Based on the white paper "The Various AI Tools I Use" by Frank Russell
If creating training videos and content could be addictive, AI tools are the reason. For those of us in the business of building engaging and effective training content, AI offers a streamlined process that’s so smooth it feels like a cheat code. What used to take weeks—brainstorming, scripting, recording, editing—now happens faster, cheaper, and with more creative freedom than ever. Here’s how AI tools like ChatGPT, Synthesia, and HeyGen have made training content production not just easier but fun.
Idea Generation and Scripting Magic
For brainstorming, ChatGPT is like having a collaborative writer always on standby. It can quickly generate ideas, develop full scripts, and even suggest outlines tailored for topics from leadership to cybersecurity. Need a formal tone for compliance training? Or something conversational for onboarding? ChatGPT adjusts in seconds, producing drafts that get right to the point. Plus, it can create quizzes and check-ins to increase engagement.
When projects require complex scenarios, Claude steps in. It’s ideal for tracking longer narratives or multi-module courses and can develop engaging role-play scenarios for HR or technical training. Claude simplifies tough concepts, making them accessible to any audience, whether they’re new hires or experienced professionals. Combined, these tools take the stress out of scripting, adding a layer of customization that makes each video feel tailor-made.
Meanwhile, Grammarly polishes every line. It’s not just about catching errors; Grammarly refines tone, structure, and clarity, ensuring the message is sharp and clear. It’s a go-to for that final layer of professionalism, keeping content reader-ready and audience-appropriate. It even has a plagiarism checker to make sure your final scripts are safe and unique.
Narration and AI Talent That Feels Real
Synthesia and HeyGen have transformed narration. For many simple in-house production projects, gone are the days of booking talent or setting up recording sessions. With Synthesia, lifelike avatars bring scripts to life in over 120 languages—ideal for global training programs. For those times when content needs quick updates, just adjust the script and re-render. No reshoots necessary.
HeyGen takes realism even further with avatars that use lifelike expressions and gestures. Its controls let you adjust pauses, tone, and pronunciation, adding a natural touch to global content. Both tools offer a level of convenience and customizability that makes experimenting with avatars feel more like a creative playground than work.
For natural-sounding voiceovers, Eleven Labs steps in with AI voices that are customizable in tone, style, and even accent. It’s an incredibly handy tool for adding a human touch to multi-language materials, keeping the learning experience consistent and engaging.
Visuals, Effects, and Editing in No Time
Tools like Canva and Envato Elements bring quality visuals to training videos without the heavy lifting. Canva’s intuitive drag-and-drop design is perfect for adding infographics and charts, while Envato’s motion graphics and templates make titles and transitions look pro-grade. With Unsplash on hand for high-quality images, there’s no shortage of visuals to match the message.
Editing is a breeze, too. VN (VlogNow) is perfect for quick edits, while Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro handle more complex projects. Whether it’s a simple trim or a full-scale production, these editing tools cover every need, so nothing feels out of reach.
Combine the Best of Both Worlds!
One quick cautionary note: while these AI Tools can be addictive, high-quality course productions will not and should not go away soon. I suggest using top off-the-shelf (OTS) providers for more generic content that may need things like best-selling authors or higher production values. But in-house productions for User Generated Content (UGC) can capitalize on some great efficiencies using these AI tools!
Conclusion:
Whether you’re building a quick nanolearning session or microlearning course, tools like the ones I use above offer great advantages for producing high-quality, engaging training content in record time. And trust me, once you start using them, it may be hard to quit!
For a complete copy of the source white paper with more details and research references, click here.
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