Inherited a project at my new job... need some advice?

I just started a new job as an Instructional Designer and took over this huge onboarding project that’s all in PDFs. My boss thinks it’s a great idea because people can read them on mobile. But honestly, I find PDFs clunky on my phone. Has anyone else dealt with this? Would love some thoughts.


An introductory page in the “Phase Guide”. It highlights the main learning assets, key contacts, and objectives (called goals, on the left) for each numbered goal of the phase.


An example of a part of a “Learning Goal” called “FAQ”, with interactive buttons to reveal the answer. IMO, this is not a “learning goal” so much as “learning content” or maybe a “job aid”.


I feel you! PDFs can be such a pain on mobile. I prefer interactive eLearning for stuff like this.

CHOSEN4 said:
I feel you! PDFs can be such a pain on mobile. I prefer interactive eLearning for stuff like this.

Exactly! I can’t stand scrolling forever. Have you tried suggesting a different format?

@Alton
Yeah, I mentioned Articulate 360. It could really help make it more engaging.

I once inherited a similar project. Switching to microlearning modules made a huge difference!

Mickey said:
I once inherited a similar project. Switching to microlearning modules made a huge difference!

That sounds smart! How did you get buy-in from your boss?

DukeHenry4 said:

Mickey said:
I once inherited a similar project. Switching to microlearning modules made a huge difference!

That sounds smart! How did you get buy-in from your boss?

I showed some data on engagement. It really helped sway him!

I totally get it! PDFs seem easier, but they can lose people’s attention fast.

Harris said:
I totally get it! PDFs seem easier, but they can lose people’s attention fast.

Right? I’m worried it’s not effective for software training either.

Have you thought about using videos alongside the PDFs? That might help!

Addison said:
Have you thought about using videos alongside the PDFs? That might help!

Definitely! Some videos could make the software training way easier to follow.

IDK, maybe it’s just how they’re used to learning? But PDFs seem outdated for training.

Adrian said:
IDK, maybe it’s just how they’re used to learning? But PDFs seem outdated for training.

Yeah, I get that. But there are so many better options now!