Specialized is recognized as one of the leading manufacturer of performance bicycles and frequently releases industry firsts in terms of product design and innovative technology. In order to insure an informed sales force, Specialized started Specialized Bicycles Component University (SBCU), a multi-tiered training system to help educate their dealers about their continually evolving line of bikes, equipment and technology. The Interactive Training guide is the final tier in this program.

Working closely with Specialized over two complete seasons, we developed a series of interactive training components, the first program of it’s kind in the bicycle industry. The cornerstone of the interactive program is a series of Adobe Flash driven volumes that provide in-depth knowledge of the complete Specialized product line. These volumes were huge in terms of information architecture as well as production value; they include complete product specs, video segments showing products in action, as well as animated instructional presentations demonstrating key technologies.

After reviewing any section of the training volumes, users participate in online testing to demonstrate their knowledge of the Specialized product line and qualify to win contest prizes. The Specialized-backed incentive program encourages employee participation and allows Specialized to verify the effectiveness of the SBCU training program.

Specialized is able to fully administer the online testing through a custom-built content management system, developed using PHP/MySQL. Administers can create and organize tests, check users scores, and mange contest prizes through an easy to use interface.