Targeted for results

We view instructional design as a lively, fascinating process. How does a mind learn? What’s the secret to keeping yawns down and retention up? And how do you make sure skills are mastered and will stick down the road?

Before we train, we learn — what the audience knows, what they need to know, and how to get there efficiently. By anchoring training in concepts and examples relevant to the audience, it comes to life in a meaningful way. Here is an overview of our approach.

• Target: Successful instructional design starts with the audience. We identify the target audience and gear everything toward it.



• Assess: We then conduct a needs assessment to determine the learning gap (what the audience knows versus what they need to know). Whether it’s knowledge or skills, we clearly identify what participants need to learn.



• Design: Once learning needs are established, we define measurable objectives, which focus the design and aid evaluation. From here, we design the training; our instructional design team includes Mager-certified professionals. We finish the design phase by “beta” testing the program to verify the approach and make final real-world adjustments before implementation.



• Implement: It’s show time! Our programs range from 15 minutes to multiple days, from small groups to thousands of participants.



• Feedback and follow-up: At the end of the course, or in subsequent weeks, we gather feedback from participants. This ranges from short evaluations to more extensive data collection relating to the measurable objectives. Feedback is vital for evaluating and refining existing training. It’s also a starting point for follow-up reinforcement training and on-the-job certification programs, which help keep knowledge and skills fresh.

We understand logistical and budgetary considerations, and we always maintain a flexible attitude. If there is a particular challenge, we can adapt the program while still ensuring that the training is effective. Whether collaborating with your in-house instructional designers or providing turnkey services, we’ll consult with you to establish priorities, and we’ll advise you on how to maximize your investment.