Sean Gilligan, the Founder and Chairman of Webanywhere, a leading force in learning technology, wasn’t satisfied with the limitations of traditional training methods. Lengthy presentations and static documents struggled to capture the attention of a modern workforce. Recognising the power of video to engage and educate, Gilligan embarked on a mission to create a better solution. The result? Watch and Learn, an all-in-one video workplace platform designed to revolutionise communication and empower teams. In this blog, Gilligan dives deeper into his personal experience with Watch and Learn, exploring how he uses the platform to foster a thriving culture of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning within Webanywhere.
As the CEO of a company dedicated to learning solutions, I found myself facing a surprising irony – my own team wasn’t as engaged with traditional training methods as I’d hoped. Static documents and lengthy presentations just weren’t cutting it in today’s fast-paced environment. Information overload and a lack of interactivity were leading to disengagement, and I knew there had to be a better way.
That’s where the inspiration for Watch and Learn came in. It wasn’t just about creating a video platform; it was about building a tool that addressed the very challenges I was witnessing firsthand. Here’s how Watch and Learn has become an indispensable part of my daily workflow:
From Talking Head to Interactive Leader:
Monthly town hall meetings used to be a one-way street. My updates and announcements, while informative, lacked a spark. Watch and Learn allows me to pre-record concise, focused town halls (think 15-20 minutes, not hour-long lectures!). This ensures everyone on the team can access the information conveniently, regardless of location or timezone. But the real transformation comes from the interactive elements. Integrating polls and live Q&A sessions into the videos turns these meetings into dynamic experiences. Now, the team actively participates – asking questions, providing feedback, and engaging with the material in real-time. This two-way communication fosters a sense of connection and ensures everyone feels heard.
Empowering My Team to Become Teachers:
Watch and Learn is about more than just me disseminating information. It’s about fostering a culture of collaborative knowledge sharing. The platform empowers my team to create a wide variety of video content, turning everyone into a potential teacher and learner.
Here’s a glimpse into how Watch and Learn empowers my team:
- Bite-sized Training Gems: Team leads can easily record concise, informative videos that delve into specific topics or product features. These bite-sized modules fit seamlessly into busy schedules, allowing for on-demand learning that’s both efficient and engaging.
- Knowledge-Sharing Powerhouse: Watch and Learn’s screencasting and recording features make it easy for employees to share their expertise. Whether it’s showcasing efficient workflows or offering tips and tricks on software applications, knowledge can be disseminated widely and efficiently. This fosters a sense of ownership and pride, as team members become recognised experts within their areas.
- Onboarding Made Easy: Forget the paper manuals! We’ve developed a series of short video modules that introduce new hires to our company culture, core values, and essential workflows. These bite-sized videos allow new team members to learn at their own pace, providing a more personalised and engaging onboarding experience.
Data-Driven Decisions for Optimal Learning:
One of the most powerful features of Watch and Learn is its detailed analytics suite. The platform provides me with insights into how employees interact with the videos, allowing me to track metrics such as completion rates, engagement levels, and time spent on specific sections. This data is invaluable for tailoring future content to better meet the needs and interests of my team.
Here’s how this data-driven approach benefits me:
- Identifying Knowledge Gaps: By analysing which video sections have lower viewership or engagement, I can pinpoint areas where employees might need additional support or clarification. This allows me to proactively create targeted follow-up content or adjust existing videos to address those specific needs.
- Crafting Engaging Content: Analysing which types of videos receive the most positive feedback helps me understand the learning styles and preferences of my team. This data informs video production techniques, editing choices, and overall content delivery strategy, ensuring content resonates with the audience.
- Measuring Progress: Watch and Learn allows us to integrate quizzes and assessments into video modules. This allows me to gauge knowledge retention and understand the effectiveness of training content. By continuously analysing engagement and learning outcomes, I can fine-tune video content to ensure it remains relevant, impactful, and directly contributes to employee development.
Watch and Learn isn’t just a platform; it’s a philosophy. It’s about fostering a culture of open communication, collaboration, and continuous learning. By empowering everyone to leverage the power of video, Watch and Learn has helped me build a more engaged, connected, and ultimately, a more successful workforce.