Introduction Despite the popularity of computers and the Internet, over three quarters of all formal training is still delivered in a classroom setting. But as technology changes, so can the ways in which you affordably train your employees. Print Portable and convenient, books and manuals can nail down complex technical topics as well as teach good business prose. When evaluating books, look for a well-organized table of contents, comprehensive index, summaries and diagrams throughout that reinforce key points and allow employees to pace themselves, to repeat sections they don't understand, and to skip things they already know. A glossary so employees can quickly refer to unfamiliar terms can be a real plus, too.
Print is affordable.
Although a great reference tool, print is less useful when an overly complex subject must be taught to a person with little basic understanding. Particularly effective for language and interpersonal skills training, audiotapes are ideal for employees who spend a lot of time in their cars or in travel. Of course, audiotapes fall short of real interactivity, and they may be an earful when covering complex subjects. It can also be hard to find much in the way of choice these days. The variety of training available on audiotape has dropped as flashier media become more popular.