Software Simulation

Interactive Software Simulation
Image of "Software Simulation" title screen is open on a laptop.
Audience
Employees in a corporate setting who need to learn how to use Articulate Storyline 360 for their job
Responsibilities
Instructional Design, eLearning Development, Visual Design, Storyboard, Voice Over, Closed Captions, Transcript
Tools Used
Articulate Storyline 360, Audacity, Google Docs

The Problem

New or inexperienced employees lack the necessary knowledge and skills to use Articulate Storyline 360 software effectively. This can result in decreased productivity and ineffective course development.

The Solution

This course provides a demo of a comprehensive training solution that includes both video and interactive tutorials, allowing learners to build their knowledge and skills at their own pace. The video tutorial provides an introduction to the software's features and functionality, while the interactive tutorial allows learners to practice and apply their knowledge in a realistic simulation. This blended approach accommodates learners with different experience levels, ensuring that all employees can develop the necessary competencies to effectively use the software and achieve their project goals.

My Process

When planning this project, I recognized that I wouldn't be able to showcase the full range of features available in Articulate Storyline 360. Therefore, my first step was to identify the specific features that I wanted to highlight. I spent time using the software and experimenting with various basic functions. As I did so, I took note of the screenshots I would need to take and the most efficient way to perform the action.

Text-Based Storyboard

To ensure a smooth development process for this project, I recognized the importance of dedicating plenty of time to creating a comprehensive storyboard. When creating the storyboard, I focused on two key components.

First, I made sure that the correct voice-over files were matched with the corresponding transcript I'd written beneath it. This approach also streamlined the creation of closed captions and transcripts later on in the development process.

Secondly, I ensured that the screenshot files were listed accurately, particularly since multiple images were often used on each slide. By prioritizing these elements in the storyboard, I was able to make the development process more efficient and produce a high-quality final product.

Visual Mockups

When animating the cursor icon in the video portion, I invested significant effort into ensuring a smooth motion path and precise synchronization with the mouse click sound effect. 

I also made sure to capture screenshots that depicted menu options being highlighted by the mouse, replicating the experience of hovering over them during actual use. This attention to detail ensured a realistic and accurate representation of the software's functionality.

Image of the Storyline 360 Trigger Wizard drop down menu. The Cursor is highlighting "Show Layer".
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To maintain a consistent aesthetic, I opted to use the same shade of pink utilized in Storyline 360's product design.

Image of the Storyline 360 start up screen.
Image of the opening slide in the Software Simulation project.
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I carried this same pink color over to the highlight boxes and arrows which serve as hints for the learners during the interactive portion.

Image of a single scene and slide in Storyline. The slide is bordered by a pink box.
Image of the slide view in Storyline. There is a pink arrow pointing to the Desktop Preview icon.

To create an immersive experience for users, I prioritized capturing crisp screenshots that accurately reflected the software. To achieve this, I ensured that my computer display was set to the same resolution as my slide size, resulting in high-quality visuals.

Image of a computer display resolution 1920 x 1080.
Image of the slide size set up menu in Storyline  1920 x 1080.
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Full Development

In Storyline I created 3 separate scenes in order to organize my slides: the main menu, the video tutorial, and the interactive tutorial.

Zoomed in image in Storyline of the 3 scenes. The menu on top with the other two side by side beneath it.
Zoomed out image in Storyline of the 3 scenes. The menu on top with the other two side by side beneath it.
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Given the large number of slides and the amount of information in this project, I recognized the importance of providing learners with a user-friendly menu to navigate through the content.

To achieve this, I organized the menu in the player, highlighting key interactions and topics covered in the learning experience.

My goal was to ensure that learners had the ability to take control of their learning and jump back and forth between sections as needed.

Image of the first screen in the Software Simulation with a menu of the topics covered on the left.
Zoomed in image of the menu of the topics covered.
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The closed captions were created using the built-in Storyline feature. I ensured that the caption content and timing precisely matched that of the audio in order to make the experience equally accessible to all learners.

The transcripts were created by adding text to the "Notes" section of the slide. Then the player was modified to show the notes under the label "Transcript".

Image of captions being created in Storyline.
Image of captions on screen of the final product.
Image of the player tabs with "Transcript" selected.
Image of the final product with the transcript window open.
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Takeaways

Developing this project required time, patience, and attention to detail. I enjoyed the opportunity to create a voice over, captions, and a transcript. I was able to refine my skills in areas such as motion paths, smooth transitions, and slide timing, ultimately producing a polished and engaging learning experience that I am proud to showcase.

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