Hemsley Fraser launches breakthrough in learning design

LONDON - Aug. 19, 2014 - PRLog -- As part of an on-going refurbishment of its London centre, learning specialist Hemsley Fraser has opened a new ‘learning design deck’, where clients can work alongside subject matter experts to create innovative and exciting learning programmes quickly and effectively.

Called the Client Deck, the purpose-built environment has been developed to make interacting in creative design meetings a more engaging experience. The facility includes a state-of-the-art, environmentally-friendly and ergonomically-efficient ‘creativity zone’, which has been decorated and equipped to be energising and inspiring. There is also a separate reflection zone and two London Underground-themed ‘quiet carriages’ for breakout meetings. Creative use of space, which is based on an ‘inside/outside’ feel (complete with hidden entrance!), spurs creativity from the moment you enter.

“Our new Client Deck allows the client to fully immerse themselves in the design process,” said Todd Turner, Chief Executive Officer of Hemsley Fraser. “I’ve always been a firm believer that a great working environment brings out the best in people. We wanted to create a ‘shop window’ where clients could experience all that we have to offer. We started with a blank sheet of paper and we have created something that’s very different to experience. Whether you want to create a high-end customised solution or simply breathe new life into an existing learning programme, this is the place to come. Quite simply, it has game-changed the ‘art of the possible’ in learning design.”

Using a large, touch-enabled, interactive display screen, Hemsley Fraser’s subject matter experts facilitate the design process, whilst accessing a core of high quality content, knowledge assets, digital files and applications. They can devise complete programmes by discussing options, previewing and adding materials, scrolling through sample architectures, and zooming in on specific aspects that require more detailed design. The widescreen system improves both the visibility and impact of notes and design visuals, bringing absolute clarity and shared understanding of client expectations. A digital file of the resulting collaboration can be saved and shared, right from the interactive display.

“Technology has transformed the creative design process,” said Todd Turner, “Our new visual and interactive approach enables us to create, play, share and approve designs with clients in the moment. We are already seeing that this approach greatly speeds up the traditional back-and-forth design process, with design consensus often reached in as little as one meeting. Further, as the full range of our learning assets are showcased, the client can pick from a range of options that meet their need and also their budget.”

The Client Deck also includes fun breakout areas, samples of learning aids and materials, and an oversized whiteboard that leverages learning architecture magnets to facilitate discussions on programme design.

The announcement of its new Client Deck comes after Hemsley Fraser has created its ‘next generation’ learning environment.

Todd Turner explained: “We looked at every component part of a training room - the furniture, lighting, equipment, layout and décor - and asked: is there a better way of doing this? This process led us to create intuitive environments in which learning, knowledge and experimentation can blend together and where learners can free their imagination. Our facilities are a far cry from the old days of ‘chalk and talk’ training.”

Hemsley Fraser’s next generation learning environments feature upgraded high definition AV with multiple points of display; ‘personalised desks’ that are moveable and collapsible, allowing the room to be quickly and easily reconfigured to suit any learning or networking requirement; white board walls; and ‘fun zones’ that inspire creativity. Innovative software is used to convey information visually and iPads are provided to allow fully interactive, paperless or ‘paper-light’ courses.

For further information, please call Hemsley Fraser on +44 (0) 845 071 2801. Video clips of the new Client Deck and next generation learning environments are available at www.hemsleyfraser.co.uk

Background notes: Hemsley Fraser provides in-company and customised learning programmes, consulting services, open training courses and managed learning services.