This branching interactive piece, authored in Storyline 360, was presented to a group of teachers and designers working for the Nebraska Department of Education during a workshop in June of 2023. The purpose of the workshop was to introduce potential designers to the tools available in the Storyline suite and how to develop basic skills in order to build an interactive piece that meets learning objectives.
In this piece, a customer service agent at a kayak store must deal with customers with issues. The objective is to have the customer service person respond to the customer's queries in an effort to satisfy them and de-escalate the situation. Learners choose response options with feedback on those consequences.
Branching interactives are powerful tools in e-learning because they simulate real-life decision-making, allowing learners to explore different outcomes based on their choices. This active engagement deepens understanding, promotes critical thinking, and enhances retention by making learning more personal and relevant. Instead of passively receiving information, learners interact with the content in a meaningful way, which helps cement knowledge and build confidence in applying it.
Summary of the Branching Interactive:
This branching scenario simulates a business case decision-making process, guiding learners through a realistic sequence of questions (Q1–Q7) with multiple decision paths. Each question offers three response options, allowing learners to explore different outcomes based on their choices. Progress meters and feedback layers enhance the sense of movement and accomplishment. The scenario culminates in a results screen, giving learners either a pass or fail based on their decisions.
Why This Matters for Learning:
Branching scenarios like this are effective because they immerse learners in authentic problem-solving. Instead of just reading or watching, learners actively engage with the content, reflect on consequences, and apply their knowledge in context. This boosts knowledge retention, fosters critical thinking, and makes the learning experience more relevant and memorable. By encountering feedback in real time, learners can adjust their thinking, correct misconceptions, and build confidence—key steps in cementing long-term learning.
This storyboard template was designed as a foundational tool for planning and developing interactive eLearning modules, specifically for onboarding new employees. It outlines each step of the learner journey—from objectives and key messages to screen layouts, interactions, and assessments—ensuring a clear alignment between learning goals and user experience.
As an instructional designer, using a storyboard like this is essential. It serves as a blueprint that brings together content strategy, visual elements, and learner engagement techniques before production begins. It not only streamlines collaboration with subject matter experts, developers, and stakeholders but also helps anticipate challenges and maintain consistency across projects.
This template has been used to guide the development of onboarding programs that are scalable, visually engaging, and learner-centered—ensuring new employees gain the knowledge and confidence they need from day one.