The Explainer Pyramid: a framework for effective training
How to structure content that both informs and engages - from overview to detail.
Why frameworks matter
Most training does not fail because it has the wrong information. It fails because the information is presented in the wrong order, at the wrong level, for the wrong audience. The Explainer Pyramid is our framework for structuring content so it hits the right mark.
Three levels
The pyramid has three levels:
1. Overview (top) - What is it about? Why does it matter? This level should be short, visual, and motivating. Think 60-second video.
2. Understanding (middle) - How does it work? What steps are involved? Here we go deeper with interactive elements, quizzes, and examples. Think 5-10 minute course.
3. Detail (base) - Specific procedures, rules, and reference material. Longer format, accessible on demand. Think handbook or deep-dive module.
How to apply the framework
Always start from the top. If someone does not understand why something is important, they will not engage with how it works. That is why we always produce a short overview video before building a full course.
Think about your audience. A new employee needs all three levels. An experienced specialist might just need an updated detail module.
The Explainer Pyramid in practice
We use this framework in every project we do. When Atlas Copco rolled out their safety training globally, we started with short overview videos explaining why the new policy mattered. Then we built comprehensive courses for those who needed detailed knowledge.
The result was higher completion rates and better scores on knowledge tests.
Start small
You do not need to build all three levels from the start. Begin with the overview. If engagement is high enough, build on to the understanding level. The Explainer Pyramid is a flexible framework, not a rigid process.