8 Factors to Consider When Choosing an eLearning Authoring Tool in 2024

In today's digital age, eLearning is becoming increasingly popular as a way to deliver training and education. There are many different eLearning authoring tools available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right tool for your needs can be a challenge, but it's important to do your research to find the one that will best meet your requirements.

8 Factors to Consider When Choosing an eLearning Authoring Tool

1. Generative AI support

Generative AI is a powerful tool that can be used to create engaging and effective eLearning courses. Here are some specific examples of how generative AI is being used in eLearning today:

• Creating interactive content: Generative AI is being used to create interactive content, such as chatbots and virtual assistants, to provide learners with immediate feedback and support. For example, a chatbot can answer common questions and provide additional resources to learners in real-time, enhancing the learning experience.
• Personalizing learning experiences: Generative AI is being used to personalize learning experiences by understanding the learner's individual needs and preferences. This can help learners to learn more effectively and efficiently.
• Improving the overall quality of eLearning courses: Generative AI is being used to improve the overall quality of eLearning courses by automating the creation of content and personalizing learning experiences. This can lead to improved learner outcomes and a better return on investment for eLearning programs.

Modern eLearning authoring tools like Calibr uses Generative AI as a core feature to automate the content creation, provide support for spelling and grammar checks and help course developers easily generate course outline.

2.  Deployment and scalability

Whether the course authoring tool will be cloud-hosted or you need to install it on local desktop should be a key consideration when deciding which tool to go for. A cloud based authoring tool provides following benefits:

• Easy to collaborate with other authors as multiple authors can login to a centralized cloud based system 
• Easy to scale as you can onboard more users on demand
• Access from anywhere, anytime

3.  Determine Your Budget

eLearning authoring tools come in a range of prices, from free to thousands of dollars. Before you start your search, determine how much you are willing to spend. Keep in mind that some eLearning authoring tools require a subscription, while others charge a one-time fee.

Free eLearning authoring tools can be a great option for those on a tight budget. However, keep in mind that free tools often have limited functionality and may not be suitable for complex eLearning content.

4. Consider the Learning Curve

Some eLearning authoring tools are more user-friendly than others. If you have limited experience with eLearning authoring tools, you may want to choose a tool that is easy to use and has a short learning curve. Look for tools that offer tutorials, demos, and customer support to help you get started.

On the other hand, if you are an experienced eLearning developer, you may want a tool that offers advanced features and customization options.

5. Consider Your Learning Objectives

Before you start looking for an eLearning authoring tool, you need to determine your learning objectives. What do you want your learners to achieve? What are the skills or knowledge areas that you want to focus on? The answers to these questions will help you determine the type of eLearning content you need to create and the features you need in your authoring tool.

For example, if you want to create interactive simulations, you will need an authoring tool that supports simulation creation. If you want to create mobile-friendly content, you will need an authoring tool that supports responsive design.

6. Look for Customization Options

Different eLearning projects require different levels of customization. Look for authoring tools that allow you to customize the look and feel of your eLearning content. This can include custom branding, font selection, color schemes, and more.

Customization options can also include the ability to add interactive elements like quizzes, games, and assessments.

7. Integration with your LMS

If you already have an LMS, you'll need to make sure that the eLearning authoring tool you choose is compatible with it. Not all authoring tools are compatible with all LMSs. 

If you are not using an LMS then you may also consider platforms that offer both eLearning authoring tool and a built in LMS. For example, Calibr offers you a unified platform with an eLearning authoring tool, a Learning Experience Platform (LXP) and a Learning Management System (LMS).

8. Evaluate Support and Training

Even if you choose a user-friendly eLearning authoring tool, you may still need assistance from time to time. Look for tools that offer customer support, including email, phone, or chat support. Some tools also offer online communities where you can connect with other eLearning developers and get advice.

Training is also important. Look for tools that offer online tutorials, documentation, and training resources. Some tools may even offer in-person or online training sessions.

Choosing the right e-learning authoring tool is crucial to create engaging and effective online courses that meet the needs of modern learners. With so many options available, it can be challenging to make an informed decision. However, by considering the factors we've discussed in this article, such as your budget, course content, learning objectives, user experience, and technical requirements, you can narrow down your options and find an e-learning authoring tool that meets your needs. 

Whether you're an experienced e-learning developer or new to the field, taking the time to research and select the right authoring tool can make all the difference in creating successful e-learning courses. With the right e-learning authoring tool, you can unlock the full potential of online learning and take your learners on a journey of knowledge and discovery.

Once you've considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices. Also, read this article to know about the 7 best eLearning authoring tools.