7 Steps to Successfully Prepare for Program Launch
(Part 2 of 4)
In part-one (discover, define, design) of this four-part series, you learned how to get initial buy-in, understand client needs, and design the program. Now it’s time to finalize the educational components, train personnel, and prepare promotional resources.
During the preparation phase, you finalize the actual training, customize promotional materials, train key stakeholders, and obtain necessary approvals. You will receive materials and learn from individuals who have successfully supported the launch of thousands of events and promotions.
Educational Materials
Aligning the educational materials and mix with the needs of your stakeholders and learners forms the cornerstone of any financial education initiative. In this phase, you will finalize your educational materials to ensure it meets the needs of your audience and overall program goals. Download the learner educational outcomes guide for guidance.
Delivery Methods
Now that you educational materials with learning objectives it is time to decide upon the way you will deliver the training. Consider these common methods: live presentations (in-person or webinars), technology-based learning (online, mobile), interactive learning (gamification), and one-on-one financial counseling.
Personnel Training
To ensure that your team members are fully prepared for the financial education initiative, training is essential. During this step all client-facing volunteers, personnel, and assistants receive training to better communicate the program and/or lead the educational effort. Learn more about educator training – click here.
Personnel Hiring or Outsourcing
Expanding your team or outsourcing various functions may be needed if you need additional support. Clear hiring and performance expectation criteria should be established for all team members, financial literacy speakers, and key stakeholders. Review the Framework for Teaching Personal Finance for hiring guidelines.
Communication, Marketing & Handouts
Successful programs include professional marketing resources and correspondence that promote the initiative, increase participation rates, and raise awareness.
Launch Preparation
Formal program announcements, financial wellness launch events, and other methods of letting your audience know about your financial education program raise awareness and encourage participation. Launch options vary in size and scope, but all do possess some common core design elements and goals. Consider these common ways to launch a program: launch event, press announcement, social media posts, email blasts and partner activation.
Approval
This is also the stage where you will likely need to get final sign-off from the compliance department or higher management. To make this process run smoothly, we suggest that you make early contact with those who must approve the program and understand their submission protocol. Working within their structure will help ensure timely processing of your program.