Your project deadline is looming and you’re having trouble recalling the nuances of SQL Server, ASP.NET, or Visual Studio .NET. Since you are supposed to be the specialist in these areas, even your colleagues aren’t able to help. Time is running short, and your blood pressure is rising …

This scenario is actually very common in business today. And, because of this, it has been the impetus for a change in training solutions; a change toward customization and blending of learning options and solutions. It is a trend that is not only occurring today, but one that I see continuing into the future. This is because each format of computer-based and ILT training has advantages and disadvantages. So when you combine them, you get the best overall learning possible.

I fully expect that blended training solution trends will include the new knowledge server-based product, DVD-ROM and CD-ROM training formats that allow employees to access full training and reference materials right at their desks – as well as maintaining some instructor-led training. I base these expectations on the fact that over the past year we have seen an increase in such training and in companies looking for creative ways to maximize their people assets.

An example I use to illustrate this trend is that of a customer who started ASP.NET training by having employees use the DVD-ROM delivery method to gain an understanding of the basic concepts at their own pace. Once all were on the same level, the group went into customized, hands-on, instructor-led classes for training on the remainder of the program. This type of training has the benefit of providing customized content which fits with the projects that participants are working on at the time, and, during and after class completion, enabling reference sourcing for review or further training.

As you begin to evaluate blended learning options for your optimized solution, there are five points you should consider. You should ensure that the selected solution allows you to: