The challenge
ALX, a leading technology training provider under the African Leadership Group, is committed to equipping young Africans with the technology and professional skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.
In early 2023, ALX Ethiopia began transitioning from a fully virtual model to blended learning, combining online and in-person instruction. While this shift offered new opportunities for peer-to-peer learning and community-building, the team anticipated challenges in motivating in-person attendance and managing dropout rates.
ALX recognised that the success of this transition depended on how well their value proposition and overall experience resonated with trainees, and sought a deeper understanding of learner needs and pain points.
A comprehensive HCD process
Derz took a comprehensive approach to address the challenge. We began by gathering deep insights from trainees through interviews, focus group discussions, and in-person observations. This data informed the creation of detailed journey maps and personas, giving a clearer picture of the diverse needs and experiences of ALX's learners.
We then collaborated closely with the ALX team in a design sprint focused on enhancing learner engagement in both physical and digital spaces, co-creating strategies to strengthen the learning community. The first phase concluded with a playbook for prototype testing.
The project concluded with four learner personas and seven prototypes, each designed to enhance community engagement within ALX. These were presented to ALX's leadership, sparking strategic shifts in their approach to learner engagement.
The success of this phase led to a second phase, in which the ALX team, with ongoing Derz support, tested prototypes in real-world settings and refined their approach based on continuous feedback.