How the Association for Project Managers brought podcast-style learning to 28,250 members
Founded
Princes Risborough, Bucks
Members reached
Multi-site workforce
Engagement and Content Gaps
As a membership organisation, APM faced a unique set of challenges regarding their digital learning offering:
Unlike corporate compliance training, usage of the APM platform is entirely voluntary. Members are not required to use it, as flexibility and choice are important for engagement; they must want to use it for professional development.
While APM creates exceptional content specific to their competency framework and branding, they wanted to provide even more high-quality training on broader business topics.
With members ranging from entry-level to executive positions across multiple industries, APM required content that appealed to a broad demographic.
“[Assemble You] really allows us to fill that gap of content where we’re not the subject matter experts.”
— Sarah Layzell, Digital Learning Manager, APM
A ‘Learning Buffet’ of Audio Content
APM integrated Assemble You podcasts as an exclusive digital benefit for paying members. This partnership enabled APM to expand beyond project management expertise and offer a comprehensive library of ‘power skills.’
• General Business Skills • Customer Service • Equality, Diversity and Inclusion • Team Management • Microsoft Tools (Excel, Copilot)
The shift toward shorter, audio-based lessons has resonated with APM’s busy professional audience. The bite-sized format enables learners to quickly refresh their knowledge or address specific skill gaps without disrupting their workday while complementing and enhancing their project management learning.
10-minute content is perceived as actionable — something a learner can complete in a break and apply the same day.
The podcast format fits naturally into the daily lives of modern professionals.
Data shows particularly high interest in Productivity, Microsoft Tools/AI, and Behavioural Content (confidence, well-being).
"I've heard from learners that spending 10 minutes on something is much more useful than having to spend two hours working through a course. It's something you can do in your lunch break and start having an immediate impact."
— Sarah Layzell, Digital Learning Manager, APM
Based on APM’s successful implementation, Sarah Layzell offers the following advice for organisations looking to introduce audio-first learning:
Tailor the content to your learners’ needs rather than uploading the entire library at once.
Look beyond traditional metrics like “course completions” or “hours spent.” Focus on the workplace results and learner feedback.
Encourage learners to try different lessons and use their feedback to refine the offering.
Explore the libraries, experience the formats and see how Assemble You drives real engagement at scale.
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