Case Study
Redesigning a Training Program
This project involved redesigning an outdated training program that helped compliance professionals analyze the financial health of employee benefit plans and identify potential violations. The original program, last taught in 2018, needed a refresh to reflect the agency’s new focus.
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The challenge? The audience had mixed backgrounds---some had formal accounting training, while others had very little. We needed a design that would meet learners where they were, without slowing down those who already had strong financial skills.
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I played multiple roles in this redesign. As the Design & Development Lead, I assisted with the analysis, authored the design document outlining the learning strategy and objectives, and served as the primary instructional designer responsible for writing and developing all the modules.
Understanding the Problem
To start, we reviewed the old course materials and gathered insights through interviews, surveys, and a roundtable discussion with the program's leaders and subject matter experts. We also researched the professional and educational backgrounds of past participants to better understand our audience.
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The findings were clear:
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Most participants had 2–3 years of investigative experience, but not all were investigators.
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The old program relied heavily on lectures and lacked hands-on practice.
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There was no consistent way to measure whether participants had actually mastered the material, and past assessments showed patterns of grade inflation.
Learning Strategy
I chose a blended approach, pairing self-paced eLearning with interactive, instructor-led “flex” sessions that could be delivered online or in person—giving the client both flexibility and cost savings.
Asynchronous
Learning
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Short, focused modules delivered online.
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Interactive scenarios and simulations to connect concepts to real-world cases.
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Knowledge checks to track learner progress and provide the client insight into understanding and readiness.
Synchronous Learning
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Small group activities, discussions, and problem-solving exercises.
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Roleplay and hands-on analysis practice.
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Instructors act more as coaches than lecturers, giving targeted feedback.
Right Format,
Right Content
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Online modules: Focused on delivering informational content with enhanced engagement (video scenarios + decision points).
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In-person sessions: Reserved for complex topics requiring practical, interactive exercises to maximize seat time and skill development.
Design Document Example
This table is an excerpt from the 15-page design document I created for this program, highlighting the engagement methods in the flexible instructor-led sessions.
Other sections detail session structure, learning objectives, target audience, program goals, evaluation methods, and our approach for collaborating with the client.
Video Example
I developed this video using Adobe Illustrator for custom graphics and Vyond for animation, based on existing training materials.
I wrote the script, designed the visual elements, and structured the animation to be engaging and easy to follow.
The video was intentionally created to be versatile—usable across multiple training programs or as a standalone module—while clearly conveying key concepts and supporting consistent understanding for learners.
Design choices, including custom icons and visual metaphors, were made to enhance clarity, retention, and learner engagement.
How I Built It
1 / Design Process
I followed an iterative ADDIE approach, collaborating closely with SMEs in regular design meetings. I created storyboards for eLearning in Articulate Storyline, scripts for Vyond videos, and in-person session materials in Word and PowerPoint—all built to meet Section 508 standards. Teams and monday.com kept the project organized and transparent.
2 / Feedback
I led the QA process, reviewing materials for accuracy, clarity, accessibility, and alignment to objectives. Internal team, SME and client feedback was incorporated continuously, ensuring the design stayed relevant and closely reflected real-world compliance scenarios.
3 / Supporting Consistent Delivery
I designed a comprehensive program guide with detailed facilitation tips and best practices, as well as program information such as learning objectives and a suggested schedule.
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I also developed a full Train-the-Trainer curriculum to ensure consistent and effective delivery across all instructors.
Results & Impact
The final program was well-received, addressing key gaps by adding real-life examples and replacing traditional exams with applied activities to boost engagement and accuracy. The train-the-trainer session prepared instructors to deliver the program effectively, ensuring learners gain confidence in applying accounting and financial analysis skills on the job.