A comparison of different training media.
We use this to help organisations to understand objectively how to evaluate and use different training tools.

These topics are explored in depth in the IT training strategy book from NCC Education: Learning to Succeed in Business, with Information Technology.

Training tool	Advantages	Disadvantages
Books	Low cost Easily available Written by experts Can be used many times Self-paced	Requires self-discipline Isolated way of learning
CD-ROMs	Low cost, if 'off-the-shelf' Engaging and interesting Can be used many times Self-paced	Expensive, when bespoke Distracting in a busy office Usually used in a learning centre to reduce office distraction Requires multimedia PC
Classroom	Easily available Reasonable cost Collaborative Supportive Time-efficient	Cost in lost time Travel and accommodation costs
Desk side	Highly targeted Training delivered at the point of need Low negative impact on productivity	Expensive per head Reactive, rather than planned and proactive
Lectures	Very cost-effective Ability to reach a large audience quickly Minimal time away from work Good for short topics A degree of interaction	In-depth coaching is difficult Limited (or no) hands-on time Limited ability to 'stream' students by ability/role Long lectures can be uncomfortable or dull
Telephones	Easy access, using available technology Targeted Low negative impact on productivity Good 'just-in-time' method of fixing immediate issues	Reactive, rather than planned and proactive Explanation over telephone is limited to voice and is therefore more difficult
Video/audio tapes	Low cost, if 'off-the-shelf' Video can be engaging and interesting, incorporating demonstrations Audio can be used in car Can be used many times Self-paced Easy access to technology	Expensive when bespoke Can't be used in the office No interaction or opportunity to question lecturer/expert
Web/intranet	Standard browser technology means that Web-based courses are easily accessible Can incorporate video and other interesting media Can include interactive tasks: learning by exploration Self-paced Can be used many times Collaborative	Internet and network bandwidth limits the use of multimedia Self-paced; requires self-discipline Students not yet fully used to this way of learning