OutStart, the leading provider of eKnowledge software solutions for learning and knowledge sharing, today announced the "Creating a Learning Culture: Jumpstart Toolkit" is available for free download from its corporate Web site, www.outstart.com. The kit explains the benefits of evolving from a traditional training approach to a dynamic learning culture and the 5 straight forward steps it takes to get there.

Making the transition from a traditional training approach to a “learning” culture can be a daunting but rewarding task. The toolkit not only addresses the key steps to get there but provides the aids to successfully accomplish each step.  Specifically the toolkit:

1. Contains worksheets and exercises that help define the landscape of  organizations’ desired learning environment,
2. Builds a business case for learning, and helps to create a strategy
3. Systematically works through the technology selection process, and evaluates the results of your transition.
4. Discusses key aspects on informal learning and knowledge sharing
5. Provides a set of customizable slides that can be used during discussions with learning stakeholders
6. Includes a comprehensive RFP template that can be used to solicit bids from learning technology solution providers.

 “Organizations are looking to take their training to the next level but they need help to get there,” said Jeff Whitney, vice president of marketing, OutStart.  “We commissioned Chapman Alliance to create this toolkit to help companies set their strategy, build a business case, select the right technologies, and measure success.  Nothing in the toolkit is about OutStart, but OutStart always benefits from a well educated market.” 

Bryan Chapman, chief learning strategist at Chapman Alliance, LLC created the kit and has released it in conjunction with OutStart. Chapman has more than 20 years experience working with organizations including American Express, Shell, Kodak, Sprint, Sharp Electronics, Honda, IBM, Microsoft, Avon, UNICEF, and The FDA, to help them optimize learning efficiency through the use of innovative learning techniques and technologies.

About OutStart
OutStart software powers formal and on-demand learning, knowledge sharing and community/expert collaboration solutions that enable knowledge workers – employees, partners, and customers – to perform their roles far more efficiently and effectively.  AgustaWestland, Autodesk, British Telecom, CVS Caremark, the US Navy, Verizon Wireless and others rely on OutStart to increase individual and organizational performance, improve knowledge transfer and lower operating costs.  Located in Boston, Mass., OutStart has offices throughout the U.S. and Europe and can be found on the web at www.outstart.com