Transforming Drone Training: The Journey of Droneit
Turning a hobby into a regulated, license delivering online academy for Professionals
In the rapidly evolving world of drone technology, the demand for skilled operators has surged, prompting innovative solutions in training. Droneit, founded by former cricket star Lee Carseldine in 2014, emerged to fill this gap by providing comprehensive drone flying training services. Initially, the business operated as a service provider, with Carseldine himself piloting drones for clients across Australia. However, as the industry matured and regulations tightened, it became clear that a shift in focus was necessary to sustain growth and meet the increasing demand for trained drone operators.
The Challenge: Outdated Training Methods
As Droneit expanded, Carseldine and his team recognized a significant issue: the traditional face-to-face training model was becoming obsolete. The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) had reservations about online training, which complicated the implementation of a modern learning approach. The initial attempt to create a custom learning management system (LMS) proved to be a challenge, as it required constant maintenance and updates, draining resources that could be better allocated elsewhere.
The need for a more efficient and effective training platform became urgent. Droneit sought a solution that would not only streamline operations but also enhance the learning experience for students. The existing LMS options on the market fell short, lacking essential features such as integration capabilities, customizable content delivery, and robust support systems.
The Solution: Embracing LearnWorlds
After extensive trials with various LMS platforms, Droneit discovered LearnWorlds, a solution that offered the comprehensive functionality they required at a competitive price. This platform allowed Droneit to embed their booking system directly into the course structure, ensuring that students could only schedule exams after completing all course materials. This feature was crucial for maintaining the integrity of the training process.
Additionally, LearnWorlds provided a vibrant forum for student interaction, significantly reducing the volume of repetitive inquiries directed at instructors. The platform's user-friendly interface and diverse content delivery options—ranging from video to audio—enhanced student engagement and facilitated a more dynamic learning environment.
The Positive Outcome: A Thriving Online Academy
Since integrating LearnWorlds into their operations, Droneit has experienced remarkable growth, with the online training division becoming the core of their business model. The transition to a fully online learning environment has not only attracted a broader audience but also increased enrollment numbers significantly.
Droneit now caters to a diverse demographic, including individuals aged 16 to 55, interested in technology, aerospace, and entrepreneurship. The effective use of digital marketing strategies, including social media and SEO, has positioned Droneit as a leader in the drone training sector.
Carseldine's vision for Droneit extends beyond immediate success; he aims to establish the brand as a household name in commercial drone licensing. With plans to become a registered training organization (RTO) and collaborate more closely with manned aviation, Droneit is poised for further expansion.
Conclusion: Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations
The journey of Droneit illustrates the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing industry. By embracing modern technology and innovative training methods, the company has not only overcome initial challenges but has also set a benchmark for online education in the drone sector. Carseldine emphasizes the critical role of marketing in their success, advocating for a strong marketing strategy to drive growth.
As Droneit continues to evolve, it remains committed to providing top-notch training that equips aspiring drone operators with the skills they need to thrive in this exciting industry.
Want to find out more about how LearnWorlds helps make learning possible for L&D teams on a budget?