Susan Clarkson reviews: the ultimate change show by video arts
Format: the programme includes video, course leaders
guide, delegates worksheets, Powerpoint slides and self-study workbooks
Price: Purchase price £995, rental £185 for two days,
excluding VAT and delivery.
From: Video Arts 0207 637 7288
The format of this video is not what you might expect from a traditional
Video Arts presentation but is bang up to date in terms of the kind of thing
you and I are used to seeing on the television every day.
It is a scenario similar to the Jerry Springer Show format: guests with
attitude, unexpected events and the usual argy-bargy and chair throwing. Only
the presenter is called ‘Harry Bailey’ (played by David Soul) and you get to
see ‘Harry’ behind the scenes as well as in front of the camera. Bear in mind
that this could turn some people off if they have a real loathing of this type
of show.
There are two plots which both have adapting to change as their themes. Each
plot explores different aspects of how to deal with change and how to involve
others in the process to get their acceptance. It is a light-hearted approach
to a very serious subject, but the way it is done is quite powerful and because
it is portrayed in very familiar surroundings, it is entertaining and the
message gets through.
Its format and subject matter make it more suitable for viewing by larger
and mixed audiences. Several aspects of how to deal with change are dealt with
so not everything covered will be relevant to every audience member, but it is
definitely the sort of video that will wake up the post-lunch sleepy heads.
Sign up to our weekly round-up of HR news and guidance
Receive the Personnel Today Direct e-newsletter every Wednesday
You do not get the usual on-screen reminders of the messages so it would be
important for any trainer to pick up on all the themes discussed and to use
them as starters for discussion. This is not a problem, however, as having
these messages flashed in front of your eyes, when quite often it is pretty
obvious what message is being portrayed, can be distracting. This video treats
the audience as a ‘grown up’ and assumes you are intelligent enough to get the
message without ramming it home.
One of the most powerful messages that this video puts across is that change
is constant.
