Do the terms rapid e-learning or rapid authoring tools ring a bell? 

Truth is, most trainers are not familiar with the latest and greatest technology.  If you really could care less, you’re not alone.  But, training mediums are moving faster than a speeding bullet.  With the use of Gotomeeting, Webex, Articulate and other software options, reaching your audience is easy and vogue.  Instead of fighting the new mode of operation, embrace the change for it’s here to stay.  But how, you ask?  Begin by identifying your technology acuity.  Are you a trailer or a trend setter?  Find out by asking a few simple questions.  Do you download your music?  Do you primarily text from your phone?  Do you communicate with your employees via instant message?  Do you frequently update your Facebook or LinkedIn profile?  Do you tweet?

If you answered a resounding “NO”, I promise not to criticize.  There are tons of legitimate excuses:  lack of time, money, and interest for starters.  Some rebels may even feel like it’s rude to communicate in such ways – I know I did.  The bad news is you’re a technology trailer, slow to adapt to new trends and tools.  The good news is the solution can be relatively quick and painless.  Go to dinner with your techie friends and learn the jive before you’re left behind.  With increased global staffing comes more global training.  Greater demands and smaller budgets equate to cheaper delivery methods.  Hence, the demand for software – all kinds of software.  Whether you want to meet or greet, track or train or try to launch your student’s brain, below are my top three tips to ride the technology wave. 

Tip #1  |  Research, Research, Research

Be familiar with the software options by previewing demos or taking advantage of free trials.  Look in trade magazines, internet articles, and technical reviews to uncover the capabilities of the software.  Ask to speak to references before you show them the money.

Tip #2  |  Goals, Goals, Goals

Know what you are trying to accomplish.  You can buy the slickest software with every gee-wiz factor, but it may be like burying money in your backyard if there is no calculated plan.  Every training goal should be aligned and defined to your corporate or client environment.

Tip #3  |  Budget, Budget, Budget

The price of software is all over the map.  Don’t pigeon-hole yourself.  Perform your research and goal-setting before naming your price.  This way, you get what works, not what’s a bargain.  It’s a lot like that dress or shirt hanging your closet – it was a great price but you never wear it.

And remember, poor preparation yields poor results.  This holds true whether you’re purchasing, training or simply using a package.  The software experience is only as good as its end-users.