Some commentator use a similar term for workplace learning to improve performance: “training and development”. One can generally categorize such training as on-the-job or off-the-job.

• On-the-job training takes place in a normal working situation, using the actual tools, equipment, documents or materials that trainees will use when fully trained. On-the-job training has a general reputation as most effective for vocational work. 
• Off-the-job training takes place away from normal work situations — implying that the employee does not count as a directly productive worker while such training takes place. Off-the-job training has the advantage that it allows people to get away from work and concentrate more thoroughly on the training itself. This type of training has proven more effective in inculcating concepts and ideas.

The most frequently used method in smaller organizations that is on the job training. This method of training uses more knowledgeable, experienced and skilled employees, such as mangers, supervisors to give training to less knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced employees. OJT can be delivered in classrooms as well. This type of training often takes place at the work place in informal manner.

On the Job Training is characterized by following points

• It is done on ad-hoc manner with no formal procedure, or content 
• At the start of training, or during the training, no specific goals or objectives are developed 
• Trainers usually have no formal qualification or training experience for training 
• Training is not carefully planned or prepared 
• The trainer are selected on the basis of technical expertise or area knowledge.

Formal OJT programs are quite different from informal OJT. These programs are carried out by identifying the employees who are having superior technical knowledge and can effectively use one-to-one interaction technique. The procedure of formal on the job training program is.

1. The participant observes a more experienced, knowledgeable, and skilled trainer (employee)

2. The method, process, and techniques are well discussed before, during and after trainer has explained about performing the tasks

3. When the trainee is prepared, the trainee starts performing on the work place

4. The trainer provides continuing direction of work and feedback

5. The trainee is given more and more work so that he accomplishes the job flawlessly.