One of the defining features of contemporary technological progress is the shift of meetings and training programmes into online environments.
trend has generated certain challenges, I firmly believe that the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.
The primary benefit of virtual meetings is the inclusion of participants regardless of their physical location.
enables businesses to maintain efficiency and continuity even when staff are travelling or working abroad.
, when I visited Hong Kong in 2024, I was still able to deliver a quarterly presentation to potential investors through an online platform.
ensured that stakeholders remained informed of company performance, thereby sustaining both productivity and transparency.
A
advantage lies in the flexibility of online training. Employees can integrate professional development into their daily routines, often without interrupting their primary responsibilities. A study conducted by a Belgian university found that many workers, who were
too busy to complete traditional training programmes, valued the opportunity to engage in professional learning via platforms
as Zoom.
flexibility not only saves time but
fosters a culture of continuous learning.
Admittedly, there are drawbacks. Online platforms may expose participants to distractions
as gaming or online shopping, which can reduce concentration and hinder productivity. A case in point is Foggy, an Italian company that reportedly suffered losses in 2010 when employees diverted significant amounts of time to online shopping rather than work.
, the firm swiftly recovered within six months after implementing corrective measures,
as employees agreeing to extend their working hours.
example highlights that
challenges exist, they are not insurmountable.
In conclusion, despite occasional productivity setbacks linked to online distractions, the
benefits of virtual meetings and training—particularly in terms of accessibility, efficiency, and flexibility—clearly outweigh the disadvantages.
, the integration of online platforms into professional settings represents a highly positive development.