Developing Collaborative eLearning Content for Training

Creating a game-based learning activity requires the cooperation of an entire team of people. Each member of the team plays a different role and must perform their part well in order to develop an effective exercise.

Some of the members of an elearning content development team include a project manager, an artistic director, the expert on the subject matter, programmers, and storyboard writers. If the artistic director has a vision that is completely different from the storyboard writers, the project is in jeopardy. The team needs open communication to prevent the game from being ineffective. An ineffective game is a waste of the team’s time and the company’s money.

Effective collaboration

Communication is key, no matter the industry. When the aim is to develop content for an elearning program, communication is vital. The repercussions from a lack of communication can be significant.

Let’s take a look at some of the ways to keep information flowing freely between team members:

Consult the expert during each step of development. No one knows the subject matter better than the expert. That’s why they are the expert! Keep them apprised of all that’s happening throughout the design, development, and implementation phases to make sure that the content is accurate and relevant.

Make sure the goals and deadlines are practical and realistic. Checking items off a list can be very motivating for some. The goals for each team member should be clear and realistic. It is helpful for the members to keep up with what the others are doing and where they are in the process. Team meetings are essential to the process. Frequent communication can help team members see where they may be able to step in and help others. Keeping the goals attainable and the timeline reasonable can prevent frustration and encourage developers to stay motivated. Deadlines should allow each person enough time to complete milestones, without allowing too much extra time that could be spent better elsewhere.

Utilize software that allows sharing between team members. Think of a cloud-based service that the team can access at any time and from anywhere. Team members can communicate with each other and keep up with the project without having to all be in the same office at the same time. The added convenience will save time and time is money!

Set regular meeting times. There should be periodic standing dates for the team to meet together and update each other on their individual progress, as well as to assess the project as a whole. The regular meetings will keep everyone on track and meeting deadlines.

Keep talking. If one member of the team hits a snag, they should contact whomever they need to right away in order to resolve the matter as quickly as possible, without holding up the rest of the team. If an issue is important, don’t wait for the regular meeting. Send an email or pick up the phone and communicate.

Successful elearning content development process depends upon team members each doing their part, communicating freely with the others on the team, and meeting reasonable goals and deadlines.

Designing Digitally, Inc. has a high performance and engaged team ready to assist your organization with its elearning development and implementation initiatives.