Purpose: The elearn2work study of learning styles in the context of small to micro firms' (SMFs) and their perceived satisfaction has identified some important finding specific to e-learning content design, delivery and international standards development. Design/methodology/approach: The method of research adopts a deductive rather than an inductive approach via descriptive profiling and multivariate statistical analysis. Findings: From the elearn2work study we have identified tentative findings that indicate e-learning inequity for many SMF learners including employees and managers. From our research there is a clear gap between the profile of SMF learners, in the context of their learning style, and the typical content that is currently being designed for e-learning provision. The sector is driven by analytic type educators/trainers who are frequently not a reflection of SMF learners. Originality/value: It could be argued that many SMF workers are currently being socially excluded from e-learning provision through pedagogy inequity when considering the lack of learning styles support in work-based learning practice. (Contains 2 tables and 2 figures.)