E-learning vs face-to-face WMS training: an objective comparison

Choosing the right warehouse management tool is only the first half of the battle. You also need to be able to train your staff on how to use it and provide continuous updates on new advancements and best practices.

WMS training typically comes in face-to-face and online flavors, each of which provides its own benefits and drawbacks. Let’s take a high-level look at the pros and cons of both learning options to see what may be the right path for you or if you might want to look for a system that offers each type of training.

E-learning

Pros

• Software-based problems can be programmed as sample scenarios. With an e-learning environment, your staff can work in a virtual version of your WMS where issues are demonstrated and teams can practice troubleshooting. Sandbox labs and scenario builders are common features in WMS training courses.
• Digital videos and training modules are available on demand, so staff can rewatch and practice as needed. That makes e-learning useful for refresher training and new-hire onboarding.
• You reduce human inconsistency. Training modules can be tailored to a specific WMS and version, so learners see the exact workflows they’ll use.
• Built-in assessments let you measure competence. Many e-learning platforms lock progression until learners pass tests and provide reporting dashboards for managers.

Figure out the best way to train your users using this comprehensive WMS implementation guide

Cons

• Per-user pricing or license models can feel expensive for very small, infrequent cohorts. However, for most organizations that train repeatedly or at scale, e-learning often becomes more cost-effective than repeated in-person sessions. Run the numbers for expected training frequency and headcount before assuming one format is cheaper.
• Generic modules sometimes need customization. Some off-the-shelf courses cover best practice but require additional configuration or notes to match your exact WMS setup. Plan to pair vendor/third-party e-learning with short, system-specific scripting or sandbox exercises
• Complex, context-specific questions may take longer to resolve through asynchronous support. If a question requires deep system admin access or bespoke integration details, you may need an escalation path to a product expert.

When to choose: Use online WMS training for consistent, repeatable onboarding, role-based learning (picker, packer, supervisor), refresher courses, and version-specific release notes delivered as short modules.

Face-to-face WMS training

Pros

• Clears grey areas quickly. In-person training invites immediate follow-up questions and helps teams resolve ambiguous or advanced problems on the spot. Trainers can replicate your live processes and suggest on-floor optimizations.
• Easier to run physical drills. If you want to test layout changes, put people in the exact warehouse environment and run timed drills with a trainer present; face-to-face sessions let you do that.
• Builds collaboration and cross-functional understanding. A skilled trainer can design group exercises that teach not just software steps, but how different roles interact with the WMS in real flows.

Find WMS vendors that offer the type of training you need with our free software comparison tool

Cons

• Higher direct costs for travel, accommodation, and trainer time, especially when teams are geographically dispersed.
• Human answers can vary. Trainers are valuable for nuance, but on-the-fly answers can occasionally be incomplete. Plan follow-ups or recorded Q&A to lock down the authoritative solution.
• Testing and follow-up can slip outside scheduled sessions. If you don’t pair classroom sessions with structured assessments, you may need extra time later to verify competency.

When to choose: Opt for in-person training for complex process redesigns, cross-team simulations, go-live cutovers, or when you require immediate, high-fidelity troubleshooting and team building.

So, who wins?

There’s no direct winner. Most training strategies now combine both approaches into a blended program, featuring structured e-learning for baseline competence and on-demand refreshers, along with targeted face-to-face sessions for complex scenarios, live drills, or go-live support. Blended programs are now widely recommended by vendors and training providers because they balance cost, consistency, and hands-on effectiveness

Some vendors offer both instructor-led and self-paced options (e.g., Oracle’s NetSuite WMS Essentials and Cadre’s training services). Look for vendors that provide sandboxes, role-based tracks, and reporting tools.