Selecting the Right Authoring Tool for Elearning Programs

Choosing the right eLearning authoring tool can be difficult with the number of choices available. Trying to find one that meets the needs of the company without going over the budget can be a challenge.

The right authoring tool has a tremendous impact on the learner and on the bottom line of the company, which raises the stakes and adds to the pressure of making an appropriate selection.

The decision can be made a little simpler with these guidelines to follow.

Choosing an authoring tool

Think through some of these suggestions to lend some clarity to the decision on an authoring tool:

Decide if it’s more important to go for simplicity or more creativity. This is actually a much-debated topic among those in the eLearning world. Some software allows total creative control in the eLearning design. While there is much freedom, it’s also a more complicated choice. Pre-made templates are very simple to use, yet they don’t allow as much creativity of design. Weigh out the pros and cons of each to figure out which one is the best fit for your organizational goals.
Keep the learning goals at the forefront. It’s imperative to have a handle on what components will be included and the desired results. For example, is the purpose of the course to appeal to visual learners by using a many embedded videos? Or is the end goal to teach a specific skill by using simulations and real-life scenarios? Once there is a clear objective, the choice will be simpler.
Think about the method of delivery. If the eLearning coursework will be available for use on mobile devices, the right authoring tool will be one in which this is a possibility. Knowing exactly how the content will be delivered to the intended audience will help to narrow the choices.
Decide how interactive the program will be. Some tools allow for a high level of interactivity, while others are more restricted. For example, if the eLearning course contains a significant amount of simulation and real-life scenarios, be sure to choose an authoring tool that is compatible.
Consider ease of assessment development. Feedback and assessment are vitally important for a learner to successfully complete an eLearning course. Be intentional about choosing an authoring tool that allows the creation of quizzes and assessments that are in-depth and comprehensive.
Thoroughly investigate all the choices. The most important advice for choosing an authoring tool that’s a perfect fit is to explore and examine all the options available. Be as educated as possible about the different types and the advantages and limitations of each.

Most popular authoring tools

Check out this list of today’s most-used authoring tools:

Keep in mind that different tools may be needed at different times. Most designers use two or three authoring tools, though they will have one that they use as their go-to.

It’s an important decision but the right amount of preparation and research will certainly pay off by increasing employee engagement and retention, improving productivity and positively impacting the bottom line!

Contact Designing Digitally, Inc. today and determine which authoring tool is best for your learning needs.