Over the last three years, online video has become one of the fastest growing web trends due to the widespread availability of broadband and YouTube.  In fact, one of the most widely used search terms are “how to…” videos.

Now, more than ever before, there are hungry online audiences using video to educate themselves in their own homes.

And for good reason.

Everyone likes Pictures

In 2000, research by Gunter et al found that learners more easily understand and recall new material presented in video that allows participants to both see and hear the information.  This dual-encoding process reinforces information in multiple brain areas which increases the chances of the information being stored in long term memory.

While studies by educational researchers have found that 83% of human learning occurs visually.  Visually rich information keeps the brain busy and alert to learn more information.

You can’t see me

And videos can go where trainers can’t.  It’s fairly difficult to visualise how the back works and what happens when you lift incorrectly.  But clear medical animations can inform the user of how their spine works and what happens when they damage it.

When Trainers go Bad

Training videos also offer consistent training.  When different training facilitators are involved confusion can arise when they teach different processes.  In fact, inconsistent training is common within organisations, with around 54% stating that onboarding is inconsistent within their organisation.  Imagine what effect this has on productivity.

“I need more time”

When it comes to training, often trainers are overwhelmed by the amount of time they spend training and inducting face to face.  The truth is it doesn’t have to be this way.  By converting repetitive training tasks into easy to understand training video modules, the trainer can be relieved of repetitive training tasks.  And they can then spend time doing more important things like managing your site or taking the afternoon off to play golf.

You seem so Credible

Compared to written training materials, training videos actually increase comprehension and retention of subject matter by a staggeringly high 51%.  They actually command the attention of the viewer and motivate them to learn more.  But more importantly, they are perceived as more persuasive and credible than training materials which tend to be viewed as less important in comparison.

Here’s a test.  The next time you have to induct a contractor tell them that you need to sit down with them and read through your training manual.  After they curse and groan, smile and say, “actually, how about you watch our induction video with a small quiz?”  They will love you for life.  Or until the end of their shift.

Reduce Training Time

But the best part about training videos are that they teach information in around 50 – 75% of the time as an instructor.  And if you get an expertly produced training video made, expect productivity to increase also.  So if you are undertaking 45 minute inductions reducing the induction time to 12 minutes is about average.  Think about the cost savings to the trainer’s time and the new starter’s time.   The cost benefits can be quite enormous depending upon the amount of inductions your company does.