Operations Training Simulations

Simulation-based training designed to build accuracy and confidence in complex system workflows.

This project focused on creating scalable, system-based training that multiple designers could build and maintain consistently.

Confidentiality Note
Due to confidentiality requirements, specific organization details, program names, and course materials are not shown. Project details focus on design approach, process, and outcomes.

Audience:
Operations call center agents

Format:
Simulation-based eLearning and system practice activities

Tools:
Adobe Captivate, Photoshop, enterprise LMS

Role:
Lead Specialty Designer

The Problem

Agents were expected to perform complex tasks in internal systems requiring both speed and accuracy.

However:

  • Learners had limited access to live or test systems for practice

  • Simulation design varied across designers, creating inconsistency

  • System-based training was time-intensive and difficult to scale

This created a gap between training and real-world performance.

How Simulations Were Built

To adapt to system and platform constraints, simulations were developed using PowerPoint as an alternative to traditional tools.

This approach allowed for:

  • Faster development using familiar tools

  • Easier updates as systems evolved

  • Scalable contribution across multiple designers

The Solution

I led simulation design and established a scalable system for building and delivering system-based training across the project.

I developed a scalable simulation approach by:

  • Standardizing how system interactions were designed and built

  • Creating reusable templates and assets

  • Supporting and mentoring designers across the team

I also designed scenario-based simulations to reflect real-world job tasks and decision-making.

Simulation Design System

Design approach

This project uses simulation-based learning to build procedural fluency in a safe, realistic environment.

Structured Simulation Design
Created templates, storyboards, and structured workflows for system practice activities, allowing multiple designers to build simulations efficiently and consistently.

System-Based Training Without System Access
Developed high-quality, redacted screen captures and system-based visuals to replicate real workflows in a controlled training environment.

Reusable Asset Library
Produced 200+ screen assets and 60+ custom graphics to support consistent, reusable simulations.

Simulation Design Under Constraints
When simulation tools and system access were limited, I developed an alternative approach using PowerPoint to create interactive system practice activities.

This approach allowed the team to:

  • Build simulations using familiar tools

  • Create easily maintainable and updateable content

  • Deliver consistent system-based practice despite changing systems

To support this, I created detailed job aids and templates that standardized how simulations were built across the team.

Scenario-Based Simulations
Designed and developed scenario based Captivate simulations with:

  • Personalized elements (learner name variables)

  • Gated progression to ensure completion

  • Realistic decision-making interactions

Team Enablement and Scalable Development
As the sole Specialty resource, I enabled other designers to build high-quality simulations by providing:

  • Step-by-step job aids and templates

  • Structured storyboarding approaches

  • 1:1 coaching and feedback

This allowed multiple designers to contribute to simulation development efficiently, even without prior experience in simulation tools.


Quality and Consistency

Conducted functionality reviews to ensure accuracy and zero defects before pilot.

Simulation Features

Key features that support system-based skill development:

System Practice Simulations
Learners complete realistic system-based tasks using guided simulations that mirror real workflows.

Scenario-Based Conversations
Simulations include decision-making interactions that reflect real customer scenarios in fraud operations.

Reusable Simulation System Design
Templates, assets, and job aids support consistent simulation development across the team.

Personalized Learning Experience
Learner name variables and structured progression increase engagement and immersion.

Gated Progression
Learners must complete key activities before advancing, reinforcing accountability and skill development.

My Role

Lead Specialty designer and simulation consultant.

  • Led simulation design strategy and standards

  • Built templates, assets, and reusable components

  • Mentored and supported designers across the project

  • Created scenario-based simulations and system activities

  • Ensured quality through review and testing processes

Outcome

  • Enabled scalable development of system-based simulations across multiple designers

  • Reduced development time through reusable templates, workflows, and alternative development approaches

  • Improved consistency and quality across simulation-based training materials

  • Eliminated defects prior to pilot through structured review and testing

  • Increased realism of training despite lack of system access

  • Supported faster turnaround of simulation deliverables through team enablement and shared resources

  • Enabled simulation development using accessible tools, allowing the team to build and update training despite system and platform limitations

Your ability to prepare high-quality assets and transfer knowledge allowed us to turn work around faster and produce better content.
— Project Partner

Reflection

  • This project reinforced the importance of designing scalable systems, not just individual learning experiences.

  • Creating reusable assets, templates, and guidance improved both efficiency and consistency across a distributed design team.

  • It also highlighted how realistic simulations can effectively prepare learners for system-based work, even without direct access to live environments.

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