Custom e-Learning development has become prominent as enterprises are aiming to upskill and enable their workforces with the right content, and branded learning experiences. As a result, most organizations invest in creating digital
learning experiences that are unique to their enterprise. These organizations have multiple custom e-Learning development projects being executed across different functions. However, you may be wondering:
- What’s custom e-Learning?
- How does it differ from standard e-Learning?
- Why do enterprises invest in custom e-Learning courses when ready-to-deploy e-learning training is available in the market?
To answer these questions, let’s explore the realm of custom e-Learning development in more detail.
What is Custom E-Learning Development?
Custom e-Learning development is the art and science of creating online educational materials that cater to specific organizational needs. Think of it like tailoring a suit—it’s cut, styled, and structured for a particular individual,
not off-the-rack. For instance, a multinational corporation may want to train its employees on its processes rather than generic processes that other enterprises follow. This calls for custom content that mirrors the company’s products, ethos, and branding.
A custom-made e-Learning course is also an e-Learning training. However, its content, branding, and delivery is customized to meet the needs of the organization and audience sponsoring its development.
Click the tabs or the plus + symbols below to expand and learn more about each facet of custom e-Learning development.
When Do You Need Custom E-Learning Development?
In the fast-paced world of digital learning, off-the-shelf courses might seem appealing for convenience and immediacy. However, sometimes, a generic course doesn’t cut it. Custom e-Learning development bridges these gaps and provides solutions tailored to specific requirements. Here are more instances when it’s essential to consider custom development:
Special e-Learning Content Needs for your Organization
Every organization has unique needs based on its products, services, and internal systems. Sometimes, off-the-shelf courses from providers like Udemy or LinkedIn Learning may not meet your learning and the associated performance goals.
- Scenario: A finance firm uses proprietary software for its operations. An off-the-shelf course on financial software might give a broad overview but won’t cater to the nuances of this specific software.
- Solution: Custom e-Learning modules can delve deep into the features and functionalities of this proprietary software, ensuring that employees understand it thoroughly and can use it efficiently.
Requirement for Branded e-Learning Experiences
Custom e-Learning allows companies to create courses that educate and imbue the company’s brand values and identity.
- Scenario: Consider an airline that prides itself on exceptional customer service. An off-the-shelf customer service course might provide general principles but won’t capture the airline’s unique approach and standards.
- Solution: A custom course can integrate the airline’s branding, real-life scenarios from its daily operations, and its ethos to offer a comprehensive training experience.
Unique User Experiences in Your Custom e-Learning Courses
Modern e-Learning offers many innovative learning experiences, from gamified modules to VR-based simulations.
- Scenario: A medical institution wants to train surgeons on a new procedure. While standard medical courses can provide theoretical knowledge, they might lack the hands-on experience surgeons need.
- Solution: Custom e-Learning development can create VR-based modules where surgeons can practice the procedure in a simulated environment, leading to better skill acquisition and retention.
Targeting Diverse Learner Profiles with Custom e-Learning Solutions
Sometimes, a one-size-fits-all course doesn’t cater to the diversity of your audience.
- Scenario: A multinational company with employees from various cultural backgrounds must train its staff on company ethics.
- Solution: Custom e-Learning can be developed with multiple cultural nuances, ensuring the content is relevant and respectful to all.
Integrating Custom e-Learning Development Projects/Courses with Existing Systems
Organizations often have pre-existing platforms or systems where training modules must be integrated seamlessly.
- Scenario: A company with a proprietary Learning Management System (LMS) wants to ensure new training modules align well with its platform.
- Solution: Custom development can ensure that the e-Learning courses are compatible with the existing LMS, offering smooth integration and a consistent user experience.
Custom e-Learning development isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity in many scenarios. It ensures that learning modules are not just generic information pieces but strategic tools that cater to an organization’s goals, values, and unique requirements.
A Walkthrough of Custom E-Learning Development Process
When developing custom e-Learning, you must choose from many processes and models. Two of the most prominent ones are ADDIE and SAM. Let’s examine these in depth:
ADDIE Model: A Proven Framework
ADDIE stands for Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. This five-step instructional system design has been the backbone of many e-Learning projects. To learn more about ADDIE, consider enrolling in our course:
Analysis
This stage is about understanding the “why” and “what.” Why is the training needed? What are the learning outcomes? This might mean identifying a skill gap in the workforce or realizing the need for training on a new software platform in a corporate setting.
Design
Here, instructional designers lay out the “how.” This involves crafting a detailed storyboard, defining learning objectives, and determining assessment strategies. It’s like laying out the blueprint for a house.
Development
This phase is all about bringing the design to life. It involves creating the course materials, from interactive elements and multimedia to quizzes and assessments. Imagine this as the construction phase of building that house.
Implementation
This is where learners access and go through the course. It’s about delivering the course via a Learning Management System (LMS) or another platform and ensuring smooth access for all intended users.
Evaluation
Continuous improvement is vital. This phase focuses on gathering feedback post-course delivery to refine and optimize the content. Think of it as a homeowner suggesting modifications after living in the new house for some time.
Why Choose ADDIE?
ADDIE’s systematic, linear approach makes it a choice process for many. Its comprehensive nature ensures that every aspect of e-Learning development is addressed, from understanding learner needs to continuous improvement. It’s ideal for projects with a clear scope and where incremental refinements after the course launch are acceptable.
SAM Model: An Iterative Approach for Custom e-Learning Development
SAM (Successive Approximation Model) is a more modern, agile approach to e-Learning development. SAM is characterized by its iterative cycles, allowing for continuous improvements and adjustments.
Preparation Phase
Instead of an exhaustive analysis, SAM begins with basic information and preliminary design ideas. It’s akin to sketching rough ideas on a napkin before a detailed design.
Iterative Design Phase
This phase involves creating prototypes, obtaining feedback, and refining the design in successive approximations. It’s a design, prototype, and review loop until the desired result is achieved.
Iterative Development Phase
Like the design phase, development here is iterative. Course elements are repeatedly created, reviewed, and refined, ensuring they align perfectly with learner needs and expectations.
Why Choose SAM Over ADDIE?
SAM is particularly effective for projects where requirements might evolve or when there’s a need to see tangible results quickly. Its iterative nature allows flexibility and adaptability, making it suitable for projects with uncertain or evolving parameters.
Deciding Between ADDIE and SAM
Choosing between ADDIE and SAM comes down to project specifics:
Scope & Clarity
ADDIE’s structured approach is beneficial for projects with well-defined objectives and scope. But if there’s uncertainty or a possibility of frequent changes, SAM’s flexibility can be a boon.
Timeline
Need to show quick results or prototypes? SAM’s iterative cycles can offer faster, tangible outcomes, whereas ADDIE might require more time upfront before showing concrete deliverables.
Stakeholder Involvement
With its repeated feedback loops, SAM requires consistent stakeholder engagement throughout the process. ADDIE, while also involving stakeholders, might not require as frequent check-ins.
Risk Tolerance
SAM is a good fit if stakeholders are open to evolving outcomes and can handle shifts in course direction. For projects where risks need to be minimized, and predictability is essential, ADDIE stands strong.
Navigating the Challenges when Converting ILT to a Custom e-Learning Course
You may get frequent requests from stakeholders in your organization to convert existing Instructor-led Training or ILT courses to custom e-Learning. Transforming ILT into e-Learning modules may seem straightforward to those unfamiliar with the intricacies of Instructional Design. However, it’s more than a simple content transfer from one format to another. Let’s examine the potential pitfalls and considerations to bear in mind.
Loss of Human Interaction:
In traditional ILT, the human touch – the real-time feedback, the spontaneity of a classroom setting, and the dynamism of a live instructor – plays a pivotal role. When transitioning to e-Learning:
- Challenge: For courses like language training, the nuances of tone, pronunciation, and emphasis are critical. These might be lost when moving to a purely digital format.
- Solution: Implement digital solutions that integrate video sessions or voiceovers. Incorporating interactive video modules where learners can listen, pause, and replay sections can significantly help bridge this interaction gap.
Content Overload if Custom e-Learning Development Projects Don’t Account for Absence of an Instructor
The digital learning environment is different. Learners often access modules on the go and in between other tasks.
- Challenge: An exhaustive handout that worked in a 3-hour classroom session can become overwhelming in e-Learning.
- Solution: Adapt content for the digital age. Break it into bite-sized modules, and use engaging multimedia and interactivity to keep learners engaged and prevent cognitive overload.
Ignoring Tech Constraints that are Associated with Custom e-Learning
While technology has revolutionized e-Learning, it brings its own set of challenges.
- Challenge: An elaborately designed course might work seamlessly on a desktop but may be barely navigable on a mobile device. Not to mention, some learners might have bandwidth constraints.
- Solution: Always design with a “mobile-first” approach. Ensure videos are optimized, graphics are responsive, and the overall course is accessible across devices and varying internet speeds.
Misunderstanding the Conversion Complexity before taking up Custom E-Learning Development Projects
A common misconception is that converting ILT to e-Learning is a quick job. This can lead to unrealistic timelines and inadequate budgets.
- Challenge: Stakeholders or management without a background in Instructional Design might undervalue the effort and expertise needed for such conversions.
- Solution: As an Instructional Designer, it’s crucial to communicate that converting ILT to custom e-Learning isn’t merely a copy-paste job. While ILT materials serve as invaluable, well-organized reference sources, and the instructor can be a great subject matter expert, the process involves reimagining content for the digital landscape. It’s advisable to treat ILT to e-Learning conversions similarly to developing new e-Learning courses regarding timelines, budgeting, and resource allocation.
Always consider the context. While the raw content from ILT sessions is valuable, converting it for e-Learning requires understanding the digital learning environment, user behavior, and tech constraints. Ensure you’re not just transferring but transforming content to suit the new medium. Effective e-Learning is more than content; it’s about the experience.
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Top Tools for Custom e-Learning Development
In the realm of e-Learning, the tool you choose can significantly affect the quality and interactivity of the final product. Each tool has its unique features and strengths. Let’s delve deeper into these tools and understand how each one stands out:
Articulate 360: Rise and Storyline for Custom e-Learning Development
Articulate 360 offers a suite of tools ideal for creating engaging and visually appealing courses. It’s especially known for its ability to incorporate rich animations and interactivity.
Strengths:
- The suite includes tools like Storyline, Rise, and more.
- Excellent for mobile learning.
- Extensive community and library for templates and characters.
While both Articulate Rise and Articulate Rise are part of the Articulate family, Rise is known for its rapid e-Learning development with a responsive design. In contrast, Storyline is ideal for creating custom interactions.
Strengths (Rise):
- Quick and easy course creation.
- Cloud-based, allowing for collaborative development.
Strengths (Storyline):
- Customizable interactions and scenarios.
- Slide-layering feature for complex courses.
TechSmith Camtasia for Custom e-Learning Development
Camtasia is a go-to software for those who need impeccable screen recording capabilities. Its intuitive video editing features make it great for creating tutorial videos or demonstrations.
Strengths:
- High-quality screen recording.
- User-friendly video editing interface.
- Library of assets for enhancing videos.
Adobe Captivate for Custom e-Learning Development
Adobe Captivate stands out for its responsive design capabilities, ensuring that e-Learning content looks good on any device.
Strengths:
- VR and 360° learning experiences.
- Geolocation-based learning.
- Inbuilt assets and characters.
Lectora
Lectora is prized for its powerful scripting capabilities and is ideal for advanced developers who want to push the boundaries of e-Learning interactivity.
Strengths:
- Seamless integration with other tools.
- Advanced scripting and variables for complex courses.
iSpring Suite for Custom e-Learning Development
iSpring is lauded for its ease of use and PowerPoint integration, making it easy for beginners to start with e-Learning development.
Strengths:
- PowerPoint-based course creation.
- Quiz-making capabilities.
Tool Selection Checklist
To help you pick the tool that aligns with your needs, consider this checklist:
Tool Selection Checklist
To help you pick the tool that aligns with your needs, consider this checklist:
| Feature/Requirement | Camtasia | Captivate | Rise | Storyline | Lectora | iSpring |
| Rich Animations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Screen Recording | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Responsive Design | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Rapid Development | ✓ | ✓ | ||||
| Custom Interactions | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Advanced Scripting | ✓ | ✓ | ||||
| Video Editing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| VR/360° Learning | ✓ |
Note: The ticks in the table are indicative and based on the primary features of each tool. Most of these tools are continuously updated with new features, so checking the latest versions and their capabilities is always a good idea.
Choosing an e-Learning tool is akin to picking the right brush for a painting. While each tool can get the job done, the right one can make the process smoother and the outcome more refined.
Disclaimer:
The tools highlighted in this article represent only a selection of the e-Learning development tools available in the market. They are chosen based on popularity and unique features. However, many other tools with different capabilities might suit specific needs. As with any technology purchase, conducting thorough research, exploring demos, and evaluating your organization’s requirements before deciding is essential. Always review the market landscape to choose the most appropriate tool for your instructional design and e-Learning development needs.
Outsourcing Custom E-Learning Development: Why and When to find a reliable e-Learning company?
As organizations continue to adopt e-Learning for their training needs, the question often arises: Should we develop in-house or outsource? Each approach has its merits, but outsourcing often stands out for various reasons:
- Expertise on Tap: E-Learning companies specialize in creating educational content. By outsourcing, you’re not just paying for a service—you’re gaining access to a team of professionals who live and breathe e-Learning. They bring years of experience, tried-and-tested methodologies, and industry-specific knowledge.
- Cost-Efficiency: In-house development can get expensive. It all adds up from hiring permanent instructional designers, graphic artists, and developers to investing in state-of-the-art software licenses. Outsourcing can often deliver the same, if not better, quality at a fraction of the price.
- Scalability: Maybe you need a single course immediately, but what about when you need ten or more? e-Learning companies can scale up their services to match your requirements, ensuring timely delivery even on large projects.
- Staying Updated: The e-Learning industry is dynamic, with new technologies and methodologies emerging regularly. e-Learning companies are always on the cutting edge, ensuring that your content isn’t just relevant today and future-proofed for tomorrow.
- End-to-End Solutions: A reliable e-Learning company won’t just develop content. They will help you analyze training needs, design courses, develop content, implement the training, and even evaluate its effectiveness.
When should you consider outsourcing? Here are some scenarios:
- Lack of In-house Expertise: If your team isn’t versed in instructional design or lacks experience with e-Learning tools, it’s a sign to outsource.
- Tight Deadlines: Need to roll out a course quickly? Outsourcing can speed up the development process.
- Consistent Quality: If you want your e-Learning modules to maintain a consistent quality and tone, outsourcing to a single, trusted company is a good idea.
Consider companies like Check n Click Learning and Technologies. With a track record of serving global clients since 2012, they’re not just vendors but partners in your e-Learning journey. Proficient with tools ranging from Articulate 360 to Captivate, they have the expertise to transform your training vision, however nebulous, into a polished, engaging e-Learning module.
Concluding The Art of Custom E-Learning Development
Custom e-Learning development isn’t merely about transferring content onto a digital platform. It’s the fine art of sculpting bespoke educational experiences that resonate with the learner, keeping them engaged and ensuring the knowledge sticks.
At the heart of this art lies the Instructional Design process. The Instructional Designer is a craftsman, shaping raw information into meaningful, structured, interactive learning experiences. With models like ADDIE, they analyze, design, develop, implement, and evaluate e-Learning courses, ensuring each module is tailored to meet the learner’s needs and the organization’s objectives.
But why is custom e-Learning so sought after?
- Specialized Content Needs: Off-the-shelf courses might not address the intricacies of proprietary software or the unique protocols of a company.
- Branding Requirements: A company’s identity can be woven into the training, making it familiar and aligning with its ethos.
- Unique User Experiences: From gamified modules to VR simulations, customization pushes the boundaries of traditional learning.
Transitioning from conventional instructor-led training (ILT) to e-Learning can be tempting for its perceived ease, but it comes with its pitfalls. While ILT provides a wealth of reference material, translating it into a digital format requires a fresh perspective. Factors like loss of human interaction, content overload, and tech constraints must be addressed proactively.
Choosing the right tools is equally vital. Whether it’s the rich animations of Articulate 360, the screen recording capabilities of Camtasia, or the responsive design of Captivate, the tool can make or break the learning experience. But remember, the landscape of e-Learning tools is vast, and selecting one based on individual project needs is crucial.
In conclusion, custom e-Learning development is a journey that promises rewarding outcomes when navigated with expertise, the right strategy, and the best tools.
