SUNNYVALE, Calif. – One of the most wide-spread training programs used by businesses, Microsoft PowerPoint has proved to be a handy tool. It’s a great solution for companies who don’t have a large budget. However, many companies are saying that PowerPoint is basically just good at creating handouts that require no interaction. In a recent survey conducted by Brandon Hall Research, one person responded negatively about using PowerPoint: “I don’t consider converted PowerPoint to be e-learning; rather, it’s just e-reading.” Several other respondents were also clearly against using PowerPoint as a learning tool and stated that it is often misused or used inappropriately.

The problem, in a nutshell? Many trainers make the mistake of using PowerPoint as their sole training tool instead of incorporating different media, which can lead to a static, page-turning, “e-reading” approach.

In a new report, PowerPoint to E-learning Development Tools: Comparative Analysis of 20 Leading Systems, Brandon Hall Research provides the solution to this dilemma. Make no mistake though; this is not a report on how to “spruce up” your PowerPoint presentation. Rather, it explains when it’s appropriate to use PowerPoint and deals specifically with how to – and how not to – use PowerPoint for e-learning purposes. The report also provides information on several leading companies that have incorporated PowerPoint presentations with other delivery methods successfully, creating rapid e-learning with increased interest and higher retention.

How does one make this transformation? The report profiles 20 different applications that are designed to convert PowerPoint source material into interactive, online learning applications. With this information, you will have what you need to make apples-to-apples comparisons to assist in selecting a tool that best fits your needs.

With “PowerPoint to E-Learning Development Tools” you can:

• Choose tools that match your instructional and business needs through comparative analysis of best-of-breed PowerPoint to e-learning authoring tools
• Model your PowerPoint-based learning initiatives after best practice examples
• Apply tips and techniques that will enhance your PowerPoint-converted, online courseware

While you can’t force them to learn, you can certainly make it easier and more captivating – with fewer cramps from all the e-reading.
A complete copy of the report is available online at www.brandon-hall.com.

The independent analyst firm Brandon Hall Research provides insight and advice through their publications and consulting on best practices and learning technologies for companies both large and small. The company also sponsors the Excellence in Learning Awards, the first recognition program dedicated entirely to the learning industry. For information, please use our contact form. For more information about “Leadership Development: A Brandon Hall Research Study of How Ten Leading Organizations Train Managers and Executives” visit their Web site at www.brandon-hall.com.