AI avatars have the potential to revolutionize learning and development by creating immersive, personalized, and efficient learning experiences. They transform traditional training methods, reduce production time and costs, and offer multilingual capabilities.

So, how can AI avatars reshape your organization’s learning and development landscape?

In this article, with insights from Kevin Alster, Head of Synthesia Academy, we explore the concept of AI avatars, their practical applications, and their impact on the future of learning and development.

Listen to our latest episode on the Digital Adoption Show: Are AI Avatars taking over L&D with Kevin Alster

What Are AI Avatars?

AI avatars are human models created from real footage of actors and animated using AI. These avatars interpret written words and generate realistic AI voices and expressions based on the context and tone of the script. This technology has revolutionized how we create talking head videos and characters for learning experiences.

“AI avatars are human models created from real footage of actors and animated using AI that’s interpreting the written words that you put in,” says Kevin Alster.

Transforming Video Production in L&D

Creating educational videos traditionally involved a lengthy process of storyboarding, scripting, recording, and editing. This process was time-consuming and costly. With AI avatars, this workflow is significantly streamlined. By simply typing in text, you can generate a talking head video in minutes, drastically reducing the time and cost associated with video production.

“When you need to create video, AI avatars can generate content faster, saving time and reducing costs,” Kevin explains.

Multilingual Capabilities

One of the standout features of AI avatars is their ability to seamlessly switch between languages. This is particularly beneficial for global companies that need to create content in multiple languages. While AI translation isn’t perfect, it can get you 90% of the way there, making content accessible to a wider audience.

“Using AI to translate, you can move seamlessly between languages, making your content accessible globally,” says Kevin.

Customization Options

Currently, customization options for AI avatars include changing outfits, adding logos, and modifying backgrounds. More advanced customization, like altering hair or facial features, is still limited. However, the ease of creating a personal avatar using a phone or webcam makes this technology highly accessible.

“Customization is still evolving, but creating a personal avatar is easy and accessible with just your phone or webcam,” Kevin highlights.

Use Cases of AI Avatars in L&D

Kevin shared several compelling examples of how different companies have successfully integrated AI avatars into their L&D strategies:

1. Zoom: Uses AI avatars for interactive sales enablement training, creating immersive story-based learning experiences.
2. DuPont: Transitioned to asynchronous courses using AI avatars, delivering high-quality training at scale without high production costs.
3. Heineken: Shifted from lengthy PowerPoint presentations to bite-sized videos featuring avatars for improved engagement.

“The possibilities are endless. AI avatars can be used in various L&D contexts, from interactive stories to efficient training videos,” says Kevin.

Re-examining L&D Tools

The advent of generative AI and large language models offers an opportunity to reassess the tools and methods used in L&D. Kevin emphasizes the importance of unbundling projects and outcomes to identify which tools are truly necessary and how they can be enhanced with AI capabilities.

“We need to revisit our tools and see how AI can optimize our L&D processes,” Kevin advises.

Measuring Effectiveness and ROI

Measuring the effectiveness and ROI of AI-driven training programs depends on the specific goals and metrics of the L&D team. Metrics can range from time to develop content to engagement and sentiment. Aligning L&D initiatives with business objectives is crucial for demonstrating impact.

“It’s essential to align learning metrics with business objectives to truly measure ROI,” Kevin points out.

The Future of AI Avatars in L&D

Can AI avatars fully replace human instructors? Kevin believes that while AI avatars are excellent at delivering information, human instructors play a vital role in engaging learners, testing assumptions, and providing personalized feedback. The future of L&D will likely involve a blend of AI-driven content delivery and human interaction to create rich, effective learning experiences.

“AI avatars are great for delivering information, but human interaction is crucial for effective learning,” Kevin concludes.

Explore further insights on AI avatars and their impact on learning and development check out the full episode of The Digital Adoption Show: Are AI Avatars the Future of Learning and Development? With Kevin Alster.