A majority (75%) of employers who use e-learning for staff training plan to significantly increase their use of informal networks over the next three years, according to research by e-skills UK – the sector skills council for IT and telecoms.

The research found that 80% of employers said e-learning provides an accessible, flexible and cost-effective method of delivering training. It is being used to support training in a wide range of skills, including communications, leadership and management, foreign language training, IT, health and safety and a wide range of company specific programmes. 

Laura Overton, based at e-skills UK and e-learning champion for the Skills for Business Network, says: “The electronic delivery and support of formal training has been shown to make a significant contribution to staff productivity and motivation. “Informal learning is being used by staff to share knowledge between widely dispersed teams in a way that is not easily captured through more traditional methods.”  

The study found that e-learning is only successful if there is a commitment from senior management, the right IT infrastructure, effective internal management and support, and the sourcing of appropriate e-learning materials.