The digital media effort is powered by Thought Industries, the Boston firm also behind the recent launch of Rodale’s e-learning brand, Rodale U
The Reader’s Digest Association unveiled two e-learning websites – one involving home cooking, the other home repair – each powered by Thought Industries, a Boston company that works with third parties to create e-learning brands.
“Publishing organizations lend themselves extremely well to the operation of an online learning business. Why? Because much of the integral pieces of a successful online learning business are already in place,” Barry Kelly, CEO of Thought Industries said in a column on the Publishing Executive website.
“Publishers have a great deal of rich content that can be easily transformed into learning products of all kinds: guides, webinars, courses, programs, and more,” Kelly said. “Furthermore, there are editorial teams, authors, and contributors, all “subject-matter experts” that can serve as credible sources. Publishers also have established marketing and distribution channels that are available to promote and offer online learning to both existing and new audiences. Above all else, they often have preexisting loyal audiences that trust them and look to them for advice.”
Thought Industries is powering Rodale’s online learning brand, Rodale U, launched earlier this year.
Here is the announcement for the Reader’s Digest Association effort:
NEW YORK, NY – July 30, 2015 – In a move that further expands its multiplatform digital media offerings, Reader’s Digest Association (RDA), home to some of the world’s largest, most trusted and iconic media brands, today announced the launch of its new e-learning platform, EnrichU. The online platform officially debuts with the Taste of Home Online Cooking School and The Family Handyman DIY University. A third RDA e-learning program is scheduled for the fall, with additional programming to follow.
“Millions of people turn to our brands as trusted sources of inspiration, motivation and authoritative advice to help develop new skills, share passions and make positive improvements in their lives,” said Bonnie Kintzer, President and CEO of Reader’s Digest Association. “Now with EnrichU, the online community has access to our engaging content and talented editors anywhere and at any time.”
Taste of Home Online Cooking School
The premier online school for home cooks, the Taste of Home Online Cooking School e-learning portal features curated how-to videos for beloved recipes created by home cooks across the country and individually tested by culinary experts in the Taste of Home Test Kitchen. The tutorials aim to easily answer, “What am I cooking tonight?” and are designed for those who want to bring their families together to enjoy delicious, home cooked meals.
Course instructors range from Taste of Home editors and Test Kitchen chefs to notable authors and well-known food bloggers. Students can choose classes based on meal type, cuisine, specific ingredients and dietary needs. Whether a home cook wants to learn “Everyday Gluten Free” recipes or indulge in “American as Pie,” the Taste of Home Online Cooking School teaches the best recipes selected by the editors of America’s most popular cooking magazine.
“Cooking should be enjoyable – not arduous – and practice makes perfect,” said Catherine Cassidy, Editor-in-Chief of Taste of Home magazine. “The Taste of Home Online Cooking School brings together a passionate community of like-minded home cooks and teaches cooks of every level how to enhance their cooking style on their own time, with terrific recipes, expert instruction and techniques to take the work out of meal prep.”
The Family Handyman DIY University
For the do-it-yourself enthusiast, The Family Handyman DIY University is the only place for step-by-step, easy-to-follow instructional video courses backed by The Family Handyman’s 64 years of editorial experience. The online learning platform is perfect for do-it-yourselfers that range from new homeowners to seasoned DIY enthusiasts looking to sharpen their skills in anything from basic electrical work to yard landscaping. Instructors include The Family Handyman editors as well as trade experts, and span categories that cover basic skills and tips, electrical, trim, plumbing and outdoor projects. For the DIYer looking to “Paint a Room Like a Pro,” or “Fix it Yourself and Save,” DIY University makes it easy to learn.
EnrichU delivers expert content in the areas of food and cooking, DIY home improvement, and health and wellness. It motivates and inspires consumers to explore and share their passions and pursue new areas of discovery that enrich their lives.
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