Situation / Challenge

EXIM recognized a need to modernize and digitize its online Training on Demand (eTod) system to help exporters, lenders, and brokers master the agency’s service portfolio. eTOD is an integrated, unified instructional platform containing learning objectives, lesson plans, participant guides, and knowledge checks that cover 12 distinct learning areas. This need for a refresh increased tenfold with arrival of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Approach

Sage began our engagement with a project plan outlining all required inputs, processes, sequences, timing, assignments, dependencies, outcomes, and quality inspection criteria for the “EXIM 101” program. Our plan included:

• Interviews, Discovery, and IDD

• Content Development

• Storyboarding and User Experience Design

• Module Production

• Prototyping and Testing

Our first step was to develop an Instructional Design Document (IDD) documenting EXIM 101’s course structure, navigation, design, and audio / visual elements. Sage captured program objectives and purpose; learning objectives by audience, segmented at both the program and topic levels; user personas and their learning requirements; technology foundations including development, deployment, and usage requirements; instructional strategies; visual components; content requirements; and assessment requirements.

To help refine these objectives, we conducted a small number of in-depth interviews with EXIM SMEs and delivered a competitive benchmark of relevant best practices for e-learning curriculums. Based on these findings, we crafted content for lesson plans, scripts for voice-over and technical direction, and knowledge checks for all 12 modules in line with Shareable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) standards.

Sage also developed brand-compliant mood boards to help inform each module’s storyboards. Our style reflected clean design with clickable text, lightbox UI for glossary terms and examples, icons, rich photography of the export community, and popups for important notes.

Sage produced each module in Articulate Storyline 360, an interactive course design software compatible with EXIM’s Learning Management System.

Results

Launch of EXIM 101 dramatically cut the time required by customers to master the agency’s service portfolio, as well as reduced EXIM’s administrative requirements. The final product was so well received that EXIM awarded Sage with a follow-up contract to develop “EXIM 201.”