Hearing the word “simulations” when referring to system trainings usually conjures up images of simple point-and-click training add-ons that most users rush through and ignore. It doesn’t have to be that way. Simulations can be high quality, realistic, and engaging with just a little time and know-how. They can go from being the garnish of the training to the main course.

In this hands-on workshop, we intend to challenge your perception of what a system training is versus what it can be through the use of simulations. Simulations is a very broad term so we will not only explore our example of a SIM, but also walk you through making your own basic version in either Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate, along with several other tools you probably already have and use.

The day will be spent taking you through the entire creation process—from analyzing scenarios, designing a simulation, building the final product, and publishing it. We will provide the necessary templates, building blocks, and everything else you will need to create your own SIM that you can take home, customize, and share.

In this session, you will learn:

• How system simulations can be an important part of your systems training portfolio
• How to use Articulate Storyline/Adobe Captivate to build a simulation
• How to enhance the simulation with multiple techniques and media types
• How to build and maintain templates for the purpose of creating simulations
• How to start building simulations at home

Technology discussed:

Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate, Adobe Creative Cloud, TechSmith’s SnagIt and Camtasia, Vyond

Participant technology requirements:

A laptop with internet access and the ability to download files. Also, access to either Articulate Storyline 360 or Storyline 3 or the latest version of Adobe Captivate. Any of the other programs listed are good, but not necessary to complete the workshop.