How to Choose Online Training Software: 9 Tips for Small Businesses

Are you an accidental trainer: someone given the additional responsibility for training employees because you have a knack for connecting with people? Or, maybe you’re a small business owner and spend time each day training new and current employees. In either case, training takes up a lot of time and probably is one of many other things you do. If this describes your situation, it’s time to use online training software. There are many options available. Here are nine tips to help you find the online training software that fits your needs.

1. Identify training goals – Know your goals and requirements before reviewing online training software options. Think through these questions:

* Do you plan to use the software to train new workers? Or, maybe to introduce employees to new products and updates? Or to provide employee training for certification?

2. Match software to budget – There are different types of online learning software tools available at various prices. Compare the cost to your goals. Figure out how much you can afford to spend on the software. Look for hidden fees charged to update content or limits on the number of users or admin accounts included with the price. Find out if there are additional setup or support fees.

3. Verify ease of use – Some online learning software systems are loaded with advanced features. But, often they are complicated in design and take time to learn, which can be frustrating. Other training systems feature a design that is easy to use. Identify the system that fits your needs by thinking through these questions:
• What type of training materials will the software support, such as videos, PowerPoint presentations, audio recordings, photos, or infographics?
•  Does the software design make it easy to include these materials in the training modules?
• Do you need to learn special design techniques?
• Is the software designed so you can easily create quizzes or compliance tests to track employee understanding?
• What is the process for adding or deleting users, updating content, or tracking employee progress through the course?

4. Keep it simple– After finding the software that fits your needs, don’t get caught in the features trap. It’s easy to be lured by extra features to enhance the training program. But, they can increase the cost and complexity of the software, requiring more time for setup and management. Many businesses that purchased the extras say they ended up not using them.

Bottom line, if training is not your full-time job, start with the basic software and keep it simple. The easier it is to create online training modules and update course materials, the more likely you will regularly use the software and experience the rewards of online training success.

5. Test the software– If you needed a new car, you probably wouldn’t buy one without test driving it. The same goes for training software. You need to try it out to ensure it will fit your needs. So when talking with software companies, check if they offer a free trial. Ask how long you can use it to see if it fits your needs.

6. Check on customized options– Ask if you can customize the training system with a design that represents your brand, including your colors and logo.

7. Evaluate customer service support– When learning any new software, you’ll have questions. Ask if the company provides training and support to help with any problems designing the training modules. Find out when customer support is available and how quickly the company responds.

8. Evaluate accessibility– Today’s employees work from multiple locations. Ask if employees can use the training program from any digital device, browser platform, from anywhere in the country, and at any time. 

Learn tips on developing an employee training plan by reading this blog.

Traineaze is easy-to-use online training software that helps companies provide training to employees, partners, and customers. Please visit Traineaze to learn more about how we can help you deliver excellent online training.