Over two years ago, I introduced e-learning to the company I worked for. In making a case for investment, I made a clear case as to how e-learning would complement other forms of training in the organisation.

E-learning is not for everyone as it depends on one's learning style so, in writing the strategy, e-learning formed part of the overall learning and development strategy.

In my case, the clear business case was access to learning for staff who did not have the opportunity to attend classroom training, worked on remote sites, so had no easy access to managers/coaches and it also complemented some of the traditional classroom training by offering small bites of learning, either as a refresher or as pre-work.

You may also wish to do a cost benefit analysis in terms of costs and benefits.

My strategy also included risks to success i.e. time allowed for staff to access e-learning. Offer on line tutorial support and create network of communities where people can 'talk to each other' about the various offerings. My experience tells me that it takes time to take off, needs a champion at the top management level and needs to be constantly promoted via newsletter, emails and communications.

Nina Merchant

To read the question that inspired Nina's advice and the thoughts of other members on how to make the case for e-learning click here.