The Client Challenge
LTS was approached by a Multi-National Non-Profit organization to help them establish an internal Accessible eLearning practice that could consistently develop courses that would adhere to WCAG 2.1 AA standards. The client had an Accessibility lawsuit filed against them and two previous eLearning consultancies they engaged, had each failed to deliver eLearning that met industry standards (as a result the client had an acute sense of “buyer beware”). The client had a tight time commitment to deploy eLearning to several large user groups across the USA, and having ALL of these courses be fully ADA compliant to the WCAG 2.1 AA standards was absolutely critical. The client wanted to develop the on-going capability to consistently produce Accessible eLearning but also had to deliver multiple courses in a short timeframe. In short, they needed a partner that would both teach them to fish and catch fish at the same time.
The LTS Solution
LTS first focused on providing a Lead developer that could establish eLearning Accessibility standards and processes that a practice could be built upon. This lead was a Contract to Hire role that would eventually run the client’s Accessible eLearning department. LTS created a custom screening and interview process to ensure that the final 3 candidates all had the verified Accessibility experience and Instructional Design skills. To qualify for the final interview LTS had to review at least two Accessible eLearning samples, speak to a reference, answer an Accessibility quiz and match the client’s HR hiring requirements. Each of the 3 finalists were then given an assignment to review the Accessibility of a sample learning module. During the final interview with the client, candidates would present their methodology for assessing Accessibility, which elements of the course passed/failed, and what they would do to make the course Accessible.
The Results
Once the Lead developer was selected they first began to develop an Accessible Player within the eLearning Authoring Tool. This player was then evaluated and approved by the client’s head of Accessibility. On top of this player, the Lead then created several eLearning templates within the Authoring Tool and then documented the Design and Development steps for subsequent developers to follow. LTS was then asked to find 4 Instructional Designers (IDs) to work within these newly established processes and timeframes.
The Accessible eLearning team developed and deployed 6 fully Accessible eLearning courses to the business on time. The LTS Lead consultant was hired by the client two week’s prior to the deadline and now heads up their Enterprise Learning Department. The 6 courses received positive feedback from learners and LTS was given credit by the client for helping to establish a sustainable in-house competency. Going forward LTS will be called upon to meet eLearning development goals on a contract basis or Contract to Hire should the client look to add an additional FTE to their Enterprise Learning Team.
