In the fast-paced world of manufacturing, clarity is everything. Whether you’re training a new operator, improving a maintenance procedure, or rolling out a safety standard, clear communication can mean the difference between success and costly mistakes. That’s where One-Point Lessons (OPLs) – also known as Single Point Lessons – come into play.
What is a One-Point Lesson?
A One-Point Lesson is a simple, visual training tool used in manufacturing to communicate a single, specific piece of knowledge. True to its name, each OPL is focused on one point only – whether that’s how to safely operate a machine, what to watch out for during a cleaning procedure, or how to identify signs of wear on a specific component.
These lessons are:
- Short and focused (often one A4 page)
- Highly visual (photos, diagrams, and symbols are common)
- Easy to understand (written in plain language)
- Shared on the shop floor (often printed or displayed at workstations)
They originated in Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) methodologies and have since become a global best practice in lean manufacturing, Kaizen, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Why One-Point Lessons Work
OPLs are powerful because they reduce cognitive overload and standardize critical knowledge in a digestible format. Rather than overwhelming workers with a dense SOP or lengthy manual, an OPL delivers what’s essential – and only that. This leads to:
- Faster onboarding for new employees
- Fewer mistakes in routine tasks
- Improved safety and quality outcomes
- More empowered and informed workers
In a world where knowledge loss due to turnover or tribal knowledge is a growing concern, OPLs provide a scalable, repeatable solution.
How REWO Fits into the One-Point Lesson Methodology
Traditionally, One-Point Lessons have been printed documents pinned to bulletin boards or laminated sheets attached to machines. But in the age of digital transformation, that’s no longer enough. This is where REWO steps in.
REWO is a modern visual knowledge platform that allows companies to create, manage, and share video-based One-Point Lessons directly from the shop floor. With REWO, the OPL practice evolves from static paper-based formats into dynamic, digital micro-learning experiences.
1. Visual-first documentation
REWO enables the creation of step-by-step video instructions, recorded directly on-site. This aligns perfectly with the original intent of OPLs – to communicate clearly through visuals.
2. Rapid creation and updates
Creating an OPL in REWO is as simple as filming a task with a mobile device, adding voiceover or subtitles, and publishing. Updates can be made instantly, ensuring that lessons stay relevant and accurate.
3. Accessibility and version control
Operators always have access to the latest version of a lesson via QR codes, tablets, or workstation screens. No more outdated papers or confusion about the correct procedure.
4. Analytics and feedback
REWO provides analytics on lesson views and completions, helping you understand what knowledge is being absorbed and where additional support may be needed.
5. Multilingual capabilities
Automatic translation and AI-generated voiceovers remove language barriers and improve training outcomes for global teams.
Bridging the Gap Between Digital and Physical Training
What makes REWO especially powerful is its hybrid capability to bridge modern digital learning with traditional paper-based methods. While REWO focuses on video-first documentation, it also allows users to export keyframes and annotations from a video into a printable PDF format.
This means that you can take a video work instruction, highlight key steps, and automatically generate a printable One-Point Lesson in the familiar A4 layout. These printable OPLs:
- Feature key images and short instructional text
- Are easy to post at workstations or machines
- Include a QR code that links directly back to the full video instruction
This approach respects existing habits while introducing new capabilities. Technologically confident employees can scan the QR code and watch the full video, while others can still rely on the traditional printed format.
In this way, REWO doesn’t aim to disrupt existing workflows but rather to enhance and gradually evolve them. It offers a path forward for companies that want to embrace digital tools without alienating teams accustomed to established methods.
The Future of OPLs is Hybrid
As manufacturing operations become more complex and globally distributed, companies must embrace tools that scale knowledge and maintain consistency. One-Point Lessons will always be a foundational method, but by digitizing and enhancing them with REWO – and giving teams the flexibility to print and post when needed – organizations can future-proof their workforce training.
Want to see how REWO can bring your OPLs to life? Visit rewo.io and explore how your team can create better lessons, faster.