Do you have one "expert" in your office who seems to spend a good portion of every day answering computer-related questions from colleagues stuck in their documents or spreadsheets? If so, you can protect all your employees' time by investing in basic software training.

Typical training programs offer classes for applications like the Microsoft Office software suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or database programs like Microsoft Access or FileMaker's FileMaker Pro. Many also offer courses in Internet use or web site building.

The traditional method of instruction is known as Instructor-led training, or ILD. In this scenario, employees typically go offsite to a computer training facility for a one-day instruction session. Most ILT courses last about six hours, and include lecturing and hands-on exercises led by a trained professional.

A good course will also provide time for the instructor to answer individual questions face-to-face. Prices vary, but you can typically expect to spend around $200-300 per employee.

Employees can also learn software via CD-ROM, or computer-based training (CBT). CBT covers the same broad list of topics ILT does, but without a live instructor. While you don't have the ability to ask specific questions in this format, it does mean that users can skip familiar sections or spend extra time on the difficult ones. Highly motivated people capable of learning independently will definitely save on costs: CBT classes are about half the price of ILT classes.

Similar to CBT is a new type of instruction known as Web-based training, or WBT. Instead of learning with a CD-ROM, your employees simply log into an online training system with a user name and password and begin an interactive course. It's convenient -- you can register your employees online in a matter of minutes, using a credit card. And like CBT, it's cheaper (around half the price of an ILT course) and offers the flexibility to move at your own pace.

Many web-based programs go one step further, allowing interaction with a online community of fellow students, or even instant chat access to the instructor. If this is offered, make sure the reality matches what's being advertised. (For some of the larger and less expensive WBT companies, click here).

It's best if your employees can learn the way they want, whether it's via ILT, CBT, or WBT. No matter the type of training, students should be able to retake the course, or obtain a refund, if they aren't happy with the results. And to make sure the lessons stick, students should have an immediate project to work on that will reinforce their learning once the training is complete.

Not surprisingly, you'll find that the cost varies with the level and amount of training provided: the more advanced the subject, and the longer the course, the higher the price tag. But don't be afraid to haggle to get the most for your money. At the very least, look into bulk-ordering or a long-term commitment so your per-class price will be lower. Even if you don't get a lower price, you may find the investment to be quite a bargain.

Quick tips

Check credentials. When choosing an ILT company, make sure instructors are certified, with real-world experience Watch prerequisites. Your employees won't get much out of a course that's too advanced or simple for them; make sure they meet the proper prerequisites. Big training budget? If you have the budget for it, some WBT companies will even customize their web pages to match your company's site for a seamless visual integration.