Multi-Sourcing eLearning – Inhouse or Outsource?
Wednesday, June 14th, 2006Companies in today’s breakneck competitive landscape have to continually reevaluate their cost centers – seeking the almighty positive ROI. And you know training and development being a soft, sometimes unquantifiable corporate budget item, needs the justification (ironically) to continue getting funding. If the big wigs decide there will be some cost cutting, well training & development are disproportionate targeted. Would you agree? Give us your opinion at the e-Learning Place.
So giving this hard reality, does outsourcing make sense? Should every company look to outside, specialized organizations and outfits for their training needs? Where should one draw the line? Is it content outsourcing (using off-the-shelf) training courses? How about the learning management system or in the case of eLeaP – learning management platform. What should a company look for in undertaking a successful learning/training outsourcing?
- Established track record – the company you go with should have an established track record. Of course give new companies an opportunity to prove their worth. You might be surprised at the deals you can get.
- Supporting Cast – Is the training/learning management a complete outfit? Do they have a telephone number? How about a support and online ticketing system? Can you reach then when you need to? How about support for additional components you might need. Do they charge an arm & a leg for updates or maintenance? Beware of those contracts?
- Security – How secure is the company’s system(s)? – Are you concerned about your trade secrets leaking out onto the Internet? Do they have a secure server or it is just password protection and that’s it?
- Cost – It seems like an obvious but you have to look at savings? What does your traditional company trainings cost you? How much are you looking to save from using an outsourced partner? What additional cost (hidden) might exists?
So what can you outsource?
- Content – Get ready made training content. See if you can customize?
- Learning Management Systems (technology) – Do you want to build it in-house or use an already existing system like eLeaP. Also virtual classrooms
- Help Center – Outsource your helpdesk or online help system.
- Your entire training function – Balance the risks & rewards.
Closing thought – There are several companies that will give you a free trial of their systems. Use these opportunities to evaluate the potential partners.
Sincerely,
Donatus Weobong