As your company implements new policies and procedures, it is crucial to ensure that your workforce is properly trained in their use. The obvious course in training your employees might be to organize a seminar or training session to knock the training out in one or two simple sessions, but this can be impractical depending on your workforce. Employees could be spread out over a wide area and unable to easily gather in one location. Such a seminar is difficult to schedule for a time when it would not impact some employees’ productivity. Plus, when new employees are hired, they will likely need the same training.
An eLearning solution can avoid these issues. eLearning is not limited by geographic location, and it allows learners to set their own schedules for completing the training, significantly reducing the negative effect on productivity. As new employees are hired, they can complete the training at their own pace as well, so it isn’t necessary to regularly schedule an expensive instructor. Plus, if employees require a refresher course on the new policies, procedures, equipment, or software, they can go through the course again. Whether they are learning about a new procedure that is being implemented for the company, being trained on a new piece of manufacturing equipment, or simply acclimating themselves to a new HR software solution, they have easy access to instruction.
This isn’t to say that eLearning does not have its own challenges. Employees and management are often resistant to change, and it can be difficult to engage e-learners if the program is set up poorly; however, each of these obstacles can be overcome if you recognize and account for them early on. So what are some common challenges and obstacles when it comes to implementing an eLearning program?
1. Initial content creation requires significant investments
Just like any new solution, eLearning requires an initial investment, especially when it comes to content. If you are building your own program from scratch, this can be particularly daunting. The thing to keep in mind, though, is that it is just that—an investment. It costs money at the start in order to save more money down the line. Several pre-made programs are available, which can mitigate these costs, though they still cost money. Just make sure that you keep your organization’s needs in mind as you plan. Don’t overextend and pay for extra features you don’t need, but also make sure that all of your requirements are covered.
2. Communication between student and instructor is more complicated
In a seminar environment, e-learners can ask questions directly of the instructor. With eLearning, it can be more complicated. Learners can usually still contact a course director for specific answers, but they are less readily available, and time is required for those communications. As you plan your eLearning curriculum, keep in mind how reasonable this additional time would be for your employees. If they need information immediately, will there be someone available to answer their questions?
3. The technological skill of the learners can be a limiting factor
While most workers today have at least some familiarity with technology, some still struggle with more complex systems. Fortunately, many eLearning solutions are adaptable, so it may be appropriate to provide a simple interface when the content material itself is simple. Technical help, in the form of auto-help buttons, live chats, emails, discussion forums, or eLearning tutors can also do a lot in making such programs accessible to even the most technologically challenged workers.
4. Many involved may initially resist
The hardest step in implementing an eLearning program might simply be convincing those involved that it is a good idea, and many people are naturally resistant to change. It may be difficult to convince leadership to make the investment. The key here is to sell them on the benefits the eLearning program will offer. E-learners can focus specifically on areas they need help in instead of wasting time on areas they have already mastered. Multimedia has the potential to make information more engaging and easier to understand. You just need to work to convince them.
The hardest part of implementing an eLearning solution comes right at the start, but the challenge often diminishes with time as the company becomes used to it. Not only that, the benefits can far outweigh the problems. By putting in the effort and investment at the beginning, you can build a strong eLearning company that will aid your workforce as it grows for years to come.
