Online Vs Boardroom Training: Lessons and Opportunities for the Post Covid-19 Period

The debate on whether to go for online training (e-learning) or to stick to traditional classroom learning has been going on for some time now. Organizations have been under pressure to provide their staff with high quality training but also cost effectively. With internet access at its all-time high, many organizations are considering the concept of moving their staff training online to save both money and time, and improve effectiveness. This article shows why there is no better time for organizations to migrate to online learning.

Cost Effective

Training has traditionally been very expensive. Costs such as travel, accommodation, meals, and training materials made boardroom learning difficult to scale. Online training eliminates most of these expenses while delivering the same (or higher) quality. Organizations can therefore train more staff regularly, improving overall performance.

Minimal Disruption to Operations

Boardroom training often meant pulling staff away from critical operations for several days. Online training allows employees to dedicate just an hour or two daily while continuing their normal work. Studies confirm that shorter, consistent sessions are highly effective.

Assessment

Traditional classroom training makes it hard to objectively measure learning outcomes. Online platforms, however, include built-in assessments and quizzes. Staff can retake assessments until they achieve mastery, ensuring real learning has taken place.

Peer Learning

Modern learning management systems include forums where participants share insights and respond to peers’ reflections. This exchange ensures participants not only learn from materials, but also from each other’s experiences.

Flexibility

Online training allows staff to learn when they are most productive — whether early mornings, evenings, weekends, or even during commutes. This flexibility makes learning more effective compared to fixed schedules of boardroom sessions.

Learner Involvement

In a classroom, not all participants remain engaged. Online learning, however, tracks progress individually, from quizzes attempted to forum participation, ensuring every learner is actively involved.

Learning Culture

Organizations thrive when learning is continuous. Online training embeds a culture of daily and lifelong learning, beyond occasional workshops or seminars.

Conclusion

Online training is an idea whose time has come. It enables organizations, regardless of size or complexity, to train their staff effectively, with minimal disruptions and lower costs, while embedding a culture of continuous improvement.