Communications Training Video
Project Overview
At CDS Defence & Security, we were tasked with creating a short communications training video within a tight 30-hour timeframe. The requirements were clear: the video must be under two minutes, delivered in a “talking head” format, and focus on how to respond effectively in a communications crisis. It needed to be sharp, engaging, and end with a clear call to action.
Details
Type: Instructional Video
Client: CDS Defence & Security
Date: February 2025
Tools
Adobe Premier Pro
Adobe After Effects
Adobe Illustrator
Wondercraft
Skills
Creative Direction & Production
Storyboarding & Scripting
Video Editing / Animating / Sound FX
Instructional Design
The Brief
The video was to serve as an introduction to an in-person learning exercise for small groups of public sector communicators. Set in a fictional government press office, the scenario followed the fallout from a minister’s off-the-cuff comments that contradicted public policy. The challenge for learners: draft a holding line for the press under pressure. The video needed to blend multimedia overlays, realistic storytelling, and instructional messaging to bring the scenario to life.
Instructional Design & Analysis
Working alongside the instructional designer, I helped shape both the structure and emotional tone of the learning experience. Together, we aligned on the key learning objectives, ensuring they were clearly embedded in the narrative arc. While the instructional designer brought deep pedagogical insight, I also contributed to rationalising the objectives, considering not just what we needed the learner to understand, but how and why they would absorb it best in a high-pressure situation.
I also brought a human-cantered lens to the brainstorm session. Thinking about the emotional state of someone handling a fast-moving media crisis, and how we could build that tension into the story. This helped shape a scenario that felt both relatable and realistic, while still staying focused on the key outcomes and an authentic narrative.
Storytelling & Design
Due to time constraints, we couldn't arrange a full studio shoot, instead we leaned into creative problem-solving to make the scenario feel as real and immersive as possible. I suggested we frame the advice from the comms director as a simulated online call, something that felt timely, authentic, and aligned with how teams often communicate in these situations.
We worked to shape a clear, focused script that supported the key learning points whilst also creating space for tension. Visual consistency was key, and so was selecting a main character who felt authentic and relatable to support the story. I carefully selected stock footage and found a main character that carried the emotional tone needed.
Create & Develop
I led the production phase by sourcing visual assets and overseeing the overall look and feel of the piece. I also delegated elements of the asset creation to a junior developer I was mentoring, whilst offering support and encouraging their creative input.
To bring the scenario to life, we used realistic AI voiceovers to represent key characters, allowing us to maintain a consistent tone and emotional depth despite the time constraints. I also incorporated carefully chosen sound effects to enhance realism and support the tension of the unfolding crisis.
I handled the video editing and motion design using Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro, ensuring everything came together into a cohesive and engaging final product.
Final Product
Let’s Create and Collaborate
I’m currently freelancing and open to new collaborations, whether you need a promotional video, a multimedia-rich training solution, or a fresh take on digital learning design.
To learn more and view examples of my portfolio work, please get in touch!
Let’s make learning that has an impact with learners and products that clients are proud to deliver.