What to expect from this session:
1. Framing the Experience
The LMS is often the first and last touchpoint in an employee’s learning journey.
Move from systems thinking to experience thinking: not “what can users click” but “how does it feel to learn here?”.
The goal: reduce friction, increase connection, and support staff to succeed.
2. The First Impression: Logging In
The login page sets the tone — make it simple, welcoming, and aligned with organisational identity.
Use language that connects (“Welcome back” vs. “Log in”).
Avoid unnecessary barriers — fewer steps, fewer distractions.
Consider accessibility and mobile responsiveness.
3. Orientation and Onboarding
Use clear dashboards and guided tours to help new users navigate confidently.
Surface essential learning first — mandatory, role-specific, or onboarding modules.
Incorporate microlearning for “just-in-time” understanding of key tasks or tools.
Embed supportive tone and cultural connection (e.g., use of Te Reo Māori greetings, organisational values).
4. Finding and Accessing Learning
Improve course discoverability through metadata, categories, and curated learning pathways.
Use clear, user-friendly naming conventions — avoid jargon.
Showcase learning through engaging visuals, featured links, or recommendations.
Balance mandatory and self-directed learning to promote autonomy.
5. Language and Engagement
The words used throughout the LMS shape perception and motivation.
Write for clarity, warmth, and purpose — instructional tone doesn’t have to be cold.
Align tone of voice across dashboards, course descriptions, and notifications.
Competency Framework: Learning and Development Practice; E-learning
Session Theme and Target Audience: L&D change makers
Speaker: Katherine Rayn
Katherine has over 20 years’ experience in Learning and Development, with expertise spanning instructional design, digital learning strategy, and the implementation of learning management systems. She has partnered with organisations across sectors to create learning environments that improve staff capability and performance.
Having worked with Totara Learn since its first release, Katherine is recognised as a leading expert in configuring LMS solutions to drive engagement and measurable outcomes. In her current role, she focuses on using Totara to design learning ecosystems that integrate microlearning, performance support, and data-driven insights to create meaningful and sustained learning experiences.
Event Access: The link to access this event can be found in the Additional Information section of the Registration Confirmation and Reminder emails. If you do not receive these emails, please check your spam or junk folders. You will be able to log in from 6:45pm, ready for the webinar to begin at 7pm.
Host: Lower North Island
Event eligibility: This event is open to NZATD members, affiliates and non-members.
Registering for this event:
- Prices exclude GST.
- Members can register for this event by logging in using their member login details.
- Affiliates: (HRNZ, AITD, CDANZ, FLANZ, ICF, NZOQ, PSANZ, TechCommNZ) can attend at member rates. When registering, follow the non-member registration process and use the 'Online Affiliate' promo code to access the member rate. Contact your affiliate administrator for this code.
Cancellations and Attendance:
- Please give 48 hours notice of cancellation.
- Once registered, you will be expected to pay regardless of attendance.
- Substitutions permitted if transferred to someone holding the same
- ticket type e.g. member. Non-members are not permitted to attend in place of a member.
