How To Save Time And Money When Outsourcing Your Next eLearning Project
eLearning outsourcing can offer a variety of benefits. However, it can also be a stressful, time-consuming, and resource-draining process. The good news is that you can minimize these drawbacks by planning ahead and following some basic eLearning outsourcing guidelines. Here are 8 tips to maximize resources and reduce turnaround times with eLearning outsourcing.
1. Clarify Expectations And Learning Objectives
Ambiguous learning objectives drain online resources and slow the eLearning content development process. This is because your eLearning outsourcing partner must repeatedly modify the learning materials to keep up with your changing needs. As such, it’s essential to clarify your expectations, learning objectives, and desired outcomes beforehand. Be fully transparent about what you hope to achieve and how your eLearning outsourcing partner fits into the picture. For example, their eLearning expertise will help you create more personalized sales online training so that you can increase your monthly figures.
2. Create A Realistic eLearning Outsourcing Budget
You need to know well in advance how much money you realistically have to spend on the eLearning project you plan to outsource. This includes up-front costs, as well as monthly maintenance fees. A carefully calculated eLearning outsourcing budget prevents you from outsourcing more than you can afford. It also gives the eLearning outsourcing company a clear picture of the scope of the eLearning project. For example, a limited budget indicates that they will only be able to handle a portion of the work or use less costly eLearning authoring tools or LMS platforms within your price range.
3. Use An Online Directory To Find the Ideal eLearning Outsourcing Partner
Sometimes, finding the ideal eLearning outsourcing company is the most challenging part of the process. You need someone with the right eLearning expertise who can accommodate your budget. Furthermore, they must be able to mesh with your organization and understand your brand messaging. Thus, it’s wise to use an online directory to narrow your list of options. Save time by perusing the directory and find eLearning companies that align with your needs.
4. Inventory Your Assets
You may already have online training resources and tools that you can use for your current eLearning course. At the very least, your eLearning outsourcing partner might be able to put these materials to use. For example, instead of creating new eLearning content from scratch, they could further elaborate your existing online training material using the same eLearning authoring tools you already have at your disposal. In fact, it’s best to have a running list of the software you already have. This way, future collaborators can quickly reference the list to see which tools they still need to acquire. In addition, consider granting them access to your training material database so that they can repurpose your online training resources.
5. Get It in Writing
Misunderstandings can significantly delay your eLearning content development timeline, not to mention cause a great deal of stress and frustration. This is why it’s essential to get all the pertinent details in writing. That includes the cost overview, delivery dates, and the overall scope of the eLearning project, such as which deliverables and support services are included. Both parties should be able to offer their input and add their own contractual details. The agreement must also include additional expenses that may arise over the course of the eLearning project. For instance, the eLearning outsourcing company must ask for your approval before purchasing another eLearning authoring tool for the task.
6. Create A List Of Must-Haves
You probably already have a list of essentials that you need to include in your eLearning course. For example, demo videos with a high production value or interactive eLearning simulations that feature realistic settings. Have this list on hand during the selection process to find the eLearning outsourcing company who meets all your requirements. You can also create a questionnaire for your top contenders or schedule interviews, using this list as a guide.
7. Have Communication Protocols In Place
Free-flowing communication is crucial for the success of any project. Developing an eLearning course is no exception. As such, you must have clear communication protocols in place so that everyone knows what to expect. For instance, what is your preferred method of communication? How many times per week/month will you discuss the eLearning project with your eLearning outsourcing partner? You should also have a contingency plan in place for unexpected issues, such as tech glitches or revisions that take longer than expected. For example, your eLearning outsourcing partner must contact you if they are unable to meet the milestone.
8. Develop An Effective Feedback System
The wonderful thing about eLearning outsourcing is that you take the responsibility off your shoulders. That can be a double-edged sword because it also means relinquishing control of the eLearning project. Fortunately, you can have the best of both worlds by developing an effective feedback system with your eLearning outsourcing partner. For example, how often will you meet to discuss the eLearning project and exchange ideas? Will they send regular updates regarding their progress and important milestones? Are you able to offer your input during key stages of the eLearning content development process or send revision requests? Feedback prevents lengthy and costly revisions later on and helps keep the eLearning project on track.
Use these 8 tips to cut eLearning outsourcing costs and save time. It’s also a good idea to meet with your eLearning outsourcing partner beforehand to make sure they mesh with your eLearning team, especially if they’ll be working with your in-house staff on a regular basis. In addition, schedule periodic video conferences where you can share feedback and ensure that everyone’s on the same page.
