THE IMPORTANCE OF VIDEO IN PHARMA LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Have you ever sat through a training course and forgotten most of it a week later?

Most of us have.

One reason is that people tend to remember information more effectively when they both see and hear it. That's why video has become such an important part of modern Learning and Development solutions.

For pharmaceutical organisations, video can help explain complex topics, engage busy learners, and deliver consistent messages across global teams.

What Do We Mean by Video Learning?

Video learning covers a wide range of formats, including:

• Explainer videos

• Expert interviews

• Scenario-based learning

• Demonstrations

• Animated videos

• Leadership messages

  
  

The goal isn't simply to replace text with moving pictures. Effective video helps learners understand concepts more quickly and makes information easier to remember.

The Importance of Video in Learning and Development

Where Video Works Best

Video is particularly effective when organisations need to:

• Explain complex concepts

• Demonstrate processes

• Share real-world examples

• Build emotional engagement

• Communicate organisational change

  
  

For pharmaceutical organisations, this might include explaining manufacturing procedures, introducing new systems, communicating compliance expectations, or helping employees understand the patient impact of their work.

Why Video Matters

Research from Forrester famously suggested that one minute of video can communicate the equivalent of a large amount of written content. While the exact figure is often debated, the principle remains true: video can help people understand information quickly.

Video also combines visuals, narration, and storytelling, making it easier for learners to connect with content.

This is particularly important in pharmaceutical learning, where topics can often be highly technical.

A Practical Example

Johnson & Johnson has used video extensively within its internal learning programmes, particularly when communicating organisational change and leadership messages across global teams.

Rather than relying solely on written communications, leaders used video to provide context, explain decisions, and create stronger engagement with employees.

This approach helped create greater consistency while making messages feel more personal.

What Makes Learning Video Effective?

The best learning videos tend to be:

·       Short. Most learners prefer concise content that gets to the point.

·       Focused. Each video should have a clear learning objective.

·       Relevant. Real examples help learners connect content to their roles.

·       Professionally designed. Good scripting and Instructional Design Services make a significant difference to engagement and retention.

Many organisations make the mistake of simply recording presentations. Effective learning video is designed specifically for learning.

Video as Part of a Blended Learning Strategy

Video works best when combined with other corporate training solutions.

For example, a learner might watch a short animated video before attending an instructor-led training session or completing Interactive eLearning activities.

This helps create a more engaging and effective learning journey.

Conclusion

Video is no longer a nice addition to learning. For many organisations, it has become a core component of employee learning and development.

When designed well, video can simplify complex information, improve engagement, and support stronger learning outcomes.

For pharmaceutical Learning and Development leaders, it remains one of the most versatile tools available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is video important in Learning and Development?

Video helps communicate information clearly, improve engagement, and support knowledge retention through a combination of visual and audio learning.

What learning objectives are best suited to video?

Video works particularly well for demonstrations, process training, storytelling, change communications, and introducing new concepts.

Is video more effective than eLearning?

Video and eLearning solve different problems. Video is often used as part of interactive eLearning and blended learning programmes rather than as a replacement.

What types of video work best in pharma learning?

Animated explainers, expert interviews, demonstrations, patient stories, and leadership communications are all commonly used in pharmaceutical learning programmes.

How long should learning videos be?

In most cases, shorter videos perform better. Many organisations aim for videos between two and six minutes, depending on the complexity of the topic.