If your plan for 2023 is to create awesome SCORM-compliant elearning, you might be wondering what are the best SCORM authoring tools available right now. Whether you’re starting out in course creation or looking for an upgrade, our guide gives you an overview of some of the top SCORM authoring softwares. There are many platforms out there for creating SCORM content, so make sure you choose a SCORM course builder that’s right for you and your team!
What are SCORM authoring tools?
An authoring tool can be used to create and maintain web-based content. It’s created in a standardized course structure that can be exported in several different formats.SCORM stands for Shareable Content Object Reference Model. It means your content can run from any LMS that’s compatible with SCORM. Simply upload your zip package and you’re ready to go.
Want to find out more about SCORM? Check out our blog post: What is SCORM?
Types of SCORM authoring tools
SCORM authoring tools come in all shapes and sizes. There are two key types:
- Cloud-based authoring tools exist entirely online. They’re hosted on an external server. No download and install are needed.
- Desktop authoring tools are installed on your desktop. They may or may not require the Internet to work.
There are pros and cons to both types of SCORM-compliant authoring tools. Here are the things you should keep in mind when choosing the type of SCORM creation tools.
Internet access
Cloud-based SCORM content authoring tools can be accessed anytime, anywhere – as long as you have access to the Internet. From building to publishing, user management to storage – it all happens online. Everything is saved to the cloud. You don’t have to constantly back up your work, and there’s no chance of losing it. Software updates are automatic, so you’ll always work with the latest features and bug fixes.
If you have limited access to the Internet, a desktop SCORM authoring tool might be best for you. As the tool is installed on your device, you can access it wherever you’re working – even without an Internet connection. Everything is stored on your hard-drive. There’s only one copy, so remember to back up your work. You’ll also need to manually check for software updates when you go online.
Ease of use
Cloud-based SCORM authoring tools are generally less complicated than desktop software. Complex layouts and advanced features mean desktop tools can have a steep learning curve.
If you need customized interactions or complicated branding, you may need intensive SCORM training or to hire an expert. Publishing content is time-consuming. Once published, it can also be hard to update.
Cloud-based authoring tools are more user-friendly. An intuitive interface means you can start building content straight away. Sharing, duplicating and updating content is easy with these flexible tools.
Collaboration
If you’re working alone, a desktop SCORM authoring tool might be for you. But even for the smallest project, collaboration is key. It’s likely you’ll need to involve subject matter experts and stakeholders to input on your online training. With a desktop tool, content needs to be created, converted, and published before it can be shared. This can make your feedback process longer and more laborious.
In contrast, collaboration between multiple people is easy with a cloud-based tool. Authors and reviewers can work on the same content at the same time. Effective collaboration speeds up content creation and produces better learning courses.
Find out more about the benefits of a SCORM authoring tool in this case study from a global drug manufacturing company.
Top 13 SCORM elearning authoring tools
Ultimately what LMS authoring tools you choose depends on you and your team’s needs. Are you:
- Building alone or collaborating?
- Keeping it simple or highly customized?
- Using open source SCORM authoring tool community support or intensive training?
- Using a free SCORM authoring tool or bigger budget software?
There’s clearly plenty to consider and lots of SCORM compliant online learning software that will meet your needs. Here’s our guide to the top eight SCORM authoring tools.
1. Elucidat
- Type: Cloud-based
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows / Mac
With Elucidat, you can crowdsource your corporate elearning from hundreds of colleagues. Whatever your level of expertise, creating interactive, mobile-friendly courses is easy. Packed with features and ready-made learning blueprints, you can get up and running fast.
Elucidat is cloud-based. People can work on the same project at the same time, while you stay in control. You’re able to clone your course, so reuse, rebranding and translation are simple. And all without version control, thanks to your master course.
Want to learn more about how Elucidat can help you create SCORM compliant content? Book a demo!
2. Articulate Storyline 360
- Type: Desktop
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows
Articulate Storyline 360 combines a series of interactive slides to create online learning content. If you know your way around PowerPoint, you have a good base knowledge to build on. If you’re experienced, you can use the tool to create customized interactions and bespoke branding options.
It’s a desktop tool, so you’ll find it easier to build content alone. An export feature speeds up localization and translation. But remember to adjust text to fit when you import your new languages.
3. Articulate Rise 360
- Type: Cloud-based
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows
If you’re new to content creation, Articulate Rise 360 is a good place to start. An intuitive interface with ready-to-use templates means you can create basic mobile-friendly online training easily.
It’s cloud-based, so collaboration and review happen in one place. The ability to clone courses means you can speed up the localization and translation process.
Explore how Articulate Storyline, Rise and Elucidat shape up in this comparison and review – and decide which tool is best for you!
4. Adobe Captivate
- Type: Desktop
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows / Mac
Working like PowerPoint presentations, Captivate enables you to produce basic learning content. If you’re more experienced or ready for a bit of a learning curve, you can explore the advanced features. Its screen recorder can be used for systems demos and sandpits. Mobile gestures and geo-location can produce more innovative learning.
Captivate is a desktop app, so collaboration isn’t straightforward. Publishing, sharing, reviewing, updating is time-consuming. Translation can also be laborious.
5. iSpring Suite
- Type: Desktop
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows
The iSpring suite is based on PowerPoint. From simple text and graphics to more complex drag and drop questions, choose from a range of interactions to create responsive elearning courses. With a library of assets available, you have everything you need to produce content quickly.
The iSpring toolkit is desktop-based, so teamworking is inefficient. Reusing learning paths and courses can speed up your process. But if you need to update at scale, having no direct links to courses can cause issues.
See which tool best suits your needs in this full Elucidat vs iSpring Suite comparison and review.
6. Camtasia
- Type: Desktop
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows / Mac
Specializing in screen recordings and video editing, Camtasia can export learning content as a SCORM package. It may not be as powerful as the other tools, but this SCORM content creator is easy to use. Demo a system, record a narration, add in some interactivity – there are lots of excellent options with this tool.
As with other desktop tools, Camtasia is best if you’re working alone.
7. Gomo
- Type: Cloud-based
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows / Mac
Gomo is an authoring tool for mobile-first learning content. Ready-made templates and a quick-start wizard can help you get up to speed. Designed for content developers rather than novices, you may need to hire a specialist if you have grand plans.
It’s a cloud-based app, so collaboration happens in one place. With the option to deliver one course where people select their language, Gomo is worth considering if your organization is international.
Get the full spec on this tool in this Elucidat vs Gomo Learning comparison and review article.
8. Knowbly
- Type: Cloud-based
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows / Mac
Knowbly is a simple but powerful tool for creating mobile-friendly learning content. A standard set of tools helps you build learning packed with interaction.
Knowbly is a cloud-based tool, so has a built-in review and real-time collaboration tool. A centralized source makes localization, translations and updates easier.
9. Adapt
- Type: Desktop
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows, Mac OS
Adapt is a complex online authoring tool that, while relatively easy to use, does require a certain level of technical development expertise in order to create SCORM-compliant online elearning content.
It has an easy-to- manage asset library, a decent range of interactions and assessment features and a good selection of modern, professional content themes to choose from. Publishing SCORM releases is a quick and straightforward download.
10. Lectora Online
- Type: Cloud-based
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows, MAC OS
Lectora is one of the most mature authoring tools on the market. Its younger sibling Lectora Online is a powerful HTML5 cloud-based version of the original tool.
Unlike some of the other tools in the review, it can be more difficult to get to grips with as it is designed with experienced authors in mind. However, once you have mastered it, Lectora Online allows you to build highly-customizable and attractive corporate learning projects. Some of the best features include free access to Elearning Brothers graphics libraries and the online reviewer collaboration tool, which enables multiple stakeholders to edit content and add comments in one place.
11. Easygenerator
- Type: Cloud-based
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows, MAC OS
As the name suggests, Easygenerator is one of the most simple-to-use SCORM authoring tools in this review. It offers reasonable design functionality and interactions but may not be suitable for authors looking to create sophisticated, highly bespoke interactive digital learning.
Easygenerator’s “co-authoring” feature is useful for collaboration between multiple stakeholders, and it has a range of great mobile-friendly responsive design features, making it easy to create multi-device compatible content.
12. DominKnow ONE
- Type: Cloud-based
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows, MAC OS
DominKnow has strong responsive design capabilities and a wide range of themes and templates for you to choose from and make your own.
Despite having a slightly complex interface, it’s generally easy to use and there are lots of useful time-saving features such as the ability to copy courses and have multiple authors collaborate on content in real-time. There is an informative product tour within the tool that provides guidance and tips on how to navigate the tool to help you get up to speed.
13. Evolve
- Type: Desktop
- SCORM support: 1.2 / 2004
- Platform: Windows
One of the best SCORM authoring tools designed for novice authors is Evolve. It allows users to build simple content quickly with a range of intuitive components and pre-built templates.
With Evolve, authors can make changes at scale with just a few clicks and have the option whether to release the courses via web or offline. One of the biggest benefits of creating corporate elearning content in Evolve is that it’s compatible with any platform, device or operating system.
In summary
Whether you’re new to SCORM-compliant authoring software or looking to upgrade your SCORM creator, there’s plenty of software to choose from. You’ve seen our summary of the best SCORM software out there; now, take a look for yourself.
Start creating compliant courses today with the help of SCORM-compliant blueprints. Book a demo of Elucidat and we’ll get your free trial off to a flying start!
FAQs
What are SCORM authoring tools? ›
A SCORM authoring tool is software that allows you to create eLearning content that is compatible with SCORM-compliant LMSs. The most important point is that courses built with these tools can be shared and reused across different training platforms easily.
What is the most popular SCORM version? ›Released in October 2001, SCORM 1.2 became such a lasting de facto standard for eLearning that it's found in over 70% of eLearning content to this day.
Is SCORM going away? ›SCORM is not dead, but it's past its prime.
That's 140 in dog years, or 500 in technology years. The wrinkles have been showing for quite some time.
SCORM 1.2 and SCORM 2004. There are two SCORM versions you can work with: SCORM 1.2 and SCORM 2004.
What are the 3 types of authoring tools? ›Some other type of authoring tools 1. Card or Page based tools 2. Icon based, event driven tools 3. Time based and presentation Tools.
What is replacing SCORM? ›xAPI was created to be the next generation of SCORM but in reality, there are a lot of differences between areas covered by the two specifications.
What is better than SCORM? ›xAPI vs SCORM. As mentioned, xAPI enables you to capture a far richer picture of learning taking place than SCORM.
How can I view a SCORM file without LMS? ›Find the SCORM file on your computer, right-click on it and select Extract All. Then, open the extracted folder and look for any files with the . html extension. Open them one by one in your browser to see what file should be your “landing” point when you upload the entire folder to your website.
What is SCORM stand for? ›SCORM, which stands for Sharable Content Object Reference Model, is a set of technical standards for eLearning software products. SCORM tells programmers how to write their code so that it can “play well” with other eLearning software.
Why SCORM is outdated? ›This happens because new elearning software is built in accordance with contemporary criteria, but SCORM does not gather all the data to match the criteria. So, while using SCORM with a modern course will work, the pairing won't deliver the level of efficiency or aesthetics you want to achieve.
Why is xAPI better than SCORM? ›
When comparing xAPI vs. SCORM, the main difference is that xAPI allows the tracking of learning activity from multiple contexts online and offline, not just on the LMS. xAPI is fast becoming the new industry standard, challenging SCORM for dominance in the e-learning sphere.
Can PowerPoint create SCORM? ›Converting a PowerPoint to SCORM with Adobe Captivate
Adobe's authoring tool option requires a slightly different approach to iSpring, but it's still a very easy route to converting a PowerPoint to a SCORM file. This time you'll be importing the PowerPoint into the authoring tool rather than using PowerPoint itself.
SCORM 2004 (formerly known as SCORM 1.3) is the most recent release. It extends and formalizes the packaging and Run-Time portions of the 1.2 standard, but its key addition is the sequencing and navigation (S&N) specification.
Can you convert PDF to SCORM? ›iSpring Suite allows you to turn PDF files into SCORM e-books with a pageflip effect.
What are the different types of SCORM files? ›There are three existing versions of SCORM: 1.1, 1.2, and 2004. Each version has its own technical features and advantages.
What are the 2 types of authoring tools? ›What are the Types of Authoring Tools? Authoring tools are often categorized into 2 main types: cloud-based and desktop-based.
What is the difference between an LMS and an authoring tool? ›The authoring tool is the program that allows you to create course content while the LMS is a platform where the course content is published for learners to assess it.
What is an example of authoring tool? ›Examples of authoring tools
web page authoring tools (e.g., WYSIWYG HTML editors) software for directly editing source code or markup. software for converting to web content technologies (e.g., "Save as HTML" features in office suites) integrated development environments (e.g., for web application development)
The technical detail of the xAPI spec allows it to capture more and richer data, more reliably than SCORM. A powerful LMS like LearnUpon allows you to automate reports based on the incredibly detailed data xAPI tracks.
Which LMS is SCORM compliant? ›iSpring Learn is a SCORM-compliant solution that supports SCORM 1.2 and SCORM 2004. One of its key benefits in terms of compliance is a fully-integrated authoring tool. It allows you to easily create SCORM content, upload it right to an LMS in a few clicks, and get extended statistics reports.
Is Microsoft Forms SCORM compliant? ›
Forms - Office 365 Course Includes:
SCORM and xAPI compliant.
- Best Overall: Coursera.
- Best for Niche Topics: Udemy.
- Best for Creative Fields: Skillshare.
- Best for Celebrity Lessons: MasterClass.
- Best for STEM: EdX.
- Best for Career Building: Udacity.
- Best for Data Learning: Pluralsight.
- MemberPress. MemberPress is a powerful learning platform designed to be the easiest to set up and start. ...
- LifterLMS. LifterLMS is one of the best WordPress LMS plugins available. ...
- LearnDash. ...
- Tutor LMS. ...
- Sensei LMS. ...
- LearnPress. ...
- Namaste! ...
- MasterStudy LMS.
Blackboard LMS supports SCORM 1.2, SCORM 2004, and IMS and NLN content.
How do I convert HTML to SCORM? ›- Change both <title> tags to whatever course name you want it to be (here, it's called SCORM course).
- List all the resources that your HTML page includes.
To publish a SCORM package you do need a paid account, but the free version lets you build plenty of cool things for your Moodle courses and you can experiment with Lectora's powerful features. Free Lectora Online enables a single author to create some very cool learning modules!
Is Google classroom a SCORM? ›google classroom concept is built on the direct contribution of teachers without the need for a content designer and e-learning authors, so here is the point why google classroom doesn't import SCORM packages. you may unpackage the Scorm content and use each single Sharable Content Object (SCO) in google classroom.
Who created SCORM? ›SCORM was created in the year 2000 by a US Department of Defense organization called ADL. It is now widely adopted and is the de facto industry standard. To date, there are three released versions of SCORM, each building on top of the prior one.
How do I convert a file to SCORM? ›Click File → Publish → Publish to Computer.
Select More → eLearning Output → SCORM and click Publish.
Canvas provides a simple SCORM player that can be used with a variety of SCORM packages. With the Canvas SCORM tool, you can upload SCORM packages into a course and use them as either graded or ungraded assignments.
How do I get rid of SCORM? ›
- Navigate to a course.
- Go to the Content tool.
- Click the blue Upload / Create button.
- Click New SCORM/xAPI Object.
- Find the SCORM package in the list of files.
- Click the circular radio button to the left of the package name.
- Click the 3 dots to the right of the package name.
- Click Delete.
What is the difference between SCORM and HTML5? HTML5 is a web standard that describes a set of rules on how the content is created, organized, and appeared on browsers. Whereas SCORM defines a standard interface between an LMS and content. HTML5 content can be created and exported as a SCORM or non-SCORM file.
How much does xAPI cost? ›As an Open Source specification, xAPI itself is entirely free and open.
Is Captivate SCORM compliant? ›Adobe Captivate works with any Learning Management System (LMS) that are SCORM (1.2 or 2004), xAPI (Tin Can), and AICC-compliant.
What is the difference between xAPI and API? ›Experience API or xAPI is an eLearning standard and the successor of SCORM that represents a format of communication between learning content/LMS and LRS or Learning Record Store. Formerly, it was known as Tin Can API, but now xAPI or Experience API words are used, interchangeably.
How do I create a SCORM file for free? ›- Step 1: Make the course in Powerpoint. ...
- Step 2: Publish it to SCORM. ...
- Step 3: Upload in an LMS of your choice.
SCORM is a slightly dated standard that nevertheless works with mobile devices. However, if you're planning to use it in a mobile-oriented training project, remember a few basic rules: SCORM is not a content format like Flash or HTML5. It doesn't affect how your course looks on the screen.
Is SCORM a software? ›SCORM is a set of technical standards for eLearning products. It provides the communication method and data models that allow eLearning content and LMSs to work together. It tells programmers how to write code so that what they build will “play well” with other eLearning software.
What is SCORM and how does it work? ›SCORM is a set of technical standards for eLearning products. It provides the communication method and data models that allow eLearning content and LMSs to work together. It tells programmers how to write code so that what they build will “play well” with other eLearning software.
What are the types of authoring tools? ›4. What are the Types of Authoring Tools? Authoring tools are often categorized into 2 main types: cloud-based and desktop-based. Cloud-based authoring tools: Also referred to as SaaS (Software as a Service) tools are hosted on the cloud.
What does SCORM mean? ›
SCORM, which stands for Sharable Content Object Reference Model, is a set of technical standards for eLearning software products. SCORM tells programmers how to write their code so that it can “play well” with other eLearning software.
Is Powerpoint an authoring tool? ›POWERPOINT AUTHORING TOOL
As this writing aimed for, Powerpoint's features certainly cater to the ability to provide professional learning content as the other authoring tools in the market. Let's dive into its features in PowerPoint would help you to reach an idea towards your goals.
What are Authoring Tools? Contrary to what the name might imply, authoring tools are not word processors like Google Docs or Microsoft Word.
Is Canva an authoring tool? ›Canva is a graphic design platform that allows users to create social media graphics, presentations, posters and other visual content. Q: Where can I find the Canva button in EdApp? The Canva button can be found in many of our templates in the authoring tool that support images.
What are two basic features in authoring tool? ›Let's take a look at some major authoring tool capabilities and the specific features that they offer: Content authoring. Interactivity.
Is SharePoint an authoring tool? ›The SharePoint page authoring experience has two modes: Edit. Allows page authors to add and configure web parts to add content to a page.
Who invented SCORM? ›SCORM was created in the year 2000 by a US Department of Defense organization called ADL. It is now widely adopted and is the de facto industry standard. To date, there are three released versions of SCORM, each building on top of the prior one.
How do I create a SCORM file in PowerPoint? ›- Open a PPT in iSpring. Download and install iSpring Suite first — it will appear right in your PowerPoint.
- Click Publish. Go to the iSpring Suite tab on the PowerPoint ribbon and hit Publish.
- Select SCORM format. Choose SCORM 1.2 or SCORM 2004 and click Publish — and that's it!