From message to materials: Cyrano pioneers Self-Learning Modules for nonprofits

From Cyrano News October 2005

To help non-profits tell the right stories to the right audiences, Cyrano is developing a series of computer-based self-learning modules. These SLMs, called SolutionBuilders, are designed for nonexperts. They guide the user through the ABCs of communications planning and media coverage, right down to step-by-step processes for creating specific tools such as websites and brochures.

Cursor-activated prompts guide the user through a path of choices leading to menus of practical “how-to” modules without ever losing sight of the core message.

The point of SolutionBuilders is to make the branding and strategic concepts behind the tools invisible. These are not mini-marketing courses. Instead, they simply guide the user to understand and define the bigger picture before moving to specific tools and techniques.

Cyrano SolutionBuilders are designed to:

• Help the user define communications objectives.
• Guide the user to appropriate communications tools.
• Provide a template for sharing and discussing messages and tools within the organization.