ECMWF Case Study

About ECMWF

Established in 1975, the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) is an independent intergovernmental organisation supported by 34 States. ECMWF is both a research institute and a 24/7 operational service, producing and disseminating numerical weather predictions to its Member States. Based in Reading, ECMWF now employs around 300 staff from more than 30 countries.

The Challenge

ECMWF provides training to help Member and Co-operating States maximize its computing services, data, and forecasting expertise. Their program includes face-to-face courses, webinars, and blended learning, previously with limited online resources.

To meet growing demand and expand their reach, ECMWF sought e-learning modules for standalone or integrated use in courses. These modules would reduce staff workload, offer flexible training—adaptable to shift work—and cater to diverse audiences, including academics, scientists, forecasters, and technical staff.

E-learning enables users across Europe to access training at their convenience without travel. The content needed to be platform-independent, modular for reuse, and effective as standalone resources without a lecturer.

/n/n### The Delivery

After winning the tender, Virtual College quickly organised workshops to define learning objectives for 12 courses.

ECMWF provided detailed subject matter expertise, while Virtual College used varied methodologies to tackle complex topics like ‘Ensemble Forecasting’ and ‘Parametrization.’ Their experience working with diverse experts helped streamline knowledge transfer.

To minimise language barriers, graphics were prioritised over text. Engaging techniques such as screen recordings, simulations, and challenges were used, maintaining a consistent visual style agreed upon early.

Virtual College’s experienced team ensured a structured content development process—storyboarding, design, testing, and evaluation—delivering high-quality modules on schedule.

The Results

Virtual College’s approach aims to enhance and enrich the complex and detailed content required for the 12 bespoke modules, using its expertise and experience to make the online learning materials interactive and engaging.

The aim of the online learning resources was to create a blended solution. Online learning is to be used to provide underpinning knowledge to complement face-to-face learning which will have to be revised accordingly.

The initial success of the relationship has led ECMWF to agree to Virtual College working on a second phase to develop a stand-alone course for people new to ECMWF.