5 useful resources for SMEs
Date published

22 September 2021

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5 useful resources for SMEs

Blog

Date published

22 September 2021

We have a variety of resources, guides and live-events designed to support structural engineers working as sole practitioners and those in SMEs

The Business Practice Note series

Developed by the Institution’s Business Practice and Regulatory Control Committee to provide guidance on aspects of running a practice and project management. The series covers almost every question you could think of when getting started in an SME. 
Browse the series The Business Practice Note series

Introduction to digital design tools

Ashley Kacha gives an overview of future trends in structural engineering. The video presentation covers computational design tools and how they are being used across the industry, the importance of digital workflows, and what other relevant resources are available from the Institution. The presentation was recorded during the Small Practitioners Conference 2019.
Read resource Introduction to digital design tools

Dealing with domestic clients

This half-day course assists engineers working in the domestic sector for householders or small businesses.

By the end of the course, you should be able to:

  • Agree and record clear, enforceable agreements with non-professional clients with no technical background and limited experience
  • Recognise the ‘consumer protection’ background
  • Recognise and avoid misunderstandings around fees and variations, delays, and your own and the contractor’s responsibility
  • Respond to complaints correctly
  • Communicate effectively and get paid more easily
Book your place Dealing with domestic clients

The importance of making numbers based decisions

In this video Parag Prasad discusses the metrics to use for measuring the success of your business. He goes beyond financial outcomes and looks at multiple aspects of growth areas. Do you know the score in your business?
Watch now The importance of making numbers based decisions

Staff development: the value to you and your SME

Jenny King highlights how your business can thrive when you focus on improving your employees' skill sets. A presentation from the Small Practitioners Conference 2019. Jenny covers a range of topics on staff development including: the importance of upskilling, the impact of a skills gap and what employees are looking for.
Watch now Staff development: the value to you and your SME

Related Resources & Events

Regional
Promotional flyer for a 2027 Concept Design Course by The Institution of Structural Engineers, featuring event details and a QR code.

Concept design course 2027: chartered membership exam preparation

Concept design course 2027: chartered membership exam preparation

A 10-week evening course building the concept design skills needed for the Chartered Membership exam.
Date – 28 January 2027
Location – Ramboll, Cornerblock, 2 Cornwall Street Birmingham, B3 2DX
Price – £300
Regional Group
Structural Awards 2024 gala event attendees are photographed whilst posing in front of the camera

Grab-a-Grad Event at University College London

Grab-a-Grad Event at University College London

Ready to take the next step in your career and grow your professional network? Join us at our Grab-a-Grad event for an evening of networking, inspiring conversations and meaningful connections with structural engineers shaping the world around us. It’s a great opportunity to meet industry professionals, exchange ideas, gain insights into different career paths and build valuable connections in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. And what’s networking without a few refreshments? Enjoy some light bites and drinks while making new connections! We look forward to welcoming you for an evening of conversation, inspiration and opportunities. We hope to see you there!
Date – 24 November 2026
Location – University College London
Price – Free
Regional Group
Students in lecture hall

Completing the path to Qualification – Advice for candidates and supporters

Completing the path to Qualification – Advice for candidates and supporters

Getting the best preparation for your IPD Submission.
Date – 26 November 2026
Location – The Institution of Structural Engineers
Price – Free