What is VILT?

Virtual Instructor-led Training (vILT) is a different modality by which to deliver training content. The mode employs a “continuous learning” vs. fire-hose training approach over a series of sessions that include: eLearning, virtual classroom sessions held by a live instructor, homework assignments, and virtual office hours.  The approach and quality is very similar to an instructor-Led course.

Are the courses interactive?

The courses are highly interactive. This is the #1 design principle of VILT sessions. A formulaic approach to VILT courseware development is put into place to keep participants engaged. This approach forces early interaction and every few minutes forces the participants to interact (answer questions, take tests, conduct exercises). The way in which participants interact with others is intentionally mixed (chats, annotations, polls, raise hands, etc.) for maximum involvement in the learning process. 

What are the benefits of VILT?

VILT has many benefits for sales teams including: 

1. 40% cost savings by eliminating travel 
2. Simultaneously train remote teams geographically dispersed
3. Spaced learning improves retention 

What web application is used to conduct VILT and what are the technical requirements for participants in the training program?

Solution Selling eLearning, WebEx Training Center.... internet access and a phone (or VOIP). 

How does WebEx work?

For platform details:
http://www.webex.com/product-overview/training-center.html

For application technical support:
http://support.webex.com/support/support-overview.html

Is the quality of the program the same as with ILT?

Many would argue it is hard to replace the value of face-to-face interaction, and traveling to a training location denotes the seriousness of the event. However, the design of Solution Selling® VILT provides two major benefits aside from cost savings:

1. Spaced-learning: Instead of getting a lot of valuable content packed into 2-3 days, the VILT environment allows for individuals to focus on a topic once a week, dedicate a shorter amount of formal learning time, and likely improve retention
2. The tools within WebEx Training Center allow for collaboration  which improves team work

Why is eLearning a necesary part of VILT? 

As in other blended modality solutions, SPI recommends the eLearning be used as a prerequisite to gain knowledge of concepts prior to an application session. In the case of ILT, participants must take the 4-5 hour eLearning course before coming to the 2-3 day ILT workshop. In the case of the VILT solution, the eLearning is to be taken in chunks. In most cases, the participant ONLY goes through a module or two related to the topic to be covered in the subsequent VILT session (e.g. a participant would takes a 30 minute module on “Stimulating Interest before attending VILT Session III)  

How many sellers/managers can participate per session?

The maximum training group size is 15 participants. Minimums are currently set at 9.