Your storyboard is the first step in transforming your content into a fully built e‑learning course. At this stage, you are reviewing the wording, structure and imagery to ensure everything is clear, accurate and ready for build. This process helps avoid unnecessary rework later and gives you confidence that the course reflects your requirements.
This guide explains what a storyboard is, why we use Word, and how to complete your review effectively.
What is a storyboard?
A storyboard is a Word document created by one of our Instructional Designers. It takes your raw content and develops it into the text, layout and interactions that will appear in the final course. It provides:
The adapted course wording based on your supplied content
Recommended page layouts that break information into digestible chunks
Notes on images, page types and interactions such as multiple‑choice questions or drag‑and‑drop activities
A blueprint from which our Consultants build the final course
Before the build begins, reviewing the storyboard gives you the opportunity to request changes quickly and easily.
Why do we use MS Word?
Although some organisations use PowerPoint or wireframing tools for storyboards, we use Word so that you can focus on the wording and provide clear, trackable feedback. Tracked Changes allows you to edit sentences directly and add comments, ensuring accurate wording before development begins. This makes the overall process smoother and faster.
If parts don't make sense
The storyboard may contain technical notes for the course builder that you are not expected to interpret. You do not need to imagine the finished course at this point. Instead, focus on the wording and flow. If you would like someone from Skillcast to guide you through the storyboard, just let us know - we are always happy to help.
How to complete your review
Start at the beginning and work through the storyboard in order. This will reflect the learner’s experience, including questions and interactions along the way.
Do’s and Don’ts when reviewing your storyboard
Do | Don’t |
- Focus on the wording. Check tone, accuracy, completeness and edit directly until you are happy. | - Worry about what the built course will look like. You’ll have three rounds of built‑course reviews for this. |
- Think about the flow. If content needs to move, merge or switch order, leave a comment and we’ll make the changes. | - Review different versions. All reviewers should use the same document so there is one clear set of feedback. |
- Look at the images. Confirm whether they complement the text and request changes via comments. | - Hold back questions. If anything is unclear, ask — the storyboard stage is one of the trickiest parts for clients. |
- Take your time. Getting wording and flow right now saves significant time later in the project. |
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Tips for a smooth review
Keep comments specific so our team can action them quickly.
Use Tracked Changes for edits to maintain a clear history.
If multiple reviewers are involved, align internally before submitting feedback to avoid duplication.
Conclusion
Reviewing your storyboard ensures your course wording and structure are exactly how you want them before development begins. If you need support at any point, contact your Customer Success Manager by selecting Send us a message via the help icon on your portal, or by emailing [email protected].