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Learning management systems (LMSs) and virtual teams resolve the growing corporate call for large-scale and effective online training modules. Virtual teams help companies diversify and train their staff to compete in an increasingly globalized world.

Studies show that both virtual team members who are located in the same building and those who collaborate across the world are sharing an increasing amount of work online. Virtual teams often include individuals from a spectrum of cultures and nationalities. Not only are virtual teams a wise business strategy, but with e-learning they are easy to train.

Since virtual teams are often comprised of an eclectic and powerful mix of individuals, some soft skills are necessary to ensure effective communication. These include but are not limited to cultural sensitivity, work etiquette, and negotiation skills.

An LMS can be employed to assign roles within a virtual team so that every member understands his or her task. Virtual teams in training necessitate supervision and direction from the beginning until training ends. In addition, goals must be clearly stated.

Everyone is familiar with SMART, the acronym for organizational goals that reminds us they should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Results-Oriented, and Time-bound. And anyone with experience with virtual or face-to-face teams will tell you that the “Time-bound” part sometimes doesn’t materialize, and members need to redefine their goals. It is the leader’s responsibility to keep members on task and remind them of deadlines for assignments.

Learning Management Systems can be used to track team needs and accomplishments as well as develop and define goals.

As the team leader, create an egalitarian team spirit by downplaying titles and hierarchies, and instituting standard processes for executing assignments which apply to everyone.

Use your company LMS to implement cultural sensitivity and communication training for your virtual teams. Technical training cannot function on its own; in order for a virtual team to be successful, communication training is critical.