Griffin = Myth, VILT = Real!Myth #2: We can train hundreds of people in one sitting using web-meeting technology.

If the goal of “training” is simply to impart knowledge, the concept of training hundreds of people in one meeting may be attainable; however, in this case I might suggest the expert simply email the required information as a reading assignment.

With the more common expectation of training, one is applying knowledge learned. In this case, the design of the training session(s) is to have participants apply lessons via team exercises or role plays and debrief the work.

This is where two major design points need to be considered:

1. Does the web-meeting technology support multiple “breakout” rooms so group team work can occur?
2. How many learners/teams can effectively participate, be coached and be debriefed?

Our experience has shown that an optimal classroom size is between 12-15 people and that breakout room technology can be a critical design point in training. In the case of WebEx, their breakout room technology is found in their Training Center module (a separate application from that of their traditional Meeting Center application).

To learn more about Solution Selling® Virtual Instructor-Led Training, please visit: www.spisales.com/Virtual-Instructor-Led-Training.aspx

For a downloadable webcast on the benefits of and introduction to VILT, click here: How to Deliver World Class Sales Training with No Travel Costs.