Skillpad -

Why e-Learning?

Broadly speaking, e-Learning is any learning activity that is facilitated and supported by electronic means, for example accessing a learning program using a computer.
Using e-Learning has advantages for both learners and training providers.

One of the biggest advantages for learners is the self-paced interactive nature of a good e-Learning program. e-Learning programs that combine graphics, animation, sound and interactivity increase learner engagement and the likelihood of new information being retained. The self-paced nature of the medium means that learners can learn at their own pace and in their own time.

If you invest large amounts of money or new processes, systems or products, you will not reap the benefits of this investment if staff are unable to use these resources efficiently.

For training providers, e-Learning has attractive JIT (Just In Time) benefits. It enables learning on a need-to-know basis compared with say a three-day instructor-lead class which attempts to cover everything that an employee may possibly need to know. Even then, the new knowledge may not actually need to be applied for weeks or months ahead by which time it may be forgotten.

With e-Learning such a scenario is easily avoidable as employees can access new knowledge just before they need to apply it without the need to arrange new classes, instructors, substantial time off the job, etc.

e-Learning also enables training to be done on a much greater scale, quickly and efficiently. This is especially important if your company has made big investments in new resources such as equipment and processes. The quicker employees are able to able to efficiently use these resources, the quicker you will reap the benefits of your investment.

Why Custom Content?

Custom courseware (also called 'bespoke' software) is courseware that is specific to your organization. This is the opposite to generic or 'off-the-shelf' courseware which is designed for use across multiple companies and organizations and usually addresses topics that are common across many businesses e.g. communication skills, sales skills, employment regulations, etc.

However, if you require your employees to build knowledge and insight into your own particular equipment, processes or procedures, then a bespoke program is a must. The key reason is context. Using generic e-courseware can result in employees failing to understand how they can apply new knowledge to their own work situation. Achieving understanding and application requires customization.