News in Detail
This is where we'll announce the most recent additions to our web site. If
you've visited us before and want to know what's changed, take a look here
first.
Newsletters
(The Newsletters are hyperlinked to the PDF version for printing).
If you would like the newsletter either emailed to you or posted with our
entire schedule every six months, please complete the form
here.
F1 Newsletter -
Autumn 2009
F1 LAUNCHES CRM CERTIFICATION FAST TRACK!
FAST, EFFECTIVE MICROSOFT TRAINING FROM THE COMPANY THAT ACTUALLY
DEVELOPS CRM SYSTEMS - AND A GUARANTEED CERTIFICATION!
It has become even more apparent in this recession that whilst money
is available for IT training, it is more and more difficult to
get time away from the office to attend a training course.
Therefore, we wanted to find a way to make it easier, and quicker, for
you to become an expert in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0.
We are delighted to announce our CRM Certification Fast Track
Courses, designed not just as training courses, but as
career-enhancing certification packages. We have ensured
that F1's fast-track courses are flexible, being trained over 3, 5, 7
and 10 days.
What about course timings? All of our Fast
Track courses run over a slightly longer day, finishing no later than
8pm if you are taking an exam. The 7 and 10 day courses have a
break over the weekend to ensure maximum retention of skills and
knowledge.
What about the trainers? Unlike other
training providers, F1 not only has experienced Microsoft Certified
Trainers taking the classes, but the same trainers also have
real-world installation and development experience on
Microsoft Dynamics CRM including client-site installations and
developing add-on software to enhance the product - they basically do
what you do.
What about the guarantee? At F1, we have
always offered a free re-sit on any
course if you needed it, and for these Fast Track courses we will offer
you the same promise. If you fail your exam, you can re-sit the
relevant part of the course FREE OF CHARGE, until you
do pass.
For more information and outlines of our Fast Track courses, please
click here.
RELEVANT & NEW COURSES ON THE F1 SCHEDULE
-
F1032: CRM Fast Track - Power User; 3 days.
Includes exam MB2-632.
-
F1033: CRM Fast Track - Developer; 5 days.
Includes exams MB2-632 and MB2-631.
-
F1034: CRM Fast Track - Expert; 7 days.
Includes exams MB2-632, MB2-631 and MB2-633.
-
F1035: CRM Fast Track - Guru; 10 days.
Includes exams MB2-632, MB2-631, MB2-633 and MB2-634.
-
MS8879: Using the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step Methodology for
Microsoft Dynamics CRM; 1 day.
-
MS50229:
Understanding the Microsoft Solutions Framework; 2 days.
-
MS6292: Installing and Configuring Windows 7 Client; 3 days.
* FREE SOFTWARE WITH THIS COURSE *
-
MS6294: Planning and Managing Windows 7 Desktop Deployments and
Environments; 5 days.
* FREE SOFTWARE WITH THIS COURSE *
-
MS50219: Introduction to Microsoft Windows 7 for Developers; 1
day.
-
MS50218:
Microsoft Windows 7 Training for Developers; 4 days.
QUALITY AWARD FOR F1 COMPUTING
FOLLOWING AN ASSESSMENT BY AN INDEPENDENT BODY, F1 HAS BEEN AWARDED
ISO 9001 CERTIFICATION. THIS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD IS RECOGNISED WORLD-WIDE
AS A STANDARD FOR QUALITY MANAGEMENT.
Government-supported ISO 9001 has only been achieved by about 5% of
UK businesses, and shows that those organisations have processes in
place to meet customer requirements.
Registration to ISO 9001 demonstrates the existence of an effective
quality management system that satisfied the rigours of an independent,
external audit. In F1's case, QMS International undertook the
assessments.
ISO 9001 has eight core quality management principles, acting as a
common foundation for expected standards. They are:
- Improved consistency with traceability.
- Enhanced customer focus.
- Focused leadership.
- The involvement of people.
- A systematic approach to management.
- Continual improvement.
- A factual approach to decision making.
- Mutually beneficial supplier relationships.
F1 has always been proud of the service we offer our clients, and
now this has been confirmed by outside experts who are used to judging
business standards on a daily basis.
Andrew North of QMS paid particular tribute to "the investment in
people and training that enables F1 to provide an efficient service to
their customers".
This news will be of particular interest to our many clients in the
Defence and Public Sectors, who increasingly require their suppliers to
have this internationally recognised certification.
The scope of our ISO 9001 certification extends to "the provision of
Microsoft training and certification courses". In the near
future, we hope to broaden this scope to the custom development and
business solutions areas of F1.
WINDOWS 7: DO YOU DEPLOY NOW?
Windows 7, the latest and most eagerly awaited generation of
Microsoft's operating system, will be released on 22nd October 2009,
alongside core technologies Windows Server 2008 R2 and Exchange Server
2010.
A recent report from IDC claims that Microsoft will sell 177 million
copies of Windows 7, with 50 million being sold in Europe. By the
end of 2010 they estimate that 1.5 million people in the European IT
industry will be using Windows 7. They also believe that with
training, installation and hardware sales, for every €1 Microsoft makes
off Windows 7, the IT industry will make €19!
However, a survey by ScriptLogic says that 60% of the responding
companies have no plans to deploy Windows 7, 34% will deploy by the end
of 2010 and less than 6% will deploy before the end of 2009.
With different spins being put on statistics, should you deploy now
or later? Well, Microsoft and F1 have a solution.
We are confident that at some point you will be using Windows 7,
whether you are deploying, configuring, developing or supporting it.
So, get ahead of the game and get trained NOW so you are ready when you
do deploy.
Not only will you get the excellent training you have come to expect
from F1, but you will also receive a FREE copy of Windows 7 Ultimate*
and a voucher for the exam.
So, what are you waiting for?
GET TRAINED AND CERTIFIED ON WINDOWS 7 NOW!
* Available with
Course 6292 and
Course 6294 only.
NEXT F1 NEWSLETTER...
Certification Fast Tracks in Visual Studio 2008 and SQL Server 2008,
and information on SharePoint 2010 and Office 2010.
TOP
F1 Newsletter -
Summer 2009
WINDOWS 7 RC IS AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD
If your company hasn’t upgraded to Vista because of your existing
hardware, then you need to look at Windows 7.
We all know that Vista had issues running on some machines designed
for XP, and a lot of companies decided to wait to upgrade their Windows
software due to the cost of upgrading PCs across the organisation. With
so many improvements engineered into it, you should take the time to
look at Windows 7.
Windows 7 is Microsoft’s next generation operating system, and they
have been doing a lot of pre-release marketing with phrases like
“You’ve told us what you want. And we’ve listened”. Fundamentally, the
developers at Microsoft have cleaned out the clutter and have delivered
an operating system that boots quickly, is fast and highly reliable, is
more secure, and works well with your existing applications, devices
and hardware.
A number of F1 trainers and staff have downloaded and been using
Windows 7 RC on their laptops, and the performance, usability and
compatibility are the main talking points. Applications that previously
ran on our Vista machines are now running better using Windows 7. This
was one of Microsoft’s key engineering goals, and they seem to have
achieved it.
The latest news from Microsoft is that Windows 7 will be released on
22nd October 2009. We are sure that you all want to be
prepared for this launch, so we have devised a one-day overview of
Windows 7, with plenty of time for labs where you can test and use the
software yourself. Dates will be available on our website shortly, but
in the meantime, if you are interested in attending this course, please
email F1 at
sales@f1comp.co.uk for details and a course outline.
RELEVANT & NEW COURSES ON THE F1 SCHEDULE
-
MS6289 &
6290: First Look: Windows 7 Beta for IT Professionals - Clinic
& Hands-on Lab; 1 day.
-
MS6291: Updating Your Technology Knowledge of Microsoft Windows
XP to Windows 7 Beta; 3 days.
-
MS80047: Using Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step; 1 day.
-
MS80054: Project Managing Microsoft Dynamics CRM
Implementations with Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step; 2 days.
-
MS6422: Implementing and Managing Windows Server 2008 Hyper-V;
3 days
This course is preparation for MCTS Exam 70-652: Windows Server
2008 Virtualisation, Configuring.
-
MS6331: Deploying and Managing Microsoft System Center Virtual
Machine Manager; 2 days.
This course is preparation for MCTS Exam 70-403: System Center
Virtual Machine Manager, Configuring.
-
MS50028: Installing and Configuring System Center Operations
Manager 2007; 5 days.
SAVE YOUR COMPANY TIME AND MONEY BY GOING VIRTUAL!
SAVING MONEY AND DOING MORE WITH LESS IS BEING ECHOED AROUND
BOARDROOMS AND IT DEPARTMENTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY. VIRTUALISATION IS ONE
OF THE MOST EFFICIENT WAYS OF MAKING THIS HAPPEN.
Virtualisation. Cloud Computing. Server Farms. On-Demand
Scalability. Data Centres. Desktop Optimisation. Hyper-V. Unless
you have been trekking in Outer Mongolia for the past year, you could
not have escaped the latest IT industry buzz words around
virtualisation.
Microsoft virtualisation can be applied to machines, enterprise
storage, networks, applications and desktops, all managed by Microsoft
System Center. Each of these options can save you time and money, but
adopting an integrated virtualisation plan will ensure the maximum
benefit to your company.
Virtualisation is growing so quickly because of the challenges
facing many organisations and the associated benefits they can gain
from having a virtual infrastructure, including:
- Increased server utilisation and decreased server count.
- Improved IT service levels.
- Supported legacy systems.
- Streamlined management and security.
- Reduced application compatibility testing.
Microsoft has a huge amount of information on virtualisation,
including the benefits, price comparisons with VMWare, ROI calculators,
case studies, eBooks and much more. See their site at
www.microsoft.com/virtualization.
In a recent survey by ComputerWorld, 64% of businesses cite
‘improving IT by consolidating their infrastructure’ as a high
priority, but only 7% have currently virtualised their environment.
Adoption of virtual server technology is forecast to rise 17% by
2010, with mid-market organisations adopting the approach ahead of
enterprises. So don’t wait others to overtake you, get the training you
need from F1 NOW!
Current courses are:
6422: Implementing and Managing Window Server 2008 Hyper-V; 3 days.
6331: Deploying and Managing Microsoft System Center Virtual
Machine Manager; 3 days.
7197: Managing Enterprise Desktops using the Microsoft Desktop
Optimization Pack; 5 days.
6428: Configuring and Troubleshooting Windows Server 2008 Terminal
Services; 2 days.
GET YOUR VIRTUALISATON CERTIFICATION NOW!
Microsoft certification is one of the best ways to display your
virtualisation skills. It demonstrates your understanding of the
features of virtualisation technologies and inspires confidence in your
readiness to implement a virtualisation strategy.
F1 offers training resources and MCTS certification in the key areas
of virtualisation management, server virtualisation, application
virtualisation and desktop virtualisation.
Get ahead and showcase your talent with certification NOW! If you
need to discuss which certification would be best for you, give us a
call on 0800 169 1890, or visit our web site at
www.f1comp.co.uk/computer_training/MCTSPRO.aspx
STAR RATINGS ON MICROSOFT CLASS LOCATOR
Have you ever wondered what happens to the course evaluations you
fill out at the end of a Microsoft training course? Up until now, you
were only able to see your own ratings, and had to assume that if there
was a major problem that Microsoft would sort it out.
Microsoft has now decided that you should be able to see how the
training company you choose is rated by its students, and make it
comparable to other training companies.
Found on Class Locator, the course search tool on the Microsoft web
site, each training company has a simple star rating, which is
calculated directly from the student evaluation forms.
www.microsoft.com/learning/classlocator
12 QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK YOUR LEARNING PROVIDER
In a recent Microsoft Learning survey, 78% of respondents said they
prefer to receive training from an authorised training provider (a
CPLS).
If you are unsure that your training provider is a CPLS, or you want
to compare what the training companies offer, we have provided you with
a checklist of twelve questions you should ask to ensure you are
getting the best possible training for your money.
www.f1comp.co.uk/computer_training/12Questions.aspx
NEXT F1 NEWSLETTER...
A look forward to the Microsoft technologies being released in 2010,
and when you can get your first look at them.
TOP
F1
Newsletter - Spring 2009
WELCOME TO THE NEW LOOK F1!
It’s a new corporate image and a brand new web site, but we’ve kept the same
great service and knowledgeable people.
Last year we made a decision to upgrade our look in a way that illustrated
the key areas of our business whilst reflecting F1 as a whole. We also wanted to
make it easier for our clients to understand the different ways we could help
their organisation.
It has taken months of meetings and late nights, but we are delighted to
reveal F1’s brand new look. The new design is based around the origin of our
name - the F1 key has always stood for help. The different logo colours
differentiate the three core areas of F1’s businesses - Computer Training,
Business Solutions and Custom Development, as well as reinforcing the overall
brand image.
This change in look has also been reflected in our brand new web site, with a
clean look home page and easier navigation. The site has been built using new
technologies such as ASP.NET 3.5, ADO.NET 3.5, and XML Web Services, as well as
storing data in SQL Server. This enabled us to create a fully functioning
website, with a great user interface and experience. The creation of the site
also gave our Trainers great hands-on experience with the technologies they
teach on a day-to-day basis.
We wanted to keep all of the information on the pages, which our customers
have informed us they liked, but limit the amount of scrolling required to see
it, so we have created drop-down sections and menus to make it easier. The
detail on these courses is also available, as before, on a 2 page PDF download.
We are pleased with the look we have achieved and the new website, however we
are keen to hear your opinion. So, if you like it, or think of ways we can
improve the web site, then please let us know. We would be delighted to hear
from you. Please email us at
feedback@f1comp.co.uk.
NEW COURSES ADDED TO F1 SCHEDULE
-
MS50047: Advanced IT Pro Course for Microsoft Office SharePoint Server
2007 and Microsoft SharePoint Services 3.0; 5 days.
This is one of the courses that lead to MCTS: Windows SharePoint Services
3.0, Configuring.
-
MS50048: Enterprise Search Solution Architect Workshop; 2 days.
This is one of the courses that lead to MCTS: Microsoft Office SharePoint
Server 2007, Configuring.
-
MS50064: Advanced SharePoint Development; 5 days.
This is one of the courses that lead to MCTS: Microsoft Windows SharePoint
Services 3.0, Application Development.
-
MS50068: Microsoft SQL Server 2008 for the Experienced Oracle Database
Developer; 4 days.
-
MS50145: Microsoft Silverlight 2.0 for Developers; 3 days.
-
MS50147: Tools and Creative Techniques for Designing User Interfaces by
using Microsoft Silverlight 2.0; 4 days.
-
MS50197: Developing Web Applications Using Microsoft Silverlight 2.0; 3
days.
GET A FREE COPY OF MICROSOFT SQL SERVER 2008
SIMPLY ATTEND A SQL SERVER 2008 COURSE AT F1 BEFORE JUNE 2009 AND YOU WILL
RECEIVE A FULLY-LICENCED COPY OF SQL SERVER 2008 STANDARD EDITION FREE.
With the release of SQL Server 2008, Microsoft has delivered a Trusted,
Productive and Intelligent data platform. There are enhancements and new
capabilities engineered into this version to enable your applications to run
better and reduce the amount of time you need to spend managing them. Many of
these new features can provide immediate benefits without the need to make
application changes.
SQL Server 2008 is available in many editions to meet the needs of your
organisation. You can even download the Express version FREE OF CHARGE, which is
ideal for learning and building small server and desktop applications. Download
it at:
www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/2008/en/us/express.aspx
Another way of obtaining a FREE version of SQL Server 2008 is to attend a
training course with F1. After the hugely successful offer on Windows Server
2008 software, Microsoft are offering a copy of SQL Server 2008 Standard Edition
with 1 CAL absolutely FREE when you book and attend one of eight selected SQL
Server 2008 courses before June 2009 (subject to availability).
The courses included in this offer are:
-
2778: Writing Queries Using Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Transact-SQL; 3
days.
-
6158: Updating Your SQL Server 2005 Skills to SQL Server 2008; 3 days.
-
6231: Maintaining a Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Database; 5 days.
-
6232: Implementing a Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Database; 5 days.
-
6234: Implementing and Maintaining Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Analysis
Services; 3 days.
-
6235: Implementing and Maintaining Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Integration
Services; 3 days.
-
6236: Implementing and Maintaining Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Reporting
Services; 3 days.
-
6317: Upgrading Your SQL Server 2000 Skills to SQL Server 2008; 3 days.
VALIDATE YOUR KNOWLEDGE WITH CERTIFICATION
The demand for IT certification has increased dramatically, with Microsoft
alone experiencing a 24% growth in the last year. With an increasing demand for
IT skills, we continually promote the benefits of Microsoft certification for
career development and job satisfaction.
We are committed to provide the best possible, value-for-money certification
route on the market, and include exams and practice exams as well as ongoing
trainer support AND offer a significant discount.
SQL Server 2008 MCTS and MCITP certification routes are available on our
website now, and upgrade routes will follow once the exams are released. So,
start on your path to SQL Server 2008 certification today.
To discuss which certification would be best for you, give us a call on 0800
169 1890, or visit our web site at
www.f1comp.co.uk/computer_training/certification_index.aspx
F1 ADD-ON SOLUTIONS FOR MICROSOFT DYNAMICS CRM 4.0 LAUNCHED
AT CONVERGENCE
As users of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4, we at F1 realise that there are some
functions that require a shortcut, and so we, along with our partner Redware,
developed some software solutions to help businesses run more effectively.
Things like easy address management, two-click label printing, SMS messaging,
and synchronising with Sage Accounts.
These products were showcased at Convergence last November, and we generated
a high level of interest from the attendees. Thank you if you came to visit us
at our stand, it was nice to meet you.
Ideas for new add-on solutions are always being generated by F1’s own staff,
and as a direct result of this, a new add-on will be available shortly that
keeps all notes made on a company or a contact in one place - no more searching
through multiple opportunities.
Have a look at these and more solutions on our web page
www.f1comp.co.uk/business_solutions/
F1 MEETS THE MICROSOFT CPLS STANDARD
As part of Microsoft’s Partner Program, CPLSs are subject to an audit of
their service and training standards.
We are happy to confirm that F1 Computing participated in a review and audit by
the Microsoft Quality Assessment Program in 2008 and was found to have met the
requirements for courseware utilization, trainer certification, hardware,
facilities, and customer satisfaction.
NEXT F1 NEWSLETTER...
Microsoft Virtualisation: what it means for you and what training will be
available and an update on Windows 7.
THE F1 NEWSLETTER IS FOR YOU...
The F1 newsletter is designed to give you the information you need in the way
you want to read it. So, tell us what you want to hear about, which format suits
you best and how often should we send it.
Feedback your comments to Anne Pink, F1’s Marketing Manager, at
annep@f1comp.co.uk.
TOP
F1
Newsletter - Autumn 2008
BREAK THROUGH YOUR SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES WITH
VISUAL STUDIO 2008
It is now easier than ever before to create client, Office, Web and mobile
applications that deliver high-quality, rich user experiences that add to
effective business applications.
With more than 250 new features, Visual Studio 2008 includes significant
enhancements in every edition. Developers of all levels - from individuals to
enterprise development teams - now have a consistent, secure and reliable
solution for developing applications for the latest platforms, the web, Windows
Vista, Windows Server 2008, and beyond.
Visual Studio 2008 uses the Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 to deliver key
advances for developers in three primary areas.
Rapid Application Development. Visual Studio 2008 has improved language and
data features, such as LINQ, to help developers rapidly create modern software.
Developers can also target multiple versions of the .NET Framework from within
the same environment.
Breakthrough User Experience. Developers now have new tools that speed
creation of connected applications on the latest platforms. New technologies
such as ASP.NET AJAX and Silverlight, will enable developers to quickly create a
new generation of more efficient, interactive experiences.
Effective Team Collaboration. With expanded and improved offerings, Visual
Studio 2008 helps improve collaboration in development teams, including tools
that help integrate database professionals and graphic designers into the
development process.
Find out more about Visual Studio 2008 by downloading three white papers,
including the key benefits of visual Studio 2008 and Visual Studio Team System
from our special Visual Studio 2008 web page.
NEW COURSES ADDED TO THE F1 SCHEDULE
-
MS2310: Developing Web Applications using Microsoft Visual Studio 2008;
5 days.
-
MS6460: Visual Studio 2008 Connected Systems: Windows Presentation
Foundation; 3 days.
-
MS6461: Visual Studio 2008 Connected Systems: Windows Communication
Foundation; 3 days.
-
MS6462: Visual Studio 2008 Connected Systems: Windows Workflow
Foundation; 2 days.
-
MS6463: Visual Studio 2008 Connected Systems: ASP.NET 3.5; 2 days
-
MS6464: Visual Studio 2008 Connected Systems: ADO.NET 3.5; 2 days.
-
MS8969: Extending Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0; 3 days.
-
MS80002: Administration in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0; 3 days.
-
MS80003: Workflow in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0; 1 day.
-
MS6438: Implementing and Administering Windows SharePoint Services 3.0
in Windows Server 2008; 2 days.
SHOWCASE YOUR ABILITY WITH MICROSOFT CERTIFICATION.
With new certification routes now available for Windows Server 2008, Visual
Studio 2008 and SQL Server 2008 it has never been a better time to prove you
have the right skills for your job.
In 2006, Microsoft launched their 'new generation' certifications that were
designed to meet objectives expressed by customers to use the latest
technologies and for clearer training paths. Now, Microsoft if clarifying how
these certifications provide on-the-job, career and organisational value.
Like their product range, Microsoft has continued to evolve certifications to
reflect and validate real-world IT skills and experiences used every day by IT
professionals. In a recent survey, Microsoft discovered some interesting
statistics.
- 63% of managers feel certified individuals are more productive in their
job.
- 75% of managers believe that certifications are important to team
performance.
- 40% of workers report that Microsoft certification helped them find a
job or led to a promotion.
- 57% of Microsoft Certified professionals expected to receive pay bonuses
that year.
At F1, we are committed to helping our customers achieve Microsoft
certification. F1 certification packages include associated classroom training,
Transcender practice exams, Microsoft exams, and ongoing trainer support. We
also give you a significant discount to make it affordable, and 18 months to
complete it. For more information on certifications, go to our web page at
www.f1comp.co.uk/computer_training/certification_index.aspx.
LAST CHANCE FOR MCADs AND MCSDs
If you are 'nearly there' with your MCAD or MCSD certification, or an
existing MCAD or MCSD planning to upgrade, you only have until the end of March
2009 to take the relevant exams, otherwise you might lose out. As an incentive
to take these exams, Microsoft has discounted the cost by 40% until they are
retired. You can also register for Second Shot and re-sit the exam FREE if you
fail.
Although Microsoft is retiring these exams, your MCAD or MCSD certification
will remain valid. However all new products, such as Visual Studio 2005 and
Visual Studio 2008 will only be available in the MCTS or MCPD certifications. If
you need some help clarifying your certification requirements or which upgrade
you should take, give F1 a call on 0800 169 1890 or email
sales@f1comp.co.uk.
COME AND SEE F1 AT CONVERGENCE 2008 IN COPENHAGEN.
Convergence is the premier Microsoft Dynamics event, bringing customers,
partners, team members and industry experts together to discuss solutions,
address business needs and establish a community.
This year, Convergence will take place in Copenhagen on 19-20 November and F1
will be showcasing our Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4 add-on solutions. So, come and
see us in the Expo Hall and as a F1 client, you will get a FREE gift.
DOES YOUR COMPANY ALWAYS CHOOSE A CPLS FOR IT TRAINING?
Effective training plays a significant role in the performance of IT workers,
teams and the return on any software investment. Who you choose to fulfil the
training needs of your organisation can make a big difference. In a recent
survey, 76% of customers asked, thought that it was important to use a CPLS to
provide their training.
Microsoft Certified Partners for Learning Solutions (CPLS) are the only training
companies that meet Microsoft's international standards of excellence. F1 has
been a Microsoft Certified Training Centre (in it's various guises) for over 10
years, so with courses sizes limited to just 6 people, you can be sure of
excellent training when you book a course with us.
GET FREE TRAINING FROM F1!
Don't forget that F1 accept Microsoft Software Assurance Vouchers as payment
for most of our courses. Don't let your vouchers run out - contact us today and
get FREE training!
NEXT F1 NEWSLETTER...
The New-Look F1 - same great service and same great people, but a new dynamic
appearance.
TOP
F1 Newsletter - Summer 2008
Microsoft's Web 2.0
technologies are receiving great acclaim from the IT Press, analysts and
developers. So be ahead of the crowd and update your development skills today.
F1 is pleased to announce a NEW exclusive training course: Developing Web
Applications with Microsoft ASP.NET AJAX Extensions. It has been written and is
taught by our new in-house Trainer, Peter Thorsteinson. Peter is an AJAX guru as
well as being an excellent .NET trainer, and was tasked last year by Microsoft
to conduct an AJAX briefing in 20 cities across the USA.
The course is designed for ASP.NET 2.0 web content developers, providing the
knowledge and skills to develop a project using ASP.NET AJAX technologies,
including working with Silverlight and JavaScript. It may also be useful to web
project managers, architects, analysts and designers. We are now accepting
bookings for this 2 day course on 1st November 2007, and with only 6 places
available per course don't delay in requesting your place. If this date is not
convenient, there are other dates available on our web page.
If you are new to web development and want to learn how to code in Web 2.0
technologies, F1 suggests the following courses:
MS4994
- Introduction to
Programming Microsoft .NET Applications with Microsoft Visual Studio 2005 (5
days) or
MS2543 - Core Web Application Technologies with Microsoft Visual Studio
2005 (3 days).
SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS WITH MICROSOFT CERTIFICATION
F1 are committed to giving clients everything they need to obtain a
certification. All F1 routes include Microsoft exams, practice tests and
ongoing trainer support.
The information technology industry, employers, clients and peers recognise
Microsoft Certification as validation of knowledge and skills gained through
experience. In a survey by Burlington Consultants*, Microsoft Certification
increases productivity by 28%, reduces downtime by 18%, and reduces ad hoc
outsourcing by 17%. In the same survey, 55% of managers said they considered
certification a criterion for hiring IT staff.
The new generation of certifications are structured to prove your expertise
in specific technologies or job roles. There are 19 technology certifications, 3
developer certifications and 7 IT professional certifications. Request a copy of
the IDC white paper on the Value of Certification or for more information on
certifications, email sales@f1comp.co.uk.
PRICE REDUCTION ON UPGRADE EXAMS
There isn’t a better time for all you MCADs, MCSDs and MCDBAs to upgrade your
certification! Microsoft has reduced the price of the Visual Studio 2005 and SQL
Server 2005 certification upgrade exams by 40%.
TOP
F1 Newsletter - Spring 2008
HEROES HAPPEN {HERE}
Be part of the worldwide launch of Microsoft's latest products and drive your
business forward. Register to attend one of F1's FREE launch events TODAY.
Visual Studio 2008 delivers on Microsoft's vision of enabling developers and
development teams to rapidly create connected applications with compelling user
experiences for Windows Vista, the 2007 Microsoft Office system, mobile devices
and the Web. It enables collaboration across the development cycle with
productivity breakthroughs in security, utilisation and integration.
SQL Server 2008 provides a trusted, productive, and intelligent data platform
that enables you to run your most demanding mission critical applications,
reduce time and cost of development and management of applications, and deliver
actionable insight to your entire organisation. Your Data, Any Place, Any Time.
Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 business software is a complete customer
relationship management (CRM) and development framework solution that provides
the capabilities that organisations need to gain and retain competitive
advantage in today's business world.
F1 are running launch events in London on 27th March and Bath on 28th March,
and attendees can win FREE software or FREE training. Register on the link below
or contact us on 0800 169 1890 or at
sales@f1comp.co.uk.
NEW COURSES ADDED TO F1 SCHEDULE
-
MS5927: Managing Projects Using Microsoft Office Project 2007; 3 days.
-
MS8910: What's New in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0; 1 day.
-
MS8911: Installation and Deployment in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0; 2
days.
-
MS8912: Customisation and Configuration in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0; 3
days.
-
MS8913: Applications in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0; 3 days.
-
MS6415: Updating Your Network Infrastructure Technology Skills to
Windows Server 2008; 3 days.
-
MS6416: Updating Your Active Directory Technology Skills to Windows
Server 2008; 3 days.
-
MS6417: Updating Your Application Platform Technology Skills to Windows
Server 2008; 3 days.
-
MS6418: Deploying Windows Server 2008; 3 days.
WINDOWS SERVER 2008 - WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR YOU?
Microsoft has reached another important milestone with the release of Windows
Server 2008, forming part of the largest enterprise launch in their history.
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 is the most advanced Windows Server operating
system yet, designed to power the next generation of networks, applications, and
Web services. With Windows Server 2008 you can develop, deliver, and manage rich
user experiences and applications, provide a secure network infrastructure, and
increase technological efficiency and value within your organisation. Windows
Server 2008 builds on the success and strengths of its Windows Server
predecessors while delivering valuable new functionality and powerful
improvements to the base operating system. New Web tools, virtualisation
technologies, security enhancements, and management utilities help save time,
reduce costs, and provide a solid foundation for your information technology
infrastructure.
Combined with SQL Server 2008 and Visual Studio 2008, the products provide a
secure and trusted platform for creating and running your most demanding
applications. The response from IT professionals and developers has been strong
(over two million beta and evaluation versions have been requested) as Microsoft
moves toward the 27th February worldwide launch.
Register to attend a F1 launch event on either 27th March in London or 28th
March in Bath.
ALL MCSE's ON WINDOWS 2000 - UPGRADE NOW!
There is no direct upgrade from Windows 2000 to Windows Server 2008, so you
will need to upgrade to Windows Server 2003 first, and you only have until the
end of March to take the upgrade exams 70-292 and 70-296. If you haven't
upgraded by then, you will need to take all of the Windows Server 2008
certification exams. A F1 upgrade path is available.
FREE MICROSOFT WEBCASTS
We have picked out a few more webcasts which may interest you. Subjects
include: Windows Server 2008 and Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008 Migration,
Security Enhancements in SQL Server 2008 and Unlocking the BI Capabilities of
SQL Server.
TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR TRAINING BUDGET
F1 has training voucher packages of between 20 and 60 days that can literally
DOUBLE YOUR BUDGET. If you have budget to spend or are planning for next year,
increase your profitability and empower your staff by purchasing the training
they need, at the price you want.
GET FREE TRAINING FROM F1!
Don't forget that F1 accept Microsoft Software Assurance Vouchers as payment
for most of our courses. Don't let your vouchers run out - contact us today and
get FREE training!
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F1 Newsletter
- Autumn 2007
-
SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS WITH MICROSOFT CERTIFICATION
-
ALL MCSE's ON WINDOWS 2000 - UPGRADE NOW!
-
FREE MICROSOFT WEBCASTS
-
MICROSOFT DYNAMICS UPDATE
-
GET FREE TRAINING FROM F1!
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8th November 2006
Microsoft Launches Exam Insurance! With Microsoft Exam Insurance, you can
retake a Microsoft Certification exam if you need to. You'll have two chances to
pass and validate your knowledge of critical IT job functions. If you pass on
your first try, you'll receive a 25 percent discount on any future Microsoft
Certification exam. A second chance if you need it. A discount next time if you
don't.
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F1 Newsletter
- Autumn 2006
-
HAVE THE NEW MICROSOFT CERTIFICATIONS CONFUSED YOU?
-
PRE-RELEASE OFFICE 2007 COURSES FROM ONLY £99
-
LEARN HOW MICROSOFT CRM 3.0 CAN CHANGE YOUR BUSINESS
-
WIRELESS INTERNET AVAILABILITY IN ALL CLASSROOMS
-
FREE MICROSOFT WEBCASTS
-
MICROSOFT SOFTWARE ASSURANCE VOUCHERS
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18th September 2006
F1 has partnered with Transcender to provide our customers with the best in
Exam Preparation Software. Transcender is consistently voted No 1 in polls of IT
Professionals for the best exam preparation product.
To celebrate our new partnership with Transcender, for a limited time we are
including this excellent product FREE OF CHARGE for all of the exams on the MCPD
and MCITP routes.
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F1 Newsletter
- Summer 2006
-
THE LATEST INFORMATION ON MICROSOFT DYNAMICS CRM
3.0
-
NEW COURSES ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
-
PREVIEW ON MICROSOFT'S LATEST RELEASES OF WINDOWS, OFFICE AND
EXCHANGE
-
MICROSOFT SOFTWARE ASSURANCE TRAINING VOUCHERS
-
FREE MICROSOFT WEBCASTS
-
MICROSOFT CERTIFICATION UPGRADES
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March 2006
MICROSOFT CRM 3.0 – ½ DAY LAUNCH EVENTS @ F1 LONDON (9/6/06)
AND BATH (26/5/06)
WIN Copies of SQL Server 2005 and Visual Studio 2005 or Free Training
Vouchers at the Launch
Come and see why Microsoft CRM is exciting IT departments and end users around
the world!
Microsoft CRM is THE most user friendly Outlook and SQL based Framework. It
is an ideal choice for building customised solutions which are fully scalable.
Solutions can run Hosted, Online or Offline on PC desktops, laptops and Windows
Mobile devices. You just add the entities you want and CRM handles the difficult
bits!
With over 15 years experience in CRM, F1 is a great partner to help you
implement CRM based solutions embedding SharePoint, dashboards, Office
information bridges and accounts data.
Book Your Place NOW!!
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F1 Newsletter
- Spring 2006
-
F1’s Extra Special
Offer on the NEW Microsoft Certification Routes
-
NEW COURSES ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
-
MICROSOFT CRM 3.0 - THE NEXT KILLER APPLICATION FROM
MICROSOFT
-
MICROSOFT CRM 3.0 COURSES ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
-
MAXIMISE YOUR BUDGET WITH F1 TRAINING VOUCHERS
-
FREE MICROSOFT WEBCASTS
-
F1 BECOMES A MICROSOFT SMALL BUSINESS SPECIALIST
-
MICROSOFT SOFTWARE ASSURANCE TRAINING VOUCHERS
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F1 Newsletter -
Spring 2005
-
F1 BECOMES MICROSOFT GOLD CERTIFIED PARTNER
-
NEW COURSES ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
-
NEW EXAMS ADDED TO CERTIFICATION ROUTES
-
MICROSOFT LAUNCH ENHANCED E-LEARNING INTO UK
-
FREE MICROSOFT WEBCASTS
-
F1 BECOMES MICROSOFT WINDOWS EMBEDDED PARTNER
-
MICROSOFT SKILLS ASSESSMENT FOR ORGANISATIONS
-
FREE EBOOK TO DOWNLOAD
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F1 Newsletter -
Autumn 2004
-
THE FACTS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES
-
NEW COURSES ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
-
WHAT'S NEW IN VISUAL STUDIO 2005
-
MICROSOFT LAUNCH JUMPSTART CLINICS FOR WINDOWS
NT4 USERS
-
NEW BIZTALK SERVER 2004 COURSES
-
ILL-FATED SHAREPOINT COURSE NOW REPLACED
-
NEW MSF ELECTIVE EXAM FOR MCSD.NET AND MCSE
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F1 Newsletter -
Summer 2004
-
THE NEW F1 WEBSITE - EVEN EASIER TO NAVIGATE
-
NEW COURSES ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
-
MOST POPULAR COURSES
-
CERTIFICATION ROUTES NOW INCLUDE SECURITY
OPTIONS
-
WHICH IS BETTER, VB.NET OR C#?
-
MICROSOFT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS - CUSTOMER
RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT
-
A GUIDING LANDMARK
-
FREE MICROSOFT WEBCASTS
-
METRICS THAT MATTER
-
YUKON IS COMING - JUST NOT YET!
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F1 Newsletter -
Spring 2004
-
DO YOU HAVE A PC AT HOME?
-
NEW COURSES ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
-
MICROSOFT HAVE MADE CONVERTING JAVA TO .NET
SIMPLE
-
INFORMATION FOR DEVELOPERS
-
ANOTHER FREE EBOOK
-
MSF DOES MSF!
-
SOFTWARE ASSURANCE UPDATE
-
8% TRAINING BUDGET INCREASE IN 2004
-
F1 DOES C#
-
FASTER THAN A MOUSE?
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F1 Newsletter -
Winter 2003
-
NEW PREMIUM BLENDED COURSE
-
NEW COURSE ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
-
SECURITY: MICROSOFTS NO1 PRIORITY?
-
MCDST - THE NEW MICROSOFT CERTIFICATION
-
ONLINE HANDS-ON-LABS
-
FREE CLASSROOM TRAINING WITH MICROSOFT SOFTWARE
ASSURANCE
-
F1 MAKES GETTING CERTIFIED MORE AFFORDABLE
-
MICROSOFT SKILLS ASSESSMENTS
-
NEW MCSA AND MCSE CERTIFICATION ROUTES
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F1 Newsletter -
Summer 2003
-
HAPPY 15TH BIRTHDAY TO US!
-
NEW COURSES ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
-
TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR CERTIFICATION?
-
NEW MCSD.NET EXAM FREE TO EXISTING MCSDS
-
NEW FAQS ON .NET
-
ANOTHER FREE EBOOK
-
MCSE CERTIFICATION AT YOUR CONVENIENCE
-
THE ONLY TRAINING COURSE SCHEDULE YOU'LL NEED?
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