AN INNOVATIVE SCIENTIFIC ENGAGEMENT INITIATIVE FOR TRAINING MSLS
CLIENT: MAJOR PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANY
THE SITUATION
The client expected to receive a new indication for an established product and needed to roll out consistent, comprehensive training globally. They had previously developed learning materials that lacked learner engagement due to their conventional nature. Prior learning materials were developed on an ad hoc basis, so did not offer a cohesive learner experience.
THE NEED
The client needed to engage and enthuse MSLs to complete the existing training and become fully prepared to engage with HCPs immediately following data publication. In addition, participants, due to the COVID-19 situation, were beginning to tire of standard virtual learning, so a creative approach was required.
OUR APPROACH
We developed a sports-themed gaming initiative to maximise participation in planned learning pieces. Within this, we implemented elements of gamification and micro-learning to motivate learners.
We divided learning tasks into points-based events whereby learners could earn points for the teams they had been assigned, dependent upon their participation and performance in these tasks
We then developed events to appeal to the competitive nature of some learners, but also to encourage teamwork and solidify working relationships to achieve a shared goal
We kept track and shared points and performance information with learners periodically via a leaderboard to support their learning journey and help them track their progress
We also supported promotion of the event via multiple social media channels, encouraging learners to sign up and compete
THE OUTCOMES
We delivered a competitive and engaging learning initiative for a global audience. The warm-up event encouraged learners to post on a thread about topics they’d like to cover in training. That thread received 44 responses, shaping the structure of subsequent events.
The second event comprised a live training event, slide deck and a clinical data investigation tool; 80% of participants earned points during this event
The third event was a short 10-minute quiz. All participants who took part achieved full marks.
The final event of this initiative included various training pieces. 77.5% of participants earned points during this final event, showing sustained engagement throughout the initiative.
The project was selected for the final shortlist of an international award in 2021. Judges remarked on the ‘creative approach’ which ‘fostered collaboration and built a knowledge base for new clinical data’.
