The Shift from User Manuals to Video Content in Industrial Training

In today’s fast-paced industrial environment, the reluctance to read user manuals is becoming increasingly evident. This trend is not just a minor inconvenience but a significant shift that is reshaping how companies approach training and development. Let’s explore why this change is happening and how video content is stepping up to fill the gap.

The Reluctance to Read User Manuals

User manuals have long been the go-to resource for understanding complex machinery and processes. However, studies show that a significant portion of people avoid reading them. For instance, a UK survey found that one in five people skips the manual, while a US report indicated that up to 50% of people do the same1. This reluctance can be attributed to several factors:

  1. Complexity and Length: Manuals are often dense, filled with technical jargon, and can be overwhelming.
  2. Time Constraints: In a busy work environment, employees may not have the time to sit down and read through lengthy documents.
  3. Preference for Visual Learning: Many people find it easier to understand and retain information through visual aids rather than text.

The Rise of Video Content

As the reluctance to read manuals grows, video content is emerging as a powerful alternative. Video has several advantages that make it an ideal tool for industrial training:

  1. Engagement and Retention: Videos combine visual and auditory elements, making them more engaging and easier to remember. Research shows that video-based training can increase retention rates by 25-60% compared to traditional methods2.
  2. Demonstrating Complex Processes: Videos can effectively demonstrate complex procedures and real-life scenarios, making them more relatable and actionable.
  3. Accessibility and Convenience: Videos can be accessed on-demand, allowing employees to learn at their own pace and revisit the content whenever needed.

Implementing Video in Industrial Training

To leverage the benefits of video content, companies need to adopt a strategic approach. Here are some best practices:

  1. Identify Training Needs: Determine which areas of your training program can benefit most from video content. This could include onboarding, safety procedures, or technical skills.
  2. Create High-Quality Content: Invest in producing high-quality videos that are clear, concise, and engaging. Use real people or subject matter experts to enhance credibility and relatability.
  3. Incorporate Interactive Elements: Enhance videos with interactive elements such as quizzes, annotations, and clickable links to keep learners engaged and reinforce learning.
  4. Utilize AI Tools: Leverage AI-powered tools for effortless video creation from existing documentation. For example, Marble Hill Partner Oy offers a new AI-powered tool that can generate training videos from your PDF documents, making the process faster and more efficient.
  5. Measure Effectiveness: Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of your video training programs through feedback and performance metrics to ensure they meet your training goals.

Conclusion

The shift from user manuals to video content in industrial training is not just a trend but a necessary evolution. As employees increasingly prefer visual learning, companies must adapt to meet these preferences. By embracing video content, businesses can create more effective, engaging, and accessible training programs that cater to the needs of their workforce.

1: BBC 2: TechSmith

What are your thoughts on this shift? Have you experienced the benefits of video training in your workplace?