Why You Should Consider Outsourcing Corporate eLearning
"It's too expensive… I won't have any control over the development process… It will be difficult to update the corporate eLearning materials". These are the most common misconceptions about outsourcing corporate eLearning. In reality, hiring an eLearning vendor or consultant can improve your online training ROI and maximize your resources. Here are the top 8 reasons why you should consider outsourcing your corporate eLearning.
1. Faster Turnaround Times
eLearning vendors, consultants, and eLearning firms already have the tools they need to design your online training course. They also have a vast amount of experience in the field. As a result, they are able to create the finished eLearning product more rapidly. This is ideal for organizations that need to update their corporate eLearning program or create new online training courses as quickly as possible. For example, onboarding online training modules to prepare your new hires for their first day on the job, or product knowledge online training for a new line that's just about to launch.
2. More Cost Efficient
Organizations don't have to pay for a dedicated IT or L&D staff when they outsource their corporate eLearning. eLearning vendors have all the software and professional knowledge that's required. Everything is included in the estimate they provide. This can save you a pretty penny, as eLearning authoring tools and maintenance are usually quite costly. You also don't have to foot the bill for employee benefits, vacation pay, and other payroll expenses. But you still get a high-quality online training course out of the deal.
3. Greater Expertise
This benefit is actually two-fold. Firstly, you gain access to a wealth of ID experience. The eLearning vendors or consultants you hire know how to create effective online training courses based on your employees' needs. They are also familiar with Content Management Systems, eLearning authoring tools, and Learning Management Systems. In short, they have greater expertise that can help you develop meaningful and memorable online training experiences. Secondly, this frees up your company resources so that you can focus on other tasks. You don't have to allocate funds to updating and maintaining the system. In addition, your employees can concentrate on their job duties, instead of designing a comprehensive online training course.
4. Reduce Compliance Risks
Compliance online training helps prevent costly violations and improves workplace safety. Outsourcing corporate eLearning ensures that your compliance online training courses meet industry standards. This is particularly true when the eLearning vendor or consultant is an expert in the field. For example, an Instructional Designer who is knowledgeable about local regulatory standards. You may have to pay for their expertise and experience, but you can prevent fines and penalties.
5. Easier To Scale
Developing your online training content in-house requires a dedicated eLearning team. They must be on-hand to update the online training course design, maintain the Learning Management Systems and Content Management Systems, and develop new online training modules or activities. A lot of time, effort, and resources go into the process. However, outsourcing corporate eLearning makes it easier to scale your online training course to meet the evolving training needs of your organization. eLearning vendors already have your online training content in their systems. They can simply access the online training materials, make the necessary changes, and deploy the latest version. Experienced eLearning professionals are also able to offer advice to help you improve your online training design and achieve the desired outcome.
6. Streamlines The Localization Process
Most organizations don't have the resources to hire full-time L&D staff every time they open a new location. But they still need to customize the online training experience based on geographical considerations. For example, employees in the United States have different requirements than those in Europe. Languages, compliance regulations, and local customs are just some of the factors that come into play. An eLearning vendor can serve as a guide when you're localizing your online training program, as they are familiar with the area. They also have the opportunity to research your employee's needs by conducting surveys, interviews, and workplace observations.
7. Improves Workplace Productivity
One of the most notable benefits of outsourcing online training is improving employee productivity, as they can focus on their job responsibilities instead of developing online training materials. eLearning vendors and consultants also have the skills, talent, and tools it takes to produce high-quality online training courses. This translates into greater workplace efficiency and proficiency. Your staff gets the knowledge and experience they require to do their job effectively. As a result, they are happier and more satisfied in the workplace, which leads to an increase in employee retention.
Top Tip For Finding The Right eLearning Outsourcing Partner
Choosing the best eLearning outsourcing partner can be challenging. You need someone who can mesh with your organization and keep the lines of communication open. To find the perfect match, create a list of your top choices and ask for detailed estimates. Include as much information as possible so that they can provide you with an accurate quote. For example, mention the types of online training activities you're considering.
The next step is conducting online interviews to learn about their work process. This is also the time to analyze their eLearning portfolio and work examples. Don't hesitate to ask for references and look for online reviews. A little research now can help you avoid a lot of stress in the future. Lastly, assign your top candidates a small "test" eLearning project to evaluate their skills and abilities. For instance, creating an online training tutorial that centers on a work-related task.
Is outsourcing right for your corporate eLearning program? Hopefully, this article has helped you make your final decision. It's wise to weigh the pros and cons of enlisting the aid of an eLearning vendor and developing your online training course in-house. Consider the talents of your eLearning team, time constraints, and your online training budget.
If you’re still undecided, read the Free eBook: Is Outsourcing Of eLearning Content Development Right For You? to determine whether outsourcing eLearning content is the best option for you.