Storytelling Design
In a world of slideshows and static modules, storytelling offers something deeper: connection, emotion, and context. Whether used in education, training, or professional development, narrative design transforms abstract content into experiences that resonate and stick.
This page showcases how I use storytelling not just as a creative flourish, but as a strategic design tool. Through character-driven narratives, real-world reflection, and multimodal delivery, I build learning moments that spark curiosity, promote self-awareness, and drive meaningful engagement.
From transforming a standard project management assignment into a narrative journey to developing story-based toolkits that support reflection and growth, I believe storytelling has the power to bring learning to life, one story at a time.
Like a light bulb flickering on in a dark room, each story is designed to spark understanding, illuminate connections, and inspire that unmistakable aha moment.
Before and After Work Sample
One of my strengths as an instructional designer is transforming “typical” assignments into experiences that spark engagement, deepen reflection, and drive retention.
This work sample demonstrates how a standard discussion prompt can be reimagined into an interactive, story-driven activity that encourages more meaningful participation.
Before & After: Transforming a Project Management Assignment
Not all assignments inspire curiosity. Many are designed to check a box, functional, but forgettable. The “before” example here is a typical project management discussion prompt: clear and practical, yet lacking the spark that draws learners in.
By reimagining the same assignment through the lens of storytelling, I transformed it into a narrative experience. In the “after” version, learners follow a fictional character, Emma, as she navigates a challenging project. This shift creates a personal connection, encourages empathy, and opens space for meaningful reflection.
The result? What began as a static prompt becomes a multi-layered experience, complete with a Gemini Storybook narrative, reflection tools, and optional multimedia elements.
Just like flipping a switch, storytelling turns the light on, illuminating concepts, revealing deeper insights, and helping learners see the subject matter in a whole new way.
Before for the Spark: A Typical Assignment
After the Spark: Narrative-Driven Assignment
This transformation shows how rethinking format and presentation can turn a standard assignment into a memorable, story-driven experience. Explore the Storybooks below to see more examples of how storytelling can elevate training and education.
Lighting the Frame:
A Gemini Storybook Collection
This collection was created to showcase the versatility of Gemini Storybooks, demonstrating their adaptability across various content areas and their suitability for any course assignment or training.
Each Storybook is a unique example, demonstrating how narrative elements can be applied in different contexts to spark engagement, prompt reflection, and make material more memorable. The goal isn’t to teach storytelling, but to inspire instructors and trainers to see how Storybooks can light the way for their own content.
Gina’s Storybook Collection
-
![Remote Work – The Customer’s Silence]()
Remote Work – The Customer’s Silence
Topic: Call Documentation & CRM Training
A remote customer service representative mishandles a repeat customer dispute due to incomplete call documentation. The scenario emphasizes consistent CRM use, accurate recordkeeping, and applying onboarding lessons to protect customer trust and performance metrics.
Learning Objective: Demonstrate accurate and consistent customer recordkeeping in a CRM system to resolve repeat issues and maintain service quality.
-
![Healthcare – A Costly Click]()
Healthcare – A Costly Click
Topic: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Compliance
A medical records employee makes a well-intentioned but costly error by sending Protected Health Information (PHI) through an unapproved email channel. This story reinforces secure data handling, downtime protocols, and the critical role of compliance training.
Learning Objective: Apply proper HIPAA protocols for transmitting PHI and select secure communication methods during downtime scenarios.
-
![Customer Service Sales: The Overlooked Upsell]()
Customer Service Sales: The Overlooked Upsell
Topic: Sales Training & Opportunity Listening
A customer service rep misses an upsell opportunity by focusing solely on transaction speed. This case underscores active listening, applying training techniques in real-time, and balancing efficiency with relationship-building to capture sales potential.
Learning Objective: Use active listening and trained sales techniques to identify and act on customer needs, balancing efficiency with relationship-building.
-
![Banking – Balancing the Books]()
Banking – Balancing the Books
Topic: Compliance & Training Readiness
A bank employee scrambles to prepare for a surprise audit after skipping a crucial training on a new account verification process. This case study highlights the importance of timely completion of training, resource familiarity, and audit preparedness.
Learning Objective:
Identify the impact of incomplete training on audit readiness and apply proactive strategies to ensure compliance with verification procedures.
-
![Project Management – Anatomy of a Setback]()
Project Management – Anatomy of a Setback
Topic: Project Debrief & Lessons Learned
Emma leads a high-profile logistics project that unravels due to unclear communication, rushed decision-making, and overlooked risk planning. Through her reflections, learners explore how setbacks can become opportunities for growth when analyzed with the right tools.
Learning Objective: Evaluate the root causes of project setbacks and apply structured debriefing techniques to improve future project outcomes.
-
![Personal Brand – The Spark is Me]()
Personal Brand – The Spark is Me
This reflective narrative shares my own professional path, blending over 15 years of teaching experience with more than four years in instructional design. It models how personal storytelling can be used in professional settings to inspire, connect, and build trust.
Learning Objective: Craft a professional narrative that communicates expertise, builds rapport, and strengthens personal or organizational branding.
