As outbreaks continue to challenge communities worldwide, READY-2 remains a vital tool, empowering NGO teams to respond faster, communicate effectively, and lead with confidence.
Case study
Training for the unthinkable: how READY prepares NGOs for outbreaks with a innovative simulation
%
of learners found the simulation intuitive and easy to navigate, ensuring smooth adoption
%
reported enhanced outbreak response skills, bridging knowledge with action
%
are applying their skills in real-world crises, demonstrating lasting impact
+
countries and regions where READY-2 is actively preparing frontline workers
Project Overview
Save The Children’s READY Initiative faced a tough challenge—how do you prepare health workers for unpredictable outbreaks where mistakes can cost lives? Real-world training isn’t an option during a crisis, yet quick, informed decisions are critical. Together, we created an interactive simulation set in Thisland, a fictional but lifelike environment where learners experience the pressures of outbreak response firsthand.
By blending scientific content with storytelling, we designed a space where health workers could fail safely and learn fast. The project has earned industry acclaim, including a Brandon Hall Award and Games for Change finalist recognition.
Want to talk to one of our experts to learn more about READY 2!: Thisland in Crisis?
The challenge
The Problem
Outbreaks are unpredictable and chaotic. When they hit, healthcare workers must analyze conflicting data, communicate effectively, and make life-saving decisions under immense pressure. The READY Initiative, led by Save The Children, recognized that conventional training couldn't replicate this high-stakes environment. They needed a way to simulate the stress, uncertainty, and rapid response required during real outbreaks—without real-world risks. Additionally, the solution needed to scale globally, accommodating diverse cultural contexts and maintaining academic accuracy.
READY turned to us to create a unique and custom solution to bring this vision to life. Together, we crafted an immersive simulation that allows learners to practice leadership, communication, and critical decision-making under pressure, building the confidence to face real outbreaks head-on.
Want to see for yourself? The simulation is available for free on READY's website
The solution
Welcome to Thisland: Where fictional crises build real-world skills
To prepare health workers for real-world outbreaks, we envisioned Thisland—a fictional but realistic environment that reflects the diverse political, social, and cultural contexts NGO workers face globally. Thisland serves as the backdrop for the entire simulation, immersing learners in an unfolding crisis where decisions shape the outcome.
Participants grapple with conflicting information, limited resources, and mounting community pressure—mirroring the unpredictable nature of actual outbreaks. By designing Thisland to feel both familiar and scalable, we ensured the simulation resonates across regions, minimizing bias and maximizing relevance for a diverse global audience.
Stepping into the story: How learners drive the simulation forward
In Thisland, every decision carries weight. READY wanted learners to experience the ripple effects of their choices in real-time, reinforcing the need for sharp strategic thinking and adaptability. Each interaction is designed not only to provide qualitative feedback but also to model epidemiological data that reflects the consequences of their actions.
By blending immersive storytelling with data-driven insights, the experience challenges participants to analyze trends, manage risks, and navigate outbreak complexities. This unique mix of academic rigor and hands-on, engaging learning empowers health workers to experiment, learn from missteps, and refine their approach in a safe, realistic setting.
With fine-grained and immediate feedback immediately after key decisions, learners build the confidence and critical skills they need to lead during future crises.
What learners are saying about READY-2
"The simulation felt real with data thrown at you and changing circumstances. Nicely designed scenarios - striking reality!"
Student
John Hopkins University
"Thank you so much. As a field epidemiologist and facilitator, I want to use it in my classes for my students. I am grateful to you!"
Global launch event attendant
The results
Impact that travels across borders
Since launching in December 2023, READY’s simulation has reached thousands of health workers in more than 85 countries. Its international scalability and focus on real-world application have made it an essential training tool for NGO teams worldwide.
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95% call the simulation user-friendly
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85% say it boosted their outbreak knowledge
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91% apply their learning in real life
Our collaboration in driving this initiative has not gone unnoticed. The project earned a Bronze Brandon Hall Edtech Excellence Award and was named a finalist at the 2024 Games for Change Awards—recognition of READY’s dedication to innovation in crisis response training.
Where are we now
Expanding access to strengthen global outbreak readiness
As READY-2 has grown beyond borders, the simulation has been localized into French, expanding accessibility for francophone regions and ensuring broader global reach. Today, health workers across more than 85 countries are actively engaging with the simulation, sharpening their outbreak response skills in diverse, real-world contexts.
Services we provided:
- Simulation design and development
- Interactive scenario development
- Media asset creation
Inspired by READY-2? Collaborate with us to build your custom Solution
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