CCS Articles
CCS Candy Training Course Cost - A Buyer's Guide
Written by Kobus le Roux
I know that deciding to invest in training can be a significant choice. This guide aims to provide you with unbiased and reliable information about the costs associated with a CCS Candy Software training course or any other training course for that matter. My goal is to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and budget.
Training Cost: Why is there such a big difference?
Have you ever wondered what's included in the price of a training course? Or why the cost can differ drastically between providers?
These are valid queries that are often overlooked in our industry. In researching this topic, I did a quick search on a software training course and found prices ranging from R699 ($40) to R30,995 ($1,800). Remarkably, these varying prices were attached to courses with similar outlines, timeframes and learning objectives.
Here's a little-known truth: training course prices are largely value-based, sometimes even arbitrary. Many companies employ pricing as a marketing tactic, using high costs to suggest superior quality or to match competitor prices without necessarily providing additional value.
So, as a potential learner, how can you guarantee you get the most for your money?
What to Consider When Evaluating Training Cost
Several factors can influence the value of a software training course relative to its price. While it would be impossible to detail all of them here, let's focus on some key elements that significantly impact course prices:
- Course format or method of delivery of the training
- Course content and duration
- The instructor's experience and expertise
- The certification / accreditation the course provides
The Course Format or Method of Delivery of the Training
Training can be delivered in three primary ways, each having a direct impact on cost:
- Live In-Person Training
- Live / Instructor-Led Online Training
- On-Demand, Online Video Training
Let's explore how each method influences course pricing:
Live In-Person Training
This traditional method involves an in-person classroom setting. Factors contributing to its cost include the instructor's time, venue rental, refreshments, and printed materials. Depending on location and amenities, the cost for a 2-day session with 20 participants can range from R800 - R2,000/person. Travel and accommodation expenses need to be factored in if the training location is not local.
Live / Instructor-Led Online Training
This method brings the classroom to you via video services like Zoom or MS Teams. It's generally cheaper than in-person training, as there are no venue, food, or printing costs. On average, the cost per person for a 2-day live online session of 20 people ranges between R300 and R1,000/person.
On-Demand, Online Video Training
This is the most cost-effective method, allowing you to access pre-recorded sessions at your convenience. While there are no venue or travel costs, maintaining a learner management platform can add expense. On a reliable platform, the base cost could be about R300/person, depending on the yearly volume of trainees.
Related Article:
CCS Candy Planning Software training: Online vs Live Course. Which one is the best for you?
Course Content and Duration
The course content, which directly addresses different learner needs and skill levels, forms the core of your training. Beginner-level courses designed to familiarize you with software basics will generally be cheaper than comprehensive, advanced-level training.
While a high-level course with many modules may have a higher price due to increased resource requirements, length does not always equate to quality. Always inspect the curriculum thoroughly to ensure it matches your learning objectives. I've personally attended 3-day long courses that were poorly conceived and which I felt could have been done in a day.
Experience And Expertise Of The Instructor
Instructor expertise can directly impact the price of a course, both in terms of cost and value.
In terms of cost - the cost component is determined by the time the presenter spends developing, maintaining and presenting it, multiplied by the presenter's actual charge-out rate per hour. Accordingly, an industry expert or highly experienced professional will likely charge more than a less-experienced instructor due to their actual hourly rate in the industry.
On the value side, certain instructors bring specific knowledge and insights to the table that is valuable to you personally or has a high perceived value. This may be because of the scarcity of their knowledge or actual value of their knowledge in an industry or to your own career.
For instance, I've once had a two-hour session with an expert on certain issues I experienced with a planning software application. The expert's fee was R2,500/hour but it allowed our company to apply the knowledge on a specific portfolio for a client which in turn generated a larger revenue for us over many years. For me personally the value I got for the money spent was worth it.
Therefore, it's always a good idea to do some background checks on the instructor and to gauge the personal value of their knowledge to you. This could involve checking their LinkedIn profile or content outputs, establish what their service or knowledge actually cost in the industry. You could also read about their professional achievements, or look at other courses they have taught.
The question to ask is whether their knowledge is personally valuable to you and worth the asking price?
Course Certification or Accreditation
Courses from universities or accredited institutions often carry a premium for their validation process.
However, don't assume accreditation guarantees course quality or instructor expertise. Sometimes, certification may not enhance your learning experience.
If you're seeking to acquire new skills for career advancement, an accredited course may not be necessary. However, if you're pursuing a specific certification, accumulating credits for future study, or earning CPD points, accreditation becomes crucial.
Of course, this means adjusting your budget to accommodate the additional cost.
Don't Be Misled by Perceived Value
Some companies inflate course prices to create an illusion of high quality. This pricing strategy can make costs seem arbitrary, especially when not reflecting the course's actual content or the instructor's expertise.
Some providers may have high operational costs due to factors like large teams, office rentals, or marketing investments. These expenses, while not directly related to course quality, may be reflected in their pricing.
Be careful of companies who simply try and add perceived value to their course offerings.
As consumers we often perceive expensive products as superior, and the same applies to training courses.
Making the Right Choice for Your Budget
- Choose a course format that fits both your budget and your preferred learning style. For live-classroom courses, remember to factor in accommodation and travel costs.
- Examine the course curriculum and duration to ensure it aligns with your learning objectives. Remember, length does not necessarily equal quality.
- Research the course instructor. What is their industry reputation and personal value to you? Does their expertise justify the course price?
- Decide whether you need an accredited training course or simply seek knowledge. This will depend on your learning goals and reasons for training.
- Once you understand your needs, compare prices for your preferred training in the market and inquire about their pricing structure.
- Consider any 'extras,' such as networking opportunities, bonus content, or reputable certification. Assess their personal value to you and whether they justify the cost.
- What guarantees does the training provider offer? Since many factors influence the quality and price of a course, it's important to have some protection, like a trial period or money-back guarantee if you're dissatisfied.
This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about investing in CCS Candy Software training. Always remember, price doesn't indicate value or quality. Your focus should be on finding the right course for your needs, not just the cheapest or most expensive one.