Leading design during the Covid-19 crisis presented its own unique challenges. This case study explores the outcomes and design considerations behind our successful knowledge distribution system, developed under strict timelines while managing diverse talent and juggling concurrent projects.
It All Came as a
Response to Crisis
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) urgently needed to train its 10,000 staff spread across diverse regions on Intervention, Protection & Control measures to effectively respond to the crisis. This diverse group, including doctors, nurses, and support staff, had varying levels of internet access, language preferences, and job responsibilities.
A Fast Solution for a ...
Scalable & Responsive Training
The client needed a scalable and rapidly deployable (within 4 weeks) learning solution that could seamlessly adapt to evolving COVID-19 knowledge. The solution needed to be easy to maintain and update for MSF on the back-end, while also providing a positive user experience (front-end) for learners.
The Approach ...
Always Learner First, Even in Emergencies
Despite the rapid development timelines, the approach remains user-centred to ensure its efficacy. . Through a design thinking sprint, we identified limitations in MSF's existing system, namely its inflexibility and inability to track learner engagement. This hampered information access and hindered updates as Covid knowledge evolved very frequently.
The Result
Designing and Building Under Tight Constraints
Leveraging existing MSF assets and video animations, we built a bespoke eLearning course within 4 weeks. Integrating seamlessly with Open EdX, the new system empowers MSF to update and deliver training efficiently. To address varying internet speeds, we adopted a design language suitable for low-bandwidth environments.
Shifting Gears: From Static to Responsive Learning
Static training materials were transformed into a dynamic learning experience with multimedia components: engaging videos, interactive activities, and informative infographics. Offered in both Arabic and English, these modules fostered proactive learning and knowledge retention within a customisable learning ecosystem for diverse staff roles and knowledge levels, while enabling learner engagement tracking.
The Impact
Quantifiable Success
Reach increased by 400%: MSF's learner base grew from 883 to 4,535 in just three months, demonstrating the scalability and effectiveness of the training solution.
High completion rates: With more than 50% average completion rate, learners actively engaged with the material, ensuring knowledge transfer.
Empowered Learning: MSF now possesses a dynamic and responsive training system that adapts to evolving needs and knowledge while also offering comprehensive tracking capabilities to enhance future learner experiences.A Deeper Look
Designing for Impact
Strategic Choices Under Pressure
Every decision counted in this project, where urgency and limited resources dictated our approach. From branding to media, everything focused on achieving fast development within tight timelines and budget constraints.
Balancing Efficiency and Identity: Facing a packed schedule, we outsourced illustrations while keeping in-house art direction. This optimised development time while letting us explore MSF's identity through unique visuals, ultimately elevating the platform's tone and strengthening brand presence.
Leveraging Existing Assets: We uplifted MSF's existing animations and videos, giving them a fresh look while maintaining brand consistency. This minimised development time without compromising recognition.
Building for Adaptability: To address evolving needs and diverse knowledge levels, we integrated with Open EdX, creating a responsive learning platform that empowers MSF to seamlessly deliver and update training.
Reaching Diverse Learners: We ensured accessibility across MSF's locations by employing low-bandwidth optimised multimedia elements. Additionally, modules offered in both Arabic and English catered to different language preferences and cultural contexts.
Engaging and Sustainable Learning: Integrating infographics, interactive activities, and uplifting video styles fostered learner engagement and knowledge retention. Additionally, modular content blocks facilitated future content creation by MSF, promoting self-sufficiency and maintaining brand coherence.
This project demonstrates the power of prioritising user needs, embracing constraints, and creatively leveraging resources. By doing so, we delivered a sustainable, scalable, and responsive training system, saving time, lives, and resources for MSF in the fight against COVID-19.
Setting the stage
- Setting the stage -
Outcome Snapshots
LMS
LMS Interactions
Infographics
Credits