Elearning is an ever-evolving industry constantly enriched with new developments. If you work in this industry, you must be aware of the importance of eLearning authoring tools. They play a key role in creating engaging and accessible content.
When it comes to choosing an eLearning authoring tool, it’s not as simple as it might seem. For starters, by the virtue of an open market, we are spoiled with choices. With so many options to consider, how do you select the right one?
In this post, we’ll help you navigate the world of eLearning authoring tools and simplify the decision-making process. Let’s take a look at the factors you should consider when choosing an eLearning authoring tool.
Ease of Use
The content creators should be able to easily use the authoring tool you choose. They should be able to do this without much interference from tech-savvy developers. An easy-to-use authoring tool will significantly reduce the time and resources required for content creation. The easier the authoring tool, the higher is its return on investment.
Flexibility and Control
The eLearning content you create is a reflection of your brand. The course you develop will have some set standards and some flexibility in terms of layout, fonts and other elements. Therefore, the authoring tool of your choice should give some degree of creative control and flexibility.
Multi-platform Compatibility
The potential of your content will dramatically lessen if it’s not deployable on multiple devices. Look for an authoring tool that allows you to immediately publish content on desktop, tablets and mobile devices. When you’re marketing to increase your audience, it’s essential to make it easily accessible. You should check out mobile eLearning authoring tools directory to explore more.
Scalability
If there is an opportunity to create additional content, you shouldn’t be held back because your authoring tool isn’t scalable. A cloud-based, scalable authoring tool will allow you to utilise the skills of designers in multiple locations. You should be able to create content from anywhere in the world.
Streamlined Online Communication
Developing eLearning content is a collaboration between creators, stakeholders, reviewers and testers. That’s why you should select an authoring tool that streamlines online communications. Reviewers should be able to comment or provide feedback right on the page they’re reviewing. This is necessary to preclude communication inefficiencies such as conflicting change requests and missed emails.
Quick Publishing and Easy Maintenance
Changes in the course content are expected. When you’re considering an eLearning authoring tool, ensure that it can quickly publish these changes. For this purpose, a cloud-based authoring tool is more efficient than a desktop equivalent. As all the source files and courses are centrally stored on the cloud, you can access them from anywhere on the globe.
Easy Localization
One of the most important goals of eLearning is to take courses beyond the four walls of a classroom. Once you’ve saturated your local markets, it’s time to widen your reach. An authoring tool offering easy localization will allow you to target foreign audiences. With its help, you can translate your courses into multiple languages.
Easy Integration
An ideal authoring tool should be capable of exporting a SCORM or xAPI package into a compliant LMS. Your authoring tool should at least support SCORM standard so that you can conveniently export to HTML5 formats.
Analytics
Analytics is an instrument to assess whether your content is serving the purpose it was created for. Having an insight into how learners are responding to your content is imperative to further your market reach. With an authoring tool that offers analytics, you can make your courses more effective and relevant.
In conclusion, take your time researching and comparing different authoring tools available. We hope this post helps you with selecting a suitable eLearning tool for your business.
