|
|
|
|
"We can build e-learning courses internally. How hard can it be?"
In an effort to save money, many companies decide to build and deliver their own e-learning programs.
Most of the time, they will use presentation programs such as PowerPoint™ or web-design applications such as DreamWeaver™
to create their programs.
There are many challenges with this approach to e-learning development.
Often times, companies spend more using internal staff to create e-learning programs than they would have
by outsourcing to e-learning experts.
Creating e-learning courseware requires a fine synthesis of professional instructional design methodology,
advanced technological expertise, and graphical creativity. Assuming that your IT or Training
Departments can create effective e-learning courseware could potentially ruin your project before it starts.
"We have a server network. We can buy a learning management system and deliver the e-learning courses ourselves."
Many off the rack learning management systems are inexpensive and fairly easy to implement.
However, buying the wrong LMS software, or using your current network hardware to deliver the training can cause major problems.
First, you must have a clear understanding of your LMS requirements.
This includes factors such as:
Data collection and reporting requirements
User scalability requirements
Course functionality requirements
Course size and bandwidth requirements
Security requirements
It is also important to quantify how e-learning usage will affect your current network capability.
E-learning courses can be very large and when you combine that with a large number of students,
your network may not be able to handle the increased traffic. A good solution for these issues is to implement
a hosted LMS that is accessed via the internet.
Hosted LMSss require no hardware or software purchases and many can be customized to meet your exact needs.
Because the system is hosted by a 3rd party, your IT department never has to worry about maintaining the software or server network.
Hosted solutions are generally more scalable as well. As your company grows, the LMS and hosted network can grow with you without costly hardware or software purchases, installation, and maintenance.
"We don’t need custom e-learning courses. We can purchase existing ones."
Off-the-shelf training programs can be very effective for a relatively low cost. If you are teaching general information,
such as the basics of accounting, off-the-shelf programs are perfect.
But what if you want to train your employees on your specific accounting practices? The most effective training programs
are those that utilize company-specific scenarios and information to highlight the general course objectives.
This result is only obtained by customizing the e-learning courseware to your organizational needs and goals.
|
|
|
Home | 
Sitemap 
