The way we learn at work has changed over the years. Training no longer means simply taking notes while a more experienced colleague performs the role. With a much more technically minded workforce, learning has had to change to ensure engagement as well as providing convenience and value for money in an economically challenging environment.

The e-learning is certainly the way forward. Encompassing the latest web technologies, learning management systems provide training direct to the employees’ fingertips. All that is required is the installation of the learning software package and instantly, a range of pre-loaded courses are accessible.

The great thing about an e-learning system is that the employee can effectively dictate and to manage their own learning. Packages give employees the option of taking the course of their choice, when they like. No need to book a place or take time off work, the course is already there.

Plus many systems provide the option of saving a course half way through, should a problem arise or if the employee wishes to take the course over a matter of a few days. To compound the learning, a quiz at the end of the course serves as a recap. Some packages will produce certificates for successful completion.

E-learning systems prove necessary for mandatory staff training, i.e. anti-money laundering or health and safety, subjects which employees are duty bound to know, due to the regulations stipulated by their particular industry sector. Records can be extracted regarding which employees have yet to pass any compulsory tests.

The benefits of e-learning are manifold. To access a course at your desk means that time is not wasted through travelling to venues, money is not spent on expenses and emissions are reduced.

Additionally, the courses are updated frequently to incorporate changes to legislation, so you can be sure your employees are learning the most recent developments which are appropriate for their job. Textbooks can’t be updated quite so easily and changes in the law can render last month’s two day offsite useless.

If you are looking for a way to create a high performance, informed and engaged workforce, investing in e-learning is strongly recommended.