European Induction Support System for SMEs 

Project number NL/06/B/F/PP/157638

EIS3 project develops the successful results of a previous Leonardo da Vinci pilot project that ended in 2004. The European Induction Support System for SMEs project therefore proposes to build on its recognised strengths and address any weaknesses.

The aims of the project are therefore to:

1. Develop a generic version of the induction analysis tool and the supporting materials which can be used by SMEs from all occupational sectors and easily customised to meet their own particular needs.
2. Translate this all−sector version, together with the existing sector specific materials on Business and Health Care from the previous project, into the major languages of the European Union.
3. Promote these new products to SMEs across Europe by means of a well planned valorisation strategy and high quality marketing campaign and by linking them to other mobility measures and initiatives, particularly those being introduced in 2006 for the European Year of Workers’ Mobility.The most important aim, and the critical success factor, is to market the product widely across Europe by engaging SMEs through national and European associations and agencies. Before this can be achieved a professional product has to be developed that has been validated by SMEs and recognised by them as being effective and efficient.
4. This project supports Programme Objective 3 because it aims at assisting companies in making the transition from a
   single national, local viewpoint to a European perspective. By engaging with this innovative approach companies will
   be able to draw on a much broader skills base. The European Induction Support System for SMEs fits in with Priority 2 because it involves a close partnership between vocational education and small and medium−sized companies, a mutual relationship from which both parties can benefit substantially. Companies would gain from the input of young workers from throughout the European Union and vocational education and training providers by making vocational education more attractive, relevant and effective.

The partnership includes a number of strategic partners to ensure the success of the valorisation strategy. ECABO is a major player in developing vocational standards competencies for a large number of SMEs in some of the largest occupational sectors has excellent working relationships with them. Both Eurochambres EURES have advised the project EURES will continue to do this as a partner. Emilia Romagna as a Chamber of Commerce will lead the project’s relationship with European chambers represent it at Eurochambres events. Community4you has internet development expertise will lead the project’s website development, a key instrument in the dissemination of materials. Other new partners in France and Romania have been selected for their geographical and sector abilities in developing translating the new materials. KENT + MCGILL, an external evaluator in the UK, with a wide experience of large transnational projects will also be a partner act to ensure that the project is effective of high quality.