If you think that custom training programs are better off using a cloud-based technology, you need to hold off that decision to ponder on the details first. It is important for you to look into the pros and cons of this technology first before you utilize it.
Before we do that, let us discuss what cloud-based technology is all about.
When you say that something is “in the cloud,” you are referring to the use of the Internet in storing and accessing data. In fact, “the cloud” is another term for the Internet. Instead of storing your custom training programs in a hard-drive, you will be storing that on the Internet If you will use cloud-based technology in your elearning initiatives, that simply means you will store all the relevant parts of the course on the Internet. Naturally, everyone who has to access it requires the same connection and device.
Now that you understand how cloud-based technology works, let us discuss the pros and cons of using it in your training initiatives.
Pros of using cloud-based technology
The primary reason to use this technology is it lowers the training cost of the company. Instead of spending a lot on the logistics to deploy the training program, you only have to upload everything on the Internet. You can save a lot when it comes to both the hardware and software expenses. Actually, you can even save when it comes to that. You can rent out data centers that will provide the infrastructure that you will need to deploy your custom training program.
Another advantage is you do not need to meet a lot of the software requirements. Most of the time, you do not need to buy a software application because the cloud-based technology should be able to let you use their own. No need to buy the license and upgrade the software every now and then. The service provider of the cloud-based technology can take care of that for you. Even the recovery of the data is usually included in the package of services that will be given to the company. You can keep up with the trends in technology without paying too much with every upgrade.
Cons of using cloud-based technology
Probably the main disadvantage of using cloud-based technology for your custom training program is you are at the mercy of the service provider. If something happens to their infrastructure, your training program will be damaged too. Although they will take care of the costs that will help recover your data, that will momentarily keep you from using the course. It can be frustrating if there is a need to use the course for a fresh batch of employees.
Another disadvantage is your own Internet connection. You need to make sure that the speed of the connection can keep up with the requirements of the cloud-based technology. It is important that everyone who will access it will have the same connection.
Security is also a concern. You need to find a trustworthy service provider so your custom training program will be secure. Any confidential data will be at risk because you are asking a third party to handle and store it for you.
Finally, while your cost will be lower, will still be at the mercy of your service provider. If they want to raise their rates, you have no choice but to accept.
Think about this when you are planning your custom training program. Weighing the pros and cons will help you decide if this is the best platform for you to stage your training initiatives. If not, there are other alternatives – they may be costly, but they might be better at meeting your training goals.
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