts and trainers, addressing the strategic and real-world issues confronted by growing businesses. The programme provides a more formal learning environment, interaction with experienced managers from larger organisations, and a forum to discuss ideas, challenges and issues with like-minded companies

PLATO™’s success internationally is largely because it is a model that allows business to test their strategies against a sounding board of those who have ‘been there, done that’ and more importantly against companies who are at a similar level of development.

Is there an application process I have to go through to participate?

Yes. Participants must be owner-managers of an SME which has been operating for at least 3 years and must be willing to commit their time and energy to taking their business to the next level. Eligible applicants will be required to complete a questionnaire following which an applicant shortlist will be generated. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed in order to establish their acceptance into the programme.

How many people are in each group?

There will be 10-12 participants in each group or network, and each group will have two facilitators.

How much does the programme cost?

The programme is $2000 per participant, payable at the beginning of the programme.

How many people from the same company can join?

Only one owner-manager from each company can participate.

Will I get the same level of training as someone participating in the UK or is the NZ programme different.

Who is responsible for PLATO™?