Even though mostorganizations recognise the benefits and importance of eLearning, they are still not sure of how to implement it successfully. They have doubts about the acceptability of eLearning. They are also worried about those stakeholders who might feel threatened by eLearning and hence will oppose eLearning implementation. Besides, there is lack of clarity on total cost involved and how to measure the benefits or effectiveness of eLearning. All these have delayed their decision to implement eLearning. For starters eLearning implementation is easiest when it is done to address business problems such as:
Roll out of enterprise systems like ERP or SCM etc
On-going training of a geographically dispersed admin / sales / technical services force for sales / product / process training
To slash time-to-market for a new product
To deliver induction programs for new employees
To convert existing distance learning programs to online ones of any academic organizations
However, enterprise eLearning for any organization is a complex issue. This requires a deep understanding of the objectives of eLearning. Wealso needtoconsider target audience, cultural and infrastructure issues both at the delivery and at user-ends. Besides, one needs to figure out the best way to deliver eLearning that addresses the needs of different stakeholders in the organization, be it employees, dealers, customers or even shareholders. Most organizations also feel that the first step to start eLearning is to buy an LMS and goaboutcalling for demos and tenders to buy LMS! Unfortunately, this approach breeds in-built delay in the implementation and entails substantial costs. While this may be the correct approach in some cases, the same may not be true in manyothers. Understandably, complex issues are best handled by an expert who can offer the required professional services. eLearning roll out is an intricate process that involves defining a roadmap, developing eLearning programs and delivering them using appropriate technology. If done haphazardly or, without the guidance of multi-disciplinary experts, it could end up as a failed initiative