Summary
What happens when a global pandemic changes work as we know it? The IBM Patterns Design Education team had to pivot from an immersive, in-person program to an entirely virtual environment in a matter of weeks. That experience left a lasting impact, including recognition from the iF Design Awards! In this session, Umphress will share ideas for making the most of the virtual working experience, including: Being intentional in choosing to conduct live vs asynchronous work sessions Utilizing a solid storytelling model to make challenging situations emotionally fulfilling (e.g.: using Enterprise Design Thinking or incorporating the cadence of “challenges and victories” in the Hero’s Journey) Embracing the opportunity to enrich programs with your organization's experts in design, development, and product management
Key Insights
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The pivot from in-person to virtual education programs can be executed effectively through research and user feedback.
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Storytelling techniques can enhance engagement and relatability in educational content.
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Utilizing various digital tools can foster interactive and collaborative learning experiences.
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Creating intentional opportunities for social interaction is crucial in a virtual environment.
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Continuous learning should be prioritized to retain talent and improve employee satisfaction.
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Feedback mechanisms are essential in evolving educational programs.
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Adjusting content for different experience levels among participants keeps the material engaging for all.
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The use of asynchronous learning complemented synchronous sessions to provide flexibility.
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Community building activities can alleviate feelings of isolation in remote settings.
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The redesign of educational programs during crisis can lead to innovative practices that persist beyond immediate needs.
Notable Quotes
"Everything is a prototype and every program we deliver is different in some way from the last."
"It takes a village to deliver a successful educational program."
"Don't undervalue the tools that are available to you; ask your network what others are using."
"When someone stops learning, they get bored and look for something new."
"Incorporating interactive and engaging content is key for remote learning."
"There's a natural rigor built into the storytelling model that is crucial for program design."
"We're running a lot and we plan to run more; our educational offerings are expanding rapidly."
"This program allowed designers to see each other in their natural life, messy hair and all."
"We're developing new programs for designers at various stages of their careers to ensure continuous growth."
"Don't forget to provide opportunities for your people to learn, be challenged, and grow."
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