The 5 key steps to building an eLearning program: Step 3 - Resourcing
Well we are really starting to hit our stride now, we are up to step 3 of 5 in our map for implementing or re-inventing eLearning successfully.
Step 3 in our journey is resourcing. There are really two options facing the eLearning developer: "insource" or "outsource".
It's tempting to make a unilateral decision one way or the other but Rebecca Verity, B Online Learning's Creative Director, recommends taking each project on a case by case basis. Even the most experienced development team, need some outside assistance from time to time.
Here are a list of primary questions that need to be answered in order to build a solid resourcing plan.
- Should I build up an in-house development team or contract development out?
- What are the implications for staff workload? Can this be managed?
- Can our trainers manage this technology themselves or will they be dependent on support personnel?
- What are the implications of team development?
- Can we find people with the right skills? How do we handle unexpected staff departures?
The inhouse vs outsource debate has raged long and hard for many years across multiple industries, especially in the technology sector. Sometimes its a philosophical debate, sometimes political, but its rarely cut and dried. Its a balancing act between control and cost.
Whichever route you select its key to allocate the key roles of the project and their respective responsibilities.
The core roles are:
- Project leader
- Subject matter expert
- Rapid developer
- Graphic designer
- Flash developer
- Video production
- LMS administrator
- IT department
Naturally, in some smaller departments multiple roles may be performed by the same individual. However, in general, only the most advanced and sophisticated teams are likely to be able to cover all of these skill sets.
If you would like to read more about the 5 steps you should consider for implementing or re-inventing eLearning successfully, then please download the complete whitepaper.
Outsourcing seems like a logical solution to many of these challenges doesn't it? What is your experience of resourcing eLearning projects? Did you "insource" or "outsource", or did you choose a blended approach?