How To With E-Learning and E-Training

The development and implementation process of an E-Learning or E-Training system is very similar to that of any information system. The process itself consists of a few steps that are key:

1. Do a Needs Analysis
2. Development
3. Testing
4. Implementation

Step 1 of this process is the Needs Analysis. This step includes determining what the problem is and if a E-Learning or E-Training program is the appropriate solution. If so the company should identify the primary objective of the system, decide on a target audience and if it will be able to support a more customized system or be more comfortable with a cookie cutter system that allows for limited customization. Lastly a company should weigh the financial investment against the overall benefit the program will provide and choose the program that fits it best.

Step 2 of this process applies to a more technical aspect. At this stage developers perform a content analysis, gather and collect data, determine the format and presentation of the content, and create this content online. This process can be made very simple with the use of a "box system" per say with predetermined outlines or more complex with a customized system.

Step 3 is the Testing stage and also the most important. At this point the Program has been designed and developers should be making sure it is compatible with the business and that the system meets all the determined objectives. Also testing should ensure that the user interface is clear cut and does not require users to have unreasonable skills and knowledge. A sufficient amount of time should be spent on this stage to verify that the program runs properly and suits the needs of the company. To short-change the testing stage or skip it all together could lead to an avoidable disaster.

Step 4 is the Implementation stage. This stage is as the title suggests. The program is introduced to the company. A business should determine if it will switch over completely at one time or slowly work the new program into play. This choice should be made very carefully considering the amount of influence it can have financially and in the overall success of the program. this stage also consists of routine evaluations, maintenance, and updates to keep the program up to date and running properly.

E-Learning and E-Training programs have many benefits but may not be for everyone. A great deal of time, effort, and consideration should be taken before deciding to take on the investment.