All Learning, All the Time

by Paula Santonocito

A new tool from ON24, a global leader in virtual events, allows companies to save money and time while delivering robust training.

The tool is ON24's Virtual Learning Center, a highly interactive, completely customizable solution that leverages 3-D capabilities to simulate a client's work environment.

Boston Scientific, a global leader in medical devices, is one of the first ON24 clients to launch the product. Boston Scientific's Virtual Learning Center has a hospital-like appearance, where doctors and healthcare professionals can learn how the latest medical devices work and how to use the tools of their trade.

ON24 Virtual Learning Center features include:

- Resource Center or Library, where users can collect and save training materials, including PDFs, webcasts, videos, and slide presentations for a custom learning experience;

- Product/Technology Showcase, where training staff and product managers can provide in-depth review of new concepts and answer participant questions;

- Lecture Hall/Auditorium, where trainees can hear lectures and view presentations, as well as a schedule of webcast presentations by title, topics/tracks or time;

- Communications Center, where participants can leave messages for others and have interactive chat sessions to facilitate collaborative learning; and

- Classroom/Exhibit Hall, for interacting with subject matter experts and instructors and downloading related documents, such as course outlines.

The Virtual Learning Center aims to increase productivity and cut costs by making training easily accessible.

In the case of Boston Scientific, for example, participants can learn about the latest healthcare technologies and network from their offices or homes without spending time and money traveling.

With the economy forcing organizations to cut back on travel expenses, virtual learning offers a viable alternative to traditional training.