Earlier this week we published our first review of this new resource, written by David Evans. He was fairly critical of the ebook format and questioned its approach. Wilma Taggart takes a different view - here is her commentary on this resource:

Start an Online Training Business
Author: Cherry Rea
Publisher: Crestia Developments Pty. Ltd.
Price: $US 26.95
Web address: http://www.webtraining-biz.com

With the forecasted increase in web based training, I'm certain that many trainers have considered the possibility of 'translating' traditional classroom based training courses on to online training packages. The process to a non-technical person may seem daunting. At least until I had the opportunity to review an Australian resource on how to develop on-line courses.

Ms Rea offers the first four chapters of her on-line book for free. The full cost is quoted as $US 26.95 and she claims that an equivalent university course would be $US 900.

I liked her 'can-do' positive simple approach. The indication is that anyone who has expert knowledge or skills in a subject and preferably has taught others, can feasibly gain financial reward by putting the materials on-line.

Ms Rea lists the tools needed to do this and provides simple explanations of what it entails. She uses plain language and the layout is logical and user friendly. In addition to the technical information, sensible business advice is given on, for example writing a business plan, marketing and copyright.

Case studies and recommended web sites are given. Although the manual is clear and concise, for trainers considering Web based training (WBT), one concern is that not all subjects may be suitable for this medium.

Wilma Taggart Associates
Training & Development
wtaggart@sol.co.uk