Total Training Video-Based Training on DVD

Total Training provides high-quality, video-based training on CD and DVD for many of Adobe's software programs. Each video set is packaged nicely with a quick reference guide and a CD of files that users can work with as they watch. Because the videos tend to be blurry when played on a PC, I suggest setting up a TV near the computer so you can watch and follow along. Beginners who prefer a visual approach to learning will benefit most from this--experienced users may find it redundant.

I am not the type of person who benefits from video-based training. Regardless of presenter or subject matter, training videos never fail to make me sleepy. That said, I realize some people prefer a visual approach to learning software, and Total Training's videos do an excellent job of providing that.

For this review I watched several hours of two Total Training titles: Adobe Photoshop 7, with 26 hours of instruction on 8 DVDs; and Adobe Illustrator 10, with 18 hours of instruction on 6 DVDs. Both are hosted by Deke McClelland, who is conversational and engaging. An included CD-ROM contains all the files used in the training so you can work along with the instructor. You also get a quick reference guide that outlines the topics covered in each lesson. The programs alternate between Macintosh and Windows platforms and instruction is always provided for both, so users of either system can follow along.

Because the linear nature of video-based training in general, I feel it's best suited to beginners. The only problem I encountered was that the videos were blurry when played on the PC. In the Photoshop video, this was tolerable--but in the Illustrator video, I was unable to see some of the objects being drawn. The videos looked fine on a TV. If possible, I suggest you play them on a TV that's near your PC so you can follow along as you watch. All in all, the videos are very well done, and you're sure to learn from them.