How Training Videos Simplify Learning and Improve Retention

How Training Videos Simplify Learning and Improve Retention

Training employees effectively is one of the biggest challenges businesses can face, especially in industries like manufacturing, food service, and construction, where hands-on tasks and safety are critical. The traditional approach of in-person training and printed manuals is no longer sufficient to meet the needs of a modern workforce with varying learning styles. Training videos have emerged as a game-changing solution, simplifying complex processes, improving retention, and saving on training time and costs. Plus the immeasurable ROI of a more educated team.

Companies using video in employee training see a 33% improvement in employee engagement and satisfaction. (Source: Wyzowl)

In this blog, we’ll explore how training videos address these challenges and why they’re a must-have for any modern business. We've assembled a collection of stats to share with you as well. 

The Challenge in Teaching: Diverse Learning Styles and Outdated Training Methods

One of the greatest hurdles in training is accommodating different learning styles. Employees process information in unique ways:

• Visual learners thrive on videos, diagrams, and demonstrations.
• Auditory learners absorb knowledge through spoken explanations and video clips.
• Reading and writing learners benefit from on-screen text and supplemental manuals.
• Kinesthetic learners need hands-on practice, which videos can guide step by step.
• Interpersonal learners respond to group coaching and direct on-camera coaching.

Methods like printed manuals and even Zoom training sessions, fail to engage all these styles. Additionally, many companies lack the tools to provide timely and effective refreshers for tasks performed infrequently, like quarterly maintenance or cross-training for job coverage.

In today’s world, virtual learning has become the norm, not using videos can make a company seem outdated, especially to younger employees accustomed to video-based education at grade school and through University.

A Solution: Training Videos that Meet Every Learning Style

Video-based training reduces training time by up to 60% compared to traditional in-person methods. (Source: Training Magazine)  

Employees forget up to 65% of material learned in traditional training sessions within a week, but video-based training can improve retention rates by 80% when combined with hands-on practice. (Source: Shift Learning)

Training videos offer a flexible and effective way to engage employees across all learning styles. They combine visual and auditory elements, on-screen text, and clear demonstrations that are easy to follow. When paired with hands-on practice immediately after viewing, they create a powerful learning experience.

I’ll share a favorite client story of ours, Goldfish Swim School. They’re detailed training manuals combines cartoon-drawn training manuals with a long-running series of training videos we’ve created. This dual approach not only simplifies learning but also ensures consistency across locations and franchise owners. Their employees benefit from engaging, multimedia content that resonates with different learning preferences.

Real-World Success: A Tier 1 Auto Manufacturer’s Story

Employees are 75% more likely to remember information presented in a video compared to text-based materials. (Source: Forrester Research)

One of our international Tier 1 auto manufacturer clients faced a challenge with over 100 processes that needed visual documentation. We helped them create a series of 1-2 minute videos for each process, which employees viewed on terminals at their many productions work stations. Moving from a printed workbook to video-based education,
they had remarkable results:

• Increased Productivity: Employees learned their roles quickly and effectively, helping the company consistently meet weekly goals for the first time in years.
• Improved Safety: Injuries dropped significantly, and when incidents occurred, records of watching the videos allowed for rapid assessments and resolutions.
• Cost Savings: The company used the videos to demonstrate reduced injuries to their insurance provider, leading to lower workers' compensation premiums. The savings more than covered the cost of the video series alone.

The Barriers of Entry: Keeping Training Videos Up-to-Date

A common concern is that training videos may become outdated as processes change. However, updates are often more affordable than expected. At M-1 Studios, we retain all edits, allowing for quick adjustments without the need for extensive reshoots. For example, we can budget for annual updates upfront, saving costs in the long run.

In fact, many businesses discover that their printed materials are missing critical details only after transitioning to video. This makes the investment in training videos even more valuable.

Businesses that use video for training report a 30% decrease in training costs due to reduced time spent, fewer training materials, and improved employee performance. (Source: LinkedIn Learning)

The Bottom Line: Training Videos Have Become Essential

Training videos aren’t just a modern tool—they’re a strategic investment that simplifies learning, improves retention, and drives results. They:

• Accommodate diverse learning styles.
• Provide on-demand access for hybrid and remote teams.
• Reduce training time by up to 60%.
• Increase safety and productivity.
• Deliver measurable ROI through cost savings and improved performance.

Thinking about how to Elevate Your Training Strategy?

If you’re ready to simplify your training processes and improve outcomes, we’re here to help. Our team of training video experts at M-1 Studios truly enjoy creating high-quality training videos tailored to your industry’s unique needs. Let’s work together to make your training easier, faster, and more effective.