WBT is a mode of self-paced training that is similar to CBT but delivered over the Internet or a company intranet using a web browser. In addition to the course content, a WBT often includes interactive methods, such as bulletin boards, chat rooms, instant messaging, videoconferencing, discussion threads, and assessments. WBT has revolutionized the new-millennium training concepts; you can leverage Web technology to optimize e-Learning.

WBT courses are delivered using a browser. Browsers are free and are supposed to be broadly compatible. In fact there are plenty of niggling differences between brands and versions. On the whole, though, WBT courses will run on practically any computer without cost. Browsers are multi-purpose, familiar and easy-to-use. They also have a great deal of built-in navigational functionality – functionality that has to be hand-built in a proprietary runtime program.

MANY CORPORATIONS have begun to make the move from Instructor-Led classroom training to Web-Based training (WBT). There are several important factors to consider before making such a switch. Tenable outlines some important considerations for Web-based training.

Web-based training has the potential to offer many advantages over traditional instructor-led training.

• Provides standardized training ensuring a consistent message across the corporation.
  
• Decreases employees time away from their work/jobs.
  
• Web-based material can be easily adapted for different audiences (unlike print-based material).
  
• WBT is better than print-based material for unstable or rapidly changing material that needs to be updated often.
  
• Training is more convenient for employees - it is anytime, anywhere.
  
• Training is available to a larger audience - the same WBT course can be distributed to desktops around the world.
  
• The company saves money on travel expenses, instructor/trainer costs, classroom facilities costs, and packaging/distribution costs.
  
• Training can be customized and tailored to the company's culture

• Use WBT as a pre-requisite for a classroom training session. Have learners do pre-reading and pre-work via the Web before coming to the classroom.
  
• Include some form of interactivity in WBT - synchronous or asynchronous chats, exercises, activities, case studies, scenarios, quizzes, etc.
  
• Make sure your learners have the technical capability and motivation for self-directed learning on the Web.
  
• Use WBT for technical or procedural training, reserve classroom time for soft skills training,that requires some form of face-to-face interaction.
  
• Supplement WBT with job aids and printable material.
  
• Repurpose existing content.
  
• Use WBT as a refresher.
  
• Great option for computer savvy audiences.
  
• Give them the facts, but include details as an option ("Tell me more" links to additional information).
  
• Customize the information to the learner's corporate culture or specific interests. Make it personally relevant -- don't just deliver the facts.

The successful completion of any project involves a tradeoff of three factors: time, resources and scope. A web based project is no exception. Such projects are generally fixed in terms of time and resources, so the scope must be adjusted to fit within these constraints. Key to the value of the service is the interactive design sessions during which the project team gathers information on the clients’ environment and needs. Our consultants educate the client’s staff on the critical architecture and business decisions and guide them to the best solutions. The team then prepares visualization of the design for client review. Portal Solutions works with the client through an iterative process until it is clear that the solution will achieve established business objectives.