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Core:

An eLearning storyboard saves time and resources by helping you find problems in the learning experience before you finalize it.

Let’s answer that question first.

Of course not.

You don’t really need a storyboard.

You also don’t need to cook using a recipe or follow the instructions when building IKEA furniture.

But what happens when you don’t follow a recipe or adhere to instructions?

You make a mess of things and waste time, energy, and materials.

The same is true in learning experience design.

Storyboards can save time, energy, and resources.

Why?

A storyboard helps you to see how the learning experience will come together and function once it’s complete. So a storyboard can help you find parts of the learning experience that need adjustment before you finalize the entire course.

Does the learner get enough practice to be able to perform the skill or apply the information practically?

Is a branching scenario or simulation really contributing to the goal of the learning experience?

The storyboard helps you to discern the answers and make better decisions.

Think about this, how much of your hair would you pull out if you built and authored an entire course only for a stakeholder to say: “Oh, we were expecting something a little different.”? Half? One-third? Do you really have that much hair to spare? I didn’t think so.

A storyboard prevents surprises for clients and devastation and baldness for you as an instructional designer.

‘But didn’t you say that I don’t really need a storyboard?’

It’s true. You also don’t really need hair. But it’s sure nice to have, isn’t it?

Even if you’re working on a project that you determine does not need a storyboard, you will still benefit from creating one.

Why?

Because it gives you more practice communicating ideas visually.

That is a skill that will serve you well in your instructional design career.

The better you get at conveying ideas simply and clearly using a visual medium, the more effective and confident you will be designing learning experiences.

Remember: The storyboard is your friend. It helps you to find problems in the learning experience and to take appropriate steps to fix them. It also ensures that everyone on the team is on the same page as the development of the learning experience progresses.

Next: Who should see your storyboard?

Further Reading:

The Comprehensive Guide to Storyboarding for E-learning—Part 01: What is a Storyboard?

The Comprehensive Guide to Storyboarding for Learning Experience Design: Elevate Yourself from Mediocrity to Master. IDOL Courses Academy. April 12, 2022. https://www.idolcourses.com/blog/storyboard

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Brian Harris

Brian Harris is the Chief of Design and Development with Brilliant Educational Services. He specializes in producing learning experiences and educational materials that are engaging, entertaining, and effective.