Trends You Should Know About

Data File: Real-Time Collaboration

Real-time collaboration-based learning is defined as live, technology-based human-to-human collaboration and mentoring. As a knowledge transfer method, by definition, collaboration requires the real-time interaction between two or more people. The original demand for collaboration-based learning products was from corporate enterprise training buyers. Real-time collaboration-based learning is steadily replacing both classroom and self-paced e-learning in the enterprise. But the rapid growth in the small and medium business (SMB) sub-segment is the interesting story in this segment.
Learning Circuits, v8 n2
February 2007

The Changing Face of Workplace Learning

Technology. Podcasting, videocasting, and other mobile audio and video applications are being used with greater frequency in many companies. EMC, a Massachusetts-based computer storage company, has made podcasting the mainstay of its sales communication and training sessions. EMC produces three to four podcasts weekly of varying lengths that are hosted on a blog. The article covers how other companies are using this technology to support on-demand learning for their employees. The article also appears in the January 2007 issue of T+D magazine.
Learning Circuits, v8 n1
January 2007

India Inc.

The growth of business process outsourcing (BPO) is most visible in India with its highly skilled yet inexpensive workforce. This article looks at three strategies that have fed this remarkable growth: build through acquisition the expertise and presence needed to deliver end-to-end services; possess sufficient training service capabilities in-house and sell them to clients who are leveraged off large consulting businesses; and establish a joint venture with other training providers to create a hybrid offering. Much of the BPO now being handled in India is custom content development. This article is published in China & India Inc. a supplement toT+D November 2006.
T+D, v60 n11 p14-18
November 2006

Beyond the Virtual Meeting

This article predicts that by the year 2010, web conferencing will be a multi-billion dollar industry. With advances in technology, the political and world situation, learning and meeting online is becoming a solution used by more and more groups. To be cost-effective, however both learners and facilitators must acquire valuable skills.
Learning Circuits, v7 n9
September 2006

'Can Do' Spirit Invades Training

This article profiles how several companies are outsourcing training and other business needs in innovative ways such as partnering with other companies. The author reports that $125 billion was spent on training by North American corporations and governments during 2005. Yet only one percent of the $44.5 billion that went to out-tasked services was spent on learning services. The author believes this will be a fast-growing service in the near future.
T+D, v60 n6 p28-30, 32
June 2006

Leadership for a New Age

Trends. Much has been written about the impending loss of baby boomers in the workplace and the need to preserve the knowledge and skills they possess. This article identifies three broad ways to manage a multigenerational workforce: walk the talk, reframe retention and loyalty, and manage multigenerational learning. The author concludes with the strong recommendation for employers and leaders to find ways to retain older employees while attracting younger employees.
T+D, v60 n6 p22-23
June 2006

Diversity is Dead

Much like equal employment opportunity and affirmative action, the term "diversity" has come to represent something smaller, and with a more limited focus, than was originally intended.
ASTD LINKS, v5 n4
April 2006

E-learning = Environmental Learning

This article asserts that using e-learning and other technology-based learning delivery methods can have a positive affect on the environment. The use of technology can be extended to conferences and meetings to increase the environmental benefits of virtual work.
Learning Circuits, v7 n4
April 2006

IM 4 Learning

This article covers the growing use of instant messaging (IM) in the workplace which goes beyond immediate communication, to just-in-time learning, to supplementing classroom training, to supporting e-learning, and to marketing learning. The authors caution that there are obstacles to using IM on an organizational level and suggest taking time to sort through the issues to ensure an acceptable application of IM in the workplace.
T+D, v60 n2 p47-50
February 2006

Eliminate the Skills Gap

Workforce shortage? Skills gap? Or both? These are the core issues discussed in this article. Differing viewpoints on the real issues and how to resolve them are offered. Organizations need to determine skills gaps and how to manage this problem. Two state level programs are profiled.
T+D, v60 n2 p26-34
February 2006