Software training expands beyond the classroom
By BuyerZone.com Staff
August 9, 1999
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.
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.
