No two elearning programs are the same. Specific issues require exacting solutions.

Developing an asynchronous virtual learning system is not simply a matter of selecting and installing several pieces of software. A complete virtual learning process takes into account a wide variety of issues such as the learners, their technology, the trainer's skills, the subject matter expert's skills, available deployment options, budget, and much more. Each virtual learning issue is affected by its relationship to the others. Since no two virtual learning programs are the same, it's important to begin with a "zero-based" approach without preconceptions. The following are some of the typical areas for which Start-eLearning provides consulting services.

Elearning Orientation

Those who are new to elearning often benefit by an introductory one-day workshop on virtual learning that provides a valuable overview to the technology, skills, strategies, and processes commonly used in the development, deployment, and management of online training. For organizations with varying degrees of knowledge and experience about elearning among their team members or departments, this orientation can provide a successful starting point and solid foundation for program design and deployment. If you are new to elearning, this is the place to begin.

Elearning Program Planning

Defining realistic, measurable virtual learning objectives and developing comprehensive strategies and tactics to achieve those goals is a mandatory step for any successful elearning program. Given the multi-faceted nature of elearning programs from the integration of technology to requisite human resources to thorough planning is critical to anticipating problems and designing a winning program.

Elearning Program Execution

Implementing a new online learning program often requires "engineering a win" to create the momentum that will move it towards success. Pre-mature launches of flawed virtual learning programs can result in major setbacks and slower program acceptance across the organization.

Learning Management System (LMS) Needs and Selection

Not every organization needs an LMS, although most assume they do. Alternative low-cost options can provide critical functions without the expense. In situations where a learning management system is appropriate, searching and selecting the right LMS is like buying a house: it is a complex evaluation process and a major commitment. Consequently, long-term options must be anticipated in the decision-making process.

Learning Content Management System Needs Selection

Both learning content management systems (LCMS) and Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) are valuable additions to the right virtual learning programs. For other programs, these elearning tools are unnecessary and, in some cases, detrimental to the efficient development and operation of an elearning program. Knowing when LCMSs and KMSs add value and when they don't is critical to the design of an elearning program.

Authoring Tool Needs and Selection

The compatibility of elearning authoring tools has brought about a shift in buying patterns: instead of purchasing a single "all purpose" solution, organizations are more often choosing multiple tools that work in combination to deliver the desired type of content.

Elearning Standards Compliance

Elearning standards compliance will be a "non-topic" one day in the future. Unfortunately, we're not there yet. Because elearning standards are still works-in-progress, it's important to understand how they're evolving and why.

Asynchronous, Synchronous & Blended Learning

These terms owe their existence in part to the original overpromise that "elearning will do everything. Obviously, it can't. Instruction-led training (ILT), known as synchronous training, whether delivered in a classroom or across the Internet, can be successfully integrated with self-directed online learning also known as "asynchronous learning" to create blended learning when done correctly.

Instructor-led Training (ILT) to Online Training Transition

For some organizations, the path to virtual learning includes turning classroom instructors into elearning content developers. Some instructors embrace the new role while others openly reject it. Working through this critical juncture can be a major turning point in the adoption and development of an elearning program.

Internal Skill Sets Audit and Discovery

If the internal skill sets necessary to develop and manage a virtual learning program are not immediately available, what do you do? Identifying and acquiring the skills to implement an elearning program need to be done as early as possible in the development of elearning program.

Content Development Process

Each organization's process for developing elearning content is unique. The mix of content developers, instructional designers, subject matter experts, and program managers in combination with various authoring and editing tools and learning management systems can result in a multitude of process options. Defining the most time-efficient and cost-efficient process and, when necessary, multiple processes, is the goal.

Ecommerce Sites for eLearning

As the number of "pay to learn" sites continues to grow, the allure of building a "money machine" is enticing to many. Some succeed, but unfortunately, many crash. Foreseeing and avoiding the hazards of ecommerce elearning sites increase the chances of a profitable business model.

Social Learning Networks

Educators and trainers have used social networking technology for years to strengthen the relationships among remote team members, provide classroom shy "internal processors" an opportunity to enjoy the spotlight online, and to conduct real time discussions with communications like iChat and Instant Messenger. Social learning networks have taken on new momentum thanks to websites like MySpace.com and Facebook.com and their increasing popularity points to the need to consider these communications when designing an elearning program.

Human Resources and Technology Integration

Making sure the necessary development and management skills sets are available or can be readily acquired to sustain an elearning program are an essential step towards a winning program.

Mobile Learning

Sometime referred to as "m-learning" as well as "ubiquitous learning," mobile learning showed promise for training years ago when the use of Palm and Pocket PC platforms were growing in popularity. The convergence of aspects of those technologies with cell phones has renewed the interest in providing "just in time" training to practically anyone, anywhere at any time. Although not applicable to all elearning programs, mobile learning is worth exploring for the right situations.

If your elearning issue is not listed here, please contact Start-eLearning to discuss your situation.