A Sticky Problem: Delivering Performance Reviews to Improve Sales Goals

Project Overview

This project was completed as part of the February 2025 design challenge from the eLearning design academy. https://community.elearningacademy.io/c/design-challenges/.

In this microlearning, sales managers are coached on how to deliver effective feedback to their sales team working for the company Funnder Miflon. This is a take on the fictional company Dunder Mifflin from the TV show The Office. Characters and dialog are meant to be funny and light hearted simulating the show’s humor. Learners will benefit from scenario based learning while having a laugh at the dialog.

Problem

Despite Funnder Miflon’s long-standing reputation in office supplies, last year was a rough year. Digital solutions challenged sales of sticky notes and sales teams reported a reduction in orders. Morale is down and teams need help using their strengths to build on their weaknesses. Leadership now expects sales managers to evaluate team performance and inspire sales teams to enhance their skills to improve sales in the coming year.

Solution

I designed an interactive and engaging scenario-based learning module specifically tailored for regional sales managers, using a humorous and relatable context to boost participation and retention. At the core of this module is the "sandwich method"—a proven feedback technique that helps managers deliver constructive criticism while maintaining morale. The module introduces this method through a fictional but realistic workplace scenario, allowing learners to observe how effective feedback is structured with positive reinforcement, constructive critique, and a motivating close. To reinforce these skills, the module includes a series of practice scenarios where participants can analyze interactions, make decisions, and receive guided feedback. This experiential approach allows regional sales managers to refine their communication techniques in a safe environment, ultimately helping them build stronger relationships with their teams and foster a culture of continuous improvement and motivation..

The Process

Scripting

I decided to use the humor of the TV show The Office to connect with the learner. Even if they have never heard of the show, the jokes are lighthearted and help you engage with the course objectives.
One of the biggest challenges I had during this phase of the process was creating an authentic way for the characters to speak with each other and walk learners through the learning objectives. I decided to do this by having the main character present the materials using audio and visuals. This sleek interaction is easy to look at and keeps the learner interested.
I used my initial framework and my revised narrative to write-up the storyboard in Microsoft Word. This helped me to see the interactions and adjust. Since this is micro-learning, timing was important, and I did many iterations before it felt natural.

Storyboard

The development process began with scripting the content to ensure clarity, tone, and instructional flow. Once the script was finalized, I moved into the visual planning phase by sketching out each slide by hand. These initial sketches helped me visualize how the content, visuals, and interactive elements would align on screen, ensuring a logical and engaging learner experience. Using Canva, I then brought these sketches to life by designing custom graphics that matched the tone and objectives of the module—balancing professionalism with a touch of humor to keep the content approachable and memorable.
To organize and streamline the development process, I created a comprehensive storyboard template in Microsoft Word. This storyboard served as a central planning document where I mapped out all elements of each slide, including narration text, visual assets, interactive features, and instructional cues. This allowed for easy collaboration, review, and revision before moving into final production. By thoroughly storyboarding the content, I was able to ensure instructional alignment, visual consistency, and a smooth learner experience from start to finish.

Development in Storyline

This course marked my first full development project using Articulate Storyline, and it proved to be both a rewarding and creatively challenging experience. As I explored the platform’s capabilities, I was especially excited to experiment with audio narration. I knew from the outset that I wanted to use text-to-speech technology to create a dynamic and engaging voiceover experience. Achieving the right pacing, tone, and intonation took significant effort, as I fine-tuned the narration to sound natural and conversational. After testing several voice options, I selected one that bore a humorous resemblance to Steve Carell’s character, Michael Scott, from The Office—which added a light, engaging tone that complemented the module’s scenario-based humor and made the content more relatable.
Beyond the audio, I focused on embedding specific, actionable feedback within the scenario responses. Rather than offering generic correct/incorrect messages, I crafted targeted feedback designed to deepen learners’ understanding of the learning objectives. This included breaking down why certain choices were more effective, how they aligned with communication best practices, and what could be improved in less optimal responses. By blending humor, voiceover narration, and meaningful feedback, the course delivers an interactive and memorable learning experience that reinforces key managerial skills in a way that feels authentic and practical.

Tools Used

Articulate Storyline
Photoshop
PPT
Microsoft Word
Canva