Measure twice, cut once. A detailed storyboard saves time and money. While a rapid prototype visual storyboard is sometimes needed, written storyboards enable the designer and stakeholders to understand the scale and complexity of a project before digital design time begins.
The review process is a key part of creating effective and engaging learning materials. Collaboration with subject matter experts (SMEs) and stakeholders helps refine the content, ensuring it's clear, correct, engaging, and accessible. In the end, the review process helps make sure that the final product is both informative and enjoyable for learners.
The design portion of the instructional design process is where the vision for the learning experience starts to take shape. During this phase, I plan how the content will be delivered, choosing the best modality based on the needs of the learners and the goals of the course. The timeline for designing the learning materials can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the chosen delivery.
For example, creating a simple PowerPoint presentation or a job aid may only take a few days to design and finalize, while more interactive or multimedia-based materials, such as a Vyond animation or video, can take several weeks to complete, depending on the length and level of detail required.
A good needs assessment and a properly review plan ensures that the learning experience is both efficient and impactful, while also keeping in mind the time and resources available. The design phase is adaptable and responsive, with timelines and deliverables tailored to match the chosen approach and the specific needs of the learners.
Every learning experience needs a proper retrospective. Understanding learner engagement, application, and identifying whether or not targeted outcomes have been met are important finishing steps of the learning experience process.