The tech world was abuzz when LinkedIn announced its $1.5 billion acquisition of Lynda.com, the online learning platform. While some questioned the hefty price tag and strategic fit, as a content creator for Lynda Learning since 2011, I can offer firsthand insight into why this union isn’t just logical, but a powerful move for professional development. Having developed 17 courses spanning audio recording and social media for Lynda Learning, I was immediately impressed by their commitment to quality education from the moment I stepped into their facilities four years ago. Let me share why this acquisition is a strategic masterstroke.
First-hand Experience with Lynda Learning as an Author
My journey with Lynda Learning began unexpectedly. David Franz, Audio Channel Content Manager at Lynda, was a guest on my podcast, AudioNowcast. Following the show, David suggested that my books could be adapted into valuable online courses. This led to an invitation to audition at their studios – an offer I initially met with some hesitation. I was accustomed to presenting at industry events and universities globally, and my YouTube channel showcased my expertise. However, David gently insisted, “No offense, but everyone has to go through this.” And so, I found myself heading to Oxnard for an on-camera and voice-over “screen test”.
This rigorous audition process, I soon realized, is fundamental to Lynda Learning’s unparalleled success in the online education sphere.
The High Standards of Lynda Learning Content Creation
Lynda Learning sets a high bar for its instructors. Unlike some educators one might encounter, simply knowing your subject matter isn’t enough. You must possess the ability to articulate complex information clearly and engagingly to even be considered part of the Lynda Learning team. This selective approach ensures that only the most effective communicators are guiding students.
Alt text: Lynda Learning studio environment showcasing professional video and audio equipment, highlighting the platform’s commitment to high-quality course production.
Furthermore, Lynda Learning invests heavily in ensuring every course is polished and impactful. A dedicated team of producers, audio and video editors, and special effects experts – many with backgrounds in Hollywood – treat each course like a premium production. My personal experience with producer Todd Howard was exceptional. While the state-of-the-art gear and facilities are impressive, it’s this meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of course creation that distinguishes Lynda Learning from platforms offering hit-or-miss video content often found on YouTube and elsewhere. This commitment to quality directly translates to a superior learning experience and better learning outcomes for users seeking effective online education.
Lynda Learning’s Exceptional Company Culture
One of the most striking aspects of Lynda Learning is its positive company culture. Visiting their Carpenteria, California campus, you immediately sense a high level of employee morale. Many employees come from freelance backgrounds, where a traditional “job” might feel restrictive. Yet, at Lynda Learning, the overwhelming sentiment is one of genuine job satisfaction. It’s common to hear unsolicited comments from employees about how much they love working there.
This positive environment stems from the leadership of founders Lynda Weinman and Bruce Heavin, along with CEO Eric Robison, who have fostered a truly exceptional workplace. In my four years of collaboration, every interaction with Lynda Learning staff across various departments has been a pleasure. I have consistently found everyone to be professional, helpful, and genuinely passionate about their work and the platform’s mission.
Personal Benefits as a Lynda Learning User
My appreciation for Lynda Learning extends beyond my role as an author; I am also a dedicated user. Lynda Learning courses have been instrumental in my own professional development. I’ve utilized their tutorials to master software like Final Cut, Photoshop, and WordPress, skills I rely on daily. Whenever I need to learn a new software program, business technique, or creative skill, Lynda Learning is my first and most trusted resource. The breadth and depth of their course library is truly impressive, covering everything from technical skills to business strategies.
Strategic Fit: LinkedIn and Lynda Learning – A Powerful Combination
This personal experience as both a creator and user solidified my understanding of why Lynda Learning is such a valuable asset, and why its integration with LinkedIn is a strategic masterstroke. For LinkedIn users aiming to acquire new skills, pursue certifications, or even pivot their careers, the seamless access to Lynda Learning’s extensive course library through LinkedIn Learning provides immense value.
Alt text: Profile image of Bobby Owsinski, a Lynda Learning author, highlighting instructor expertise and credibility on the LinkedIn Learning platform.
LinkedIn’s move to incorporate Lynda Learning directly addresses a core need of its professional user base: continuous learning and skill development. By offering Lynda Learning content, LinkedIn significantly enhances its platform’s utility, transforming it from a professional networking site to a comprehensive career development hub. For LinkedIn Premium subscribers, the inclusion of Lynda Learning courses represents a substantial increase in value, making the subscription even more compelling.
Lynda Learning’s Effective Approach to Online Education
While universities explore MOOCs as the future of education, Lynda Learning champions a highly effective, albeit technologically advanced, version of a time-tested method: mentorship and apprenticeship. In today’s increasingly individualized digital world, where learning often occurs in isolation with a computer, Lynda Learning fosters a sense of personalized instruction. This intimate learning environment is what makes Lynda Learning courses so impactful. The focus is on clear, expert-led instruction delivered in a high-quality, engaging format, mirroring the effectiveness of a one-on-one mentorship.
In conclusion, Lynda Learning is an exceptional company and a valuable addition to the LinkedIn ecosystem. LinkedIn’s acquisition is not just a smart purchase; it’s a strategic investment in the future of professional development, offering users unparalleled access to high-quality Lynda learning resources directly within their professional network. LinkedIn, with Lynda Learning now integrated, has significantly strengthened its position as the go-to platform for career advancement and lifelong learning.
