Education has been top of our agenda over the last week or so, as my daughter got her ‘A’ Level results. In keeping with many others in the UK, she controversially received them twice, as a consequence of some horrific governmental shortcomings.
She did really well, even better the second set, and is heading off on her new career. We are thrilled.
As soon as the results were out – the first time – into our recycling bin went all her ‘A’ Level notes. Georgina does not waste time or sentiment on holding onto material things.
Which reminded me of what those ‘A’ Levels – this year without the exams – were all about.
Education is what is left over when all the training is forgotten. Georgina has an education, even though all her notes are now in the bin.
This stunning turn of phrase comes courtesy of Nido Qubein, a well-known US motivational speaker and trainer, who is also President of High Point University.
In a world which on the one hand has more material possessions than ever, but on the other has a greater need to innovate, improve and develop, training people how to do things will help. But providing education as to why we do things becomes more important.
Yes, I know I do training. People even enjoy it. But have you noticed my new logo? Its about learning & development, not just training.
What makes training really worthwhile is what is left over, what people carry around with them sometimes unconsciously. That is what drives behaviour, helps improve decision making and provides the innovation which will ultimately provide for all our futures.
What have you learned this week?
Nido’s 3 minute video on this is worth a look.
Buzzwords of the Week – Capex
Capital expenditures (CapEx) are funds used by a company to acquire, upgrade, and maintain physical assets such as property, plants, buildings, technology, or equipment. CapEx is often used to undertake new projects or investments by a company. Making capital expenditures on fixed assets can include repairing a roof, purchasing a piece of equipment, or building a new factory. This type of financial outlay is also made by companies to maintain or increase the scope of their operations.
Alternate View – The real question is not how much it is – but what happens if you do not spend money investing in your business. Big Tech companies in theory need less Capex than say manufacturers but every business will need IT, and will need to innovate its products and/or processes. Look at as a % of revenue or operating profit over a period of time – a decline says they may be running out of ideas.