The benefits of e-learning vs. a standard face-to-face training session can be summarised in a few points.

		Face to face		e-Learning
Retention		Whilst many people learn well in a face to face environment, retention is limited and its re-enforcement difficult. If a user misses a critical step of the training it may influence the overall learning experience.		With web based learning, users have the possibility to conduct the training at their own pace and repeat any steps as many times as required. Retention is improved due to the ability of each user to re-access the training content at any time they wish.
Flexibility		When conducting group training, a trainer can only allocate so much time to personal needs and learning styles. Often the learning experience is affected by the ability of the trainer, the time available and the state of the users on that day. Class room training will always be conducted from start to finish with no respect to pre-existent knowledge on a singular base.		E-Learning is particularly flexible as it involves both demonstrations and interactivity. Having been specifically designed following the latest in Adult Learning Principles, it does not rely on the personal ability of each trainer. The modules can also be learnt at any time of the day and from any network connected PC, therefore requiring no set up at all. Due to the independent nature of each e-learn module, the user can selectively choose which session to perform.
Availability		Face to face training is only available if and when there is a trainer, an available environment and a sufficient number of users present. It can not be easily organised at a short notice for a single user who may have missed previous sessions. Very often training is compromised by a variety of languages and travel difficulties.		The advantage of web based training is that it is always available, to anyone at any time. Present and future. It does not require any set up and can be run from office PCs or - given appropriate access, even from the user's home PC.
Investment		Face to face training requires an ongoing investment. Every time there is new personnel to be trained, a new training session needs to be organised, therefore making it an expensive exercise.		The costs for online training are non-recurring but a long-term investment instead. Whenever new users require training, it is immediately accessible at no additional expense.
Expandability		If new processes are implemented, new training sessions need to be organised, with all associated costs and staffing requirements.		All E-Learning modules are independent parts of a larger environemnt. New processes can easily be incorporated in the already existing content and users can be trained at their own pace.