Our Approach

  • Story First Design Approach

    We harnessing the power of storytelling throughout the design process to create learning experiences and products grounded in real-world examples. Click the right arrows to see how stories shape our process—from analyzing learning needs to demonstrating impact.

  • Stories to Enhance

    Analysis

    Story listening is a vital part of our analysis phase at Story First Design. We engage key stakeholders, subject matter experts, and learners to uncover authentic experiences, challenges, and insights that shape the learning context. These stories reveal themes, gaps, and opportunities that inform meaningful learning objectives. By grounding our strategy in real-world experiences, we design solutions that resonate, connect, and drive meaningful change.

  • Ensure your course is a

    Truly Engaging Experience

    "Engaging" is often used as a buzzword in learning design, but what does it truly mean? We believe it’s about drawing learners in—both cognitively and emotionally—in ways that connect to their past experiences while inspiring them to step boldly into new possibilities. Effective engagement invites learners to think deeply, reflect meaningfully, and embrace challenges that expand their understanding and skills. Stories create this kind of engagement by grounding learning in human experience, inviting learners to make meaning rather than simply move to the next click.

  • Supporting people as they

    Learn in the flow of work

    When learners complete your formal learning experience, the real journey begins. At Story First Design, we design for the full story of learning—how people apply new ideas in real situations, reflect on what happens next, and continue growing over time. We create just-in-time and peer-to-peer learning touchpoints that extend learning beyond an eLearning course or classroom, complementing self-directed study as well as synchronous virtual and in-person sessions. This approach provides learners with the structure and support they need to apply what they’ve learned in their lives, make meaning of their experiences, and share insights that move the story forward.

  • Become a meaningful part of your learner's

    Professional Development Story

    We create remarkable learning experiences—the kind people talk about. Our goal is to become a meaningful part of the story learners tell about their day, their year, and their growth. We design pivotal moments that support personal development and inspire learners to help others succeed.

Put your story front and center

Why put your story first?

Stories are the backbone of meaningful learning experiences, yet in most training, they are often reduced to brief narratives or minor elements within a larger lesson. Story First Design flips this approach by making the story the driving force of the entire learning experience.

A compelling story captivates learners, creates emotional connections, and provides context that makes information more memorable and actionable. Instead of weaving a small narrative into an otherwise traditional course, Story First Design ensures that every interaction, challenge, and decision is rooted in a rich, immersive story.

This approach deepens engagement, enhances retention, and transforms learning into an experience that feels relevant and impactful. When learners see themselves in the story, they are more invested in the journey—and more likely to apply what they’ve learned in real-world situations.

Story First Design founder, Mike Myers, explores how stories can unlock transformative learning in his blog post, 'The Power of Stories in Learning Experience Design.'

Read Blog