Can you earn your bagging boots?

Action Mapping

I worked with a Subject Matter Expert (SME) to develop an action map to define the overall goal for the learning experience. By doing so, we were able to pinpoint exactly why CSA’s were not checking the BOB and identified the most common items that were bagged incorrectly. We then identified the tasks and/or actions CSA’s would have to complete to ensure the bagging process was successful every time.

The project focused on obtaining the skills necessary to effectively reduce the number of items needed to be replaced due to bagging techniques and failure to check the bottom of the basket. During our meeting, we set observable actions which were specific to achieving that goal. When observable actions could be broken down further, we added an additional branch to that action. Upon further discussion, and consideration of the level of steps needed to have a successful bagging process, we focused on six key individual actions. Those actions would then serve as the six questions that I would use to develop each interaction in the scenario.

After the SME reviewed and approved the action map, I moved on to the text-based storyboard.

Text-based Storyboard

After the action map was created, I began working on outlining the learning experience from beginning to end through a text-based storyboard. I used Google Docs since it is a simple service that can save my work as needed and can be shared with the expert all while maintaining it organized. My process included every title and prompt screen, along with the positive consequence when the user answers correctly and the two real life consequences if the user clicks the incorrect choice. Because the learner can get assistance from a mentor button, those tips were also included in the storyboard. As I worked on this part of the process, I strived to provide an authentic learning experience. I used company terminology throughout the prompts and made sure the wording remained on brand.

Visual Mockups

After the client approved the text-based storyboard, I jumped on Adobe XD to create mockups of the scenario based learning experience. The client and I discussed using their brand colors on the visual assets. I designed a variety of potential title pages and provided options to present for feedback and discussion to decide which layouts I would use for the final product.

Company Product Illustrations

Because I wanted this experience to be more authentic to the learners, I came up with the idea to include small visual assets that would make the experience feel genuine and relevant to learners. Upon further discussion with the client, I agreed to hop onto Adobe Illustrator to create custom visuals for the learning experience. This was one of my favorite parts because I was able to use my attention to detail skills to identify key elements that would make the experience meaningful. The assets I created include the staple H-E-B name tag on the CSA and mentor, company logos on the reusable bags and boots, a custom mentor button and of course my favorite part, the actual H-E-B items.

Interactive Prototype

The interactive prototype served as the “first look” at how the project would look and function. For this prototype, I used Articulate Storyline 360 to show the opening screen, introduction prompts, slide interactions, slide layouts and button functionality. From there, I submitted the prototype for feedback and made revisions as needed. Some of the feedback we discussed included removing the initial red and green color on the consequence slides. I expressed to the client how the colors would give an immediate response and the learner thus leaving users to simply click off and try again or continue without reading the consequence first. They agreed and I adjusted the colors and moved forward. It became a process of feedback and revision from then on, which led to the fully functioning learning experience.

Full Development

I developed the final project in Articulate Storyline 360. I created custom visuals in Adobe Illustrator from assets gathered from an image site as well as illustrations created from scratch. Once the learner completes the scenario experience, a slide with a certificate comes up to print for records.

Reflections

The fully developed product was delivered to a few CSA’s of multiple H-E-B stores in San Antonio. Many noted how useful this experience was for them as the visuals and the scenarios were memorable enough to apply in the store. Other peers also mentioned how visually pleasing the design was, how engaging the interactions were, and how legitimate the experience felt. The project allowed me to work with a client, SMEs, managers, and learners to create a scenario-based eLearning experience. It provided a chance for me to grow as an instructional designer and eLearning developer.

Creatively, as a learning experience designer, I had a blast creating custom scenes for the client to bring the project to life. I look forward to seeing the managers and CSA’s reach the shrink reduction goals at H-E-B.