Solid instructional design. Don't mistake special effects for solid instructional design. Appropriate use of the media . Engaging and interactive methodologies.
Adults learn by doing.
The software should engage the participant in realistic situations in a variety of interactive media, such as high-quality video, audio and animation. Adult learners want direct links between what they're learning and real life. Cartoons may get a smile, but it is irrelevant to the learner's work environment. Simulations should grab the user's attention and credence. Effective technology-based learning is highly intuitive, enabling the learner to navigate through the program quickly and easily.