Shinola, the Detroit based luxury good manufacturer, has chosen to partner with Area9 Learning to deliver adaptive e-learning for their store associates. Shinola currently has 14 stores in the US, a number that is expected to grow to 21 by the end of the year.

Unlike traditional linear methods of e-learning which suffer from a “one size fits none” approach and lack accurate measures of proficiency, Area9 Learning’s philosophy is different.

“As we continue to grow, we want our employees to fully understand our commitment to world-class manufacturing jobs and products that are built to last. The more ways we can effectively tell our story, the better the experience our customer has with our brand.” explains Jacques Panis, President at Shinola.

The solution—that started to initial roll out during the Summer of 2016—is based on the adaptive learning principles that Area9 Learning has developed over many years of research into the science of how people learn. Retail is one of the focus areas for Area9 Learning, as the Chairman, Dr. Ulrik Juul Christensen states:

“We are excited about the opportunity to work with Shinola on this ambitious training program as we support their vision of creating jobs in America. Manufacturing and retail are areas where training is a critical component for success.”

“It’s all about brains.” Dr. Christensen continues. “It’s about how we can help people to obtain the knowledge they need to be successful at their job—and to provide opportunities for people to learn more while leveraging their existing knowledge base, and then building on top of that.’