The Rollercoaster Ride of Grant Applications: Triumphs, Tears, and Tenacity The world of grants and tenders can feel like a high-stakes lottery – applications fly out the door, but only a select few secure funding. But behind the cold statistics lies a human story, a narrative woven from triumphs, tears, and unwavering tenacity. In “Grant […]
Author: Maria Birse
Uncovering Truths: 3 Stories of Dispelling Myths in Grant and Tender Writing
Grant and tender writing often comes with its fair share of myths and misconceptions. These myths can cloud our judgment, hinder our progress, and even prevent us from achieving success in securing funding for our projects. However, by shedding light on these misconceptions and sharing stories of real experiences, we can dispel these myths once […]
5 REASONS TO EMBRACE MULTIFACTOR AUTHENTICATION
The significance of cybersecurity for small businesses cannot be emphasised enough. As businesses continue to depend on online platforms, the importance of strong security measures becomes crucial. One key defence mechanism is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). MFA is part of the Essential Eight Mitigation Strategies developed by Australian Signals Directorate (ASD). In this blog, I’m going […]
6 Reasons for Cybersecurity Awareness in Small & Micro Businesses
In today’s digital age, small and microbusinesses are facing a growing risk of cyber threats. It is imperative for these enterprises to prioritise cybersecurity awareness to protect their operations, data, and reputation. In the financial year 2022-23, the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) responded to over 1,100 cyber security incidents from Australian entities. Separately, nearly 94,000 […]
5 Reasons Not to Use ChatGPT for Grant Writing
While there are so many uses for using Large Language Models such as ChatGPT for writing, here are five reasons why you might need to exercise caution when grant writing: 1. Lack of Domain-Specific Knowledge I agree, ChatGPT is a versatile language model designed to handle various tasks; however, it doesn’t have access to real-time […]
My presentation at QUALCON 2023
I gave a presentation titled Blockchain & Clinical Trials at the QUALCON 2023 conference in Geelong, Victoria. I was excited when preparing my presentation as I see that fraud exists in supply chains. I chose the topic of clinical trials as I have seen that there is great benefit using blockchain, particularly from a quality […]
Debunking the Myth about Quality Assurance
Quality Assurance (QA) often bears an undeserved reputation for being laborious. As someone who is passionate about QA, I want to debunk misconceptions and highlight the positive aspects that QA specialists bring to any organisation. 1. Debunking the Myth: Burden versus Collaboration There is the belief that QA adds an extra workload. This is a misconception. […]
Quality Assurance & Child Rearing
Quality Assurance & Child Rearing I am a Quality Assurance (QA) specialist in quality management systems (QMS) such as ISO 9001: 2015. I’m a parent with two children. I love drawing parallels different aspects of my life, and so here’s a parallel about my role in quality assurance and child rearing. A QA Parent – […]
Quality Assurance & Exercise
I am a Quality Assurance (QA) specialist in quality management systems (QMS) such as ISO 9001: 2015. I go to the gym. I’m not a gym junkie or a fitness freak. It’s a good habit that I have formed and the exercise makes me feel good. (And I am yet to experience an adrenaline rush). […]
Quality Assurance & Volunteer Work
Volunteer Work is a Form of Quality Assurance that Ensures Moral & Ethical Standards I am a Quality Assurance (QA) specialist in quality management systems (QMS) such as ISO 9001: 2015. I am a passionate volunteer. I have been volunteering in different roles throughout my adult life. I love drawing parallels different aspects of my […]