E‐learning connects Cable & Wireless with big cost savings : … and helps to keep employees up to date in a constantly changing sector

Purpose – To review the implementation of e‐learning throughout the global operations of Cable & Wireless. Design/methodology/approach – The article is based on information provided by Cable & Wireless, and course supplier Thomson NETg. Findings – Cable & Wireless estimates that using e‐learning in critical business and information‐technology skills for its employees worldwide has cost about 80 percent less than the equivalent instructor‐led training. Cable & Wireless also believes that the system is helping to raise the level of knowledge within the organization. E‐learning enables employees to dip freely into the training so they can quickly update and refresh their skills, which means they are continuously equipped with the knowledge to help the company to move forward in a difficult market. Practical implications – The article puts forward the factors that helped Cable & Wireless to make such a success of its e‐learning program. Originality/value – The article will be of greatest value to any trainer of human‐resource management specialist considering the introduction of e‐learning in his or her organization.