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I work as an independent consultant and applications trainer. I've been
doing this since 1995 and it is the culmination of a slowly growing love
affair with computers that began in 1987 with the purchase of my first PC,
an IBM PC/XT.
When I unpacked my brand new computer, a top-of-the range
model with a 20MB hard disk (wow!) and a colour monitor (double
wow!) I was already 37 years old. I had never sat at a computer keyboard
before. The excitement and wonder I felt then has never left me. And
that's why I decided to train.
I'm fascinated by computers and by what they can do. I
love to learn, and when I discover something new the first thing I want to
do is show someone else. This excitement and enthusiasm is what makes me
good at what I do - in fact I'm the best trainer I know!
So what else have I done?
I've been training people computers for a nearly ten
years, but the previous 25 years haven't exactly been wasted. A have a
degree in Plant Science (we used to call it Botany) and I worked for six
years as a research scientist and ecologist. I then spent several years
working in retail management before moving into facility management,
taking time out to run a business of my own for a couple of years in
between.
I've worked for big companies and small ones, always in a
position of responsibility, and this real world experience is
what makes me good at what I do. I can empathise with my students. I've been
there and done that. I understand what they need and know their problems.
I can show them examples that they will understand and relate to.
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My training experience extends throughout the
Microsoft Office suite of programs but I specialise in Microsoft
Access, Microsoft Excel and Office VBA Programming.
Access
- all versions to advanced level (yes, there are still people
out there using Access 2!). Everyone needs some sort of database and
Access is easy to learn and use. I also work as an Access database
developer building databases for a clients in a wide range of
businesses so I have plenty of real-world experience to bring to
my classes. |
Excel
- all versions to advanced level. Excel just keeps getting better.
Whether you're keeping track of petty cash, or performing
sophisticated statistical analyses, Excel can do the trick. In my
role as a consultant I have built many Excel applications for
business clients, bringing valuable practical experience that I
can share with my students. |
VBA
(Visual Basic for Applications) - you've studied your Office
application to advanced level, perhaps you have recorded a few
macros, so what next? The answer is VBA. This programming feature is
built into all the Microsoft Office applications and the Visual
Basic editor makes learning to use this tool a manageable task for
all competent users. VBA really unlocks the powers of Office. |
My knowledge and experience extends well beyond
these three subjects, so if your needs are elsewhere I may still be
able to help. Contact me at martin@fontstuff.com
for further information and advice.
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In addition to my work as a trainer I also provide
consultancy services, primarily involving Microsoft Excel and Microsoft
Access. This can take the form of building applications for clients, or
providing personal advice and training. My skills are wide-ranging and
extend from web site design to VBA programming, and my extensive
experience in science and commerce help me identify with my clients'
needs.
Because I am independent, not working through agencies and
third parties, my fees are more competitive than you might expect - and
"first contact" is always free! If you've got a problem and need
a solution, give me a call. You can e-mail me at martin@fontstuff.com.
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I am based near London, England and whilst much of my work
comes from here I have clients throughout the United Kingdom and overseas.
I have travelled widely both at home and abroad to provide the best
training consultancy services for my clients wherever they are.
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For training I charge a fixed daily rate. For consultancy
I quote for a job, based on how long I think it will take me to complete. To find out what
my services will cost you, contact me at martin@fontstuff.com
outlining your needs and I'll let you know how much you should expect to
pay. I live
in London and do most of my work in the big city, but I often work elsewhere if asked and expenses are charged accordingly.
Most of my training is in the classroom with groups of up
to 10 people (6 to 8 is a good number). You will need to provide the
facilities. I can provide courseware if necessary and can prepare custom courseware
to suit your needs.
My consultancy work is divided between my client's office
and my own, where I have access to my library and all the other resources
I need.
In addition to classroom training, I provide one-to-one
training for individuals. It's becoming fashionable to call this
"desktop consultancy".
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For reasons of personal privacy, I don't want to publish
my address and phone details here. If you want more information please
e-mail me at martin@fontstuff.com
and you'll be guaranteed a prompt reply.
Lets talk!

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