Learner-Driven Content: The Next Wave in Development

Finally, user-generated content provide a means of creating a whole range of media and interaction, from meta-discussions about other content to blogs and wikis, video demonstrations, typical Microsoft Office files and traditional learning materials such as courses and curriculum. There is a whole continuum of possible consumption and participation that appeals to different learning styles as well as different objectives.

Consider the following scenarios:

1. A salesperson is on the phone with a prospect who needs a quote about the solution set with “X” features and “Y” number of users.
2. A salesperson is learning about the new pricing model and its various options for the first time.
3. A salesperson is in the final stages of the sales cycle and needs some advice on how to position the new pricing model effectively.

These require very different “learning” solutions. Scenario 1 would call for some sort of job aid or, absent that, an “Ask a Question” or instant-messaging sort of scenario that instantly connects salespeople to colleagues. Scenario 2 is probably a good case for a Webinar, a PowerPoint or mini-course, depending on the complexity and whether the sales team will be assessed on its newly acquired knowledge. Scenario 3 requires advice, perhaps from a sole expert who might be found through the social network, a group (as in a discussion forum) or maybe through a video that an expert salesperson might have recorded on how to overcome pricing objections.