Further Information: There is a clear process, that is known and understood, for avoiding the duplication of e-Learning resources through the purchase of duplicate or similar resources or creation of new resources.
There is evidence from a wide range of sources in the NHS that there is considerable duplication of effort in terms of the development of e-Learning resources.
One of the reasons for this, is that everyone feels that they want to have an e-Learning resource that exactly matches their local situation and circumstances.
This is understandable and one of the ways of accommodating this need without actually commissioning a completely new product, is to consider adapting an existing relevant resource for your own needs. This will be less expensive than commissioning from new. Some possible solutions are provided below.
Check national databases
There are currently some national initiatives that are in place where those wishing to procure some e-Learning resources can check what exists already. These include:
- the National eLearning Repository: www.elearningrepository.nhs.uk
- the National Learning Management System [NLMS] - ensuring consistent reporting on national and regional e-Learning materials, helping to monitor achievement of best value, provide ongoing information on staff progression at all levels of the NHS and inform future developments
eventually acting as a single hub through which national, regional and local e-Learning materials will be accessed - Skills for Health.
These initiatives will combine to:
- help ensure consistent reporting on national and regional e-Learning materials
- help monitor achievement of best value
- provide ongoing information on staff progression at all levels of the NHS
- inform future developments
- eventually act as a single hub through which national, regional and local e-Learning materials can be accessed.
Work with Local Networks and Forums
You could work with colleagues in other organisations to consider regional purchasing of resources which cover common themes.
You could join a regional e-Learning network or forum for sharing resources. Look at the page in the Toolkit on networks.
Look outside the NHS.
If the resources you want to procure are on generic themes such as customer care, developing IT skills or Health and Safety, then you might look outside of the NHS to organisations such as
- learndirect
- UK Online centres
- FE colleges
- Local libraries
And see what they have to offer.
Examples of this in practice from the East of England e-Learning strategy
“NHS East of England recognises that national NHS materials and materials from other sources will not meet all needs and contexts. Whilst avoiding unnecessary duplication, it will continue to work with partners in the region and beyond to commission material that extends the offerings available nationally, particularly in areas where no national materials exist and or where substantial regional contextualisation is required.”
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