eLearning software is used to rapidly create distance learning modules using any desired mix of text, photographs, illustrations, icons, audio, sound effects, audio narration, music, interactions, diagrams, charts, digital avatars and other advanced media. There are two main, popular and widely known software suites used: Articulate 360 suite and Adobe Captivate suite. These types of software can export training modules that can be used in multiple computer environments including within websites as HTML files, added to learning management systems (LMS's) often as SCORM modules, and as standalone interactive modules stored directly onto a computer.
The types of features offered by these types of software increase every month, on a faster and faster release schedule. The competition between the companies involved is fierce, likely due the fact that companies and individuals often pick one specific app to purchase and learn and rarely switch. The trend nowadays (2021) is to offer multiple solutions for one price. These differentiated solutions often cater to multiple skill levels within the instructional design community. For example, Articulate Rise360 is fast and simple and easy to learn, whereas Articulate Storyline software is complex, fully-features and requires a long learning cure to master.
Many eLearning software companies offer free trials of at least one of the apps within their software suite. It is recommended to try a software before the decision is made to purchase, especially at the enterprise level. It is also recommend to invite a representative from each company to discuss one's particular business situation, to make sure that there won't be any unexpected surprises later. Keep in mind, using the software does not in any way guarantee that the learning modules that are created are effective. It takes a combination of software expertise and proper instructional design methodology to create effective learning interventions. The types of learning able to be created with these types of software are many. They include: presentations, videos, job aids, study guides, eLearning modules, knowledge checks, avatar-guided presentations, animated scenarios, branching learning paths, software simulations and more.
References
Adobe. (n.d.). Articulate 360—One Subscription That Simplifies Every Aspect of Course Development. Adobe Captivate. Retrieved November 4, 2021, from https://articulate.com/360
Articulate Global, LLC. (n.d.). Articulate 360—One Subscription That Simplifies Every Aspect of Course Development. Articulate 360. Retrieved November 4, 2021, from https://articulate.com/360
Elucidat. (2021, October 21). Elearning authoring tool and platform for global business. Retrieved November 4, 2021, from https://www.elucidat.com/