Choosing the Best E-Learning Software: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

Selecting the right E Learning Software is a critical decision for any organization aiming to enhance employee training and development programs. The market is saturated with various platforms, tools, and systems, making the selection process seem daunting. To make an informed choice, it’s essential to clearly define your organizational objectives and meticulously evaluate the features and pricing of each e learning software option. This guide offers a detailed comparison of 12 leading corporate e learning platforms currently available, empowering you to identify the perfect fit for your business needs.

Our review process for these 12 top e learning software solutions is based on three key criteria: the quality of learning output, the speed and efficiency of content creation, and the scalability of e learning production.

Continue reading to explore:

Understanding E-Learning Software: More Than Just Authoring Tools

E-learning software is a broad term encompassing various technologies within the digital learning ecosystem. It refers to any software designed to facilitate learning through electronic means. Within this broad category, we find specialized software focusing on different aspects of digital learning. It is important to differentiate between these categories to understand what type of “e learning software” best addresses your specific needs.

E-learning Authoring Tools: These are specifically designed for creating engaging and effective corporate e-learning courses. They provide the functionalities to develop interactive content, assessments, and multimedia elements.
Learning Management Systems (LMS): LMS platforms are used to manage the administrative aspects of e-learning. They automate tasks such as course enrollment, delivery, tracking progress, assessment management, and reporting on learner performance.
Learning Content Management Systems (LCMS): LCMS platforms offer a comprehensive solution for managing the entire lifecycle of learning content. They integrate features for content creation, hosting, management, and delivery. Modern LCMS often incorporate robust authoring capabilities, blurring the lines between LCMS and authoring tools. In many cases, an LCMS can function effectively as both.

For a deeper understanding of the distinctions between these systems, refer to our detailed guide on selecting the best LMS platform.

Why Invest in E-Learning Software? The Benefits for Your Workplace

If you’re questioning whether e-learning software is a necessary investment for your organization, consider these key advantages that demonstrate its value in achieving workplace objectives:

Personalized Learning Experiences: E-learning software allows for the creation of tailored content, adopting a learner-centric approach. This personalization can significantly enhance engagement and knowledge retention, catering to diverse learning styles and needs within your workforce.
Enhanced Team Collaboration: Effective e-learning software facilitates seamless collaboration among content creators, subject matter experts (SMEs), and stakeholders. This collaborative environment streamlines the development process and ensures that diverse perspectives are incorporated into the learning materials.
Efficient Global Deployment and Updates: E-learning courses created with robust software can be easily deployed across multiple locations and quickly updated to reflect new regulations or company policies. This agility is crucial for maintaining compliance and ensuring consistent training across a dispersed workforce.
Data-Driven Course Improvement: E-learning software provides valuable data and feedback on course performance. Analyzing this data allows for continuous improvement of learning content, ensuring its effectiveness and relevance over time. This iterative approach is key to optimizing learning outcomes.
Adaptability and Rapid Content Production: E-learning software enables organizations to quickly adapt to evolving business needs and produce supporting digital learning content in a timely manner. This responsiveness is vital in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Key Features to Look For in E-Learning Software

Once you recognize the value of e-learning software, the next step is identifying the features that are most important for your organization. Here are crucial aspects to consider when evaluating different e-learning software options:

User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive interface is paramount for efficient content creation. Software with a steep learning curve can hinder productivity. Look for platforms that offer free trials, allowing you to assess the ease of use in building, sharing, duplicating, and updating content.
Collaboration Capabilities: Effective collaboration is essential for developing high-quality learning courses. Evaluate whether the e-learning software supports simultaneous multi-user access for content creation, review, and editing. Consider the ease of sharing templates and company assets across teams.
Translation and Localization Features: For organizations with a global reach, translation and localization features are indispensable. Determine if the software offers a streamlined translation workflow, ideally with auto-translate functionality. Course variation features are also beneficial for managing localized versions efficiently.
Comprehensive Authoring Toolkit: To create engaging and learner-centric experiences, explore the toolkit’s capabilities for gamification, personalized learning paths, and interactive elements. Review example courses created with the software to gauge the potential quality of content output.
Ready-Made Templates: Professionally designed templates can significantly accelerate course development and ensure instructional design best practices are implemented. Assess the variety and quality of templates offered and how the software facilitates template selection.
Customization Scope: E-learning software varies in the level of customization it allows. Some offer granular control over course layouts, branding, and interactive elements, while others prioritize ease of use with more streamlined customization options. User reviews can provide insights into the balance of customization and complexity.
Multi-Device Compatibility: In today’s mobile-first world, learners expect to access content on any device. Ensure the e-learning software produces content that is fully responsive and functions seamlessly across desktops, tablets, and smartphones. Inquire about any additional steps required to optimize the mobile learning experience.

Types of E-Learning Software Solutions

The e-learning software market offers diverse solutions tailored to different needs and technical infrastructures. Understanding these types will help you narrow down your choices:

Cloud-Based E-Learning Software: These online platforms offer flexibility and accessibility, allowing authors to collaborate in real-time and work on content from anywhere with an internet connection. Cloud-based solutions eliminate the need for software installation and ensure that all edits are automatically saved and accessible centrally.
Desktop-Based E-Learning Software: Traditional desktop applications are installed directly on a user’s computer. They often offer powerful features and offline functionality. However, collaboration can be more complex, and updates may require manual installation.
Open-Source E-Learning Software: Open-source platforms provide access to the source code, offering maximum flexibility and customization potential. They are ideal for organizations with in-house development expertise that require highly tailored solutions.
LMS Integrated Authoring Tools: Some Learning Management Systems include basic authoring tools as part of their package. These tools are typically user-friendly but may offer limited features and customization compared to dedicated authoring software.
Free E-Learning Software: Free e-learning software options are available, often offering basic functionalities for creating e-learning content without initial cost. However, free tools may have limitations in features, scalability, and support, which can impact the quality and long-term viability of your e-learning initiatives.

Key Criteria for Evaluating E-Learning Software

To effectively compare and select the best e-learning software, focus on these core evaluation criteria:

Quality of E-Learning Output:

Customization Level: The degree to which the software allows for tailoring the visual design and interactive elements of courses to meet specific branding and learning objectives.
Format Variety: The range of content formats and interaction types supported by the software, including video, simulations, gamification, and assessments.
Built-in Design Guidance: Whether the software provides instructional design support, templates based on learning best practices, and features that guide authors in creating effective learning experiences.
Gamification, Personalization, and Social Features: The availability of features that enhance learner engagement through gamification elements, personalized learning paths, and social interaction tools.
Data and Reporting Capabilities: The extent to which the software collects and reports on learner data to measure course effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

Speed and Efficiency of Content Creation:

Rapid Development: How quickly authors can produce high-quality e-learning content optimized for various devices.
Collaboration Features for Streamlining Feedback: Tools and workflows that facilitate efficient review cycles, feedback collection, and iteration during the content development process.
Simultaneous Multi-Authoring: The ability for multiple authors to work on the same project concurrently, enhancing team productivity.
Authoring Experience Level Required: The level of technical expertise and instructional design knowledge needed to effectively use the software. Consider the skill level of your content creation team.
Publishing and Update Speed: The efficiency of publishing courses and making updates, particularly for cloud-based solutions that offer rapid release capabilities.
Translation Workflow and Auto-Translate Features: The presence of features that streamline the translation and localization process, including automated translation options.

Scalability for Growing E-Learning Needs:

Content Reuse and Scalability: How easily content can be reused, copied, and scaled across different courses and projects to maximize efficiency.
Author Control and Management: Features that allow administrators to manage authors, assign roles, and control permissions within the e-learning software.
Cost-Efficiency at Scale: The pricing model and its cost-effectiveness as e-learning production scales up. Consider whether the software offers volume discounts or enterprise pricing options.
Centralized Asset and Branding Management: Features that enable central management of assets and branding elements, ensuring consistency and simplifying updates across all e-learning content.

12 E-Learning Software Solutions to Consider

This review delves into 12 e-learning software examples that are worth considering for your corporate training needs. We will analyze each platform based on the criteria outlined above.

To save time in your software comparison process, download our comprehensive authoring tool comparison template. We’ve pre-filled the Elucidat column to get you started!

Here is a comparison table summarizing the key features of each e-learning software:

E-learning software	Type of solution	Quality of output	Speed	Scalability
1. Elucidat	E-learning authoring platform	High	Fast	High
2. Adobe Captivate	Standalone authoring tool	High	Slow	Low
3. Articulate Storyline	Authoring suite	Medium	Slow	Low
4. Articulate Rise	Online authoring tool	Low	Fast	Medium
5. Gomo	Online authoring tool	Medium	Fast	High
6. Lectora	Standalone authoring tool	Medium	Slow	Medium
7. Adapt	Online authoring tool	Low	Fast	Medium
8. DominKnow	Online authoring tool	High	Average	Medium
9. Easygenerator	Online authoring tool	Medium	Fast	Medium
10. iSpring Suite	Authoring suite	Medium	Average	Medium
11. Evolve	Online authoring tool	Medium	Fast	Medium
12. Camtasia	Video authoring software	Medium	Medium	Low

Detailed Review and Comparison of Top E-Learning Software

1. Elucidat

Elucidat is designed to empower ambitious teams to create high-quality workplace learning at scale. As a fully cloud-based e-learning authoring platform, it enables organizations to streamline their e-learning production without compromising on quality.

Elucidat allows users of all skill levels to create digital learning experiences optimized for any device, from compliance training to product knowledge. It helps reduce costs and improve business performance. Explore e-learning best practices with our guidelines.

Get a quick introduction to Elucidat in this video:

Quality of Output

Elucidat prioritizes high-quality learning experiences for all authors, regardless of their experience level. It offers an extensive library of pre-built templates that enable even novice users to create visually appealing and effective courses easily. For teams seeking design consistency and efficiency, Elucidat’s Guided Authoring feature allows L&D teams to configure and share pre-approved company templates, embedding quality standards across all organizational courses.

The platform provides a wide variety of content types, including branching scenarios and diagnostic quizzes for personalized learning paths. Features like social polling and gamification, along with diverse interaction types, enhance learner engagement. Crucially, all Elucidat courses are automatically optimized for all devices without requiring extra author effort.

Explore inspiring e-learning examples in Elucidat’s showcase.

Speed and Efficiency

While Elucidat offers extensive customization options, it also streamlines content creation with Learning Accelerator. This feature suggests pre-built course templates from a professional library, enabling training production up to 4x faster.

Elucidat’s WYSIWYG (what-you-see-is-what-you-get) interface provides a real-time preview of the course as it’s built. This visual approach, whether using templates or bespoke designs, saves time by reducing trial-and-error edits.

Being cloud-based significantly enhances collaboration. Multiple authors can simultaneously work on the same project. Stakeholders can use the review feature to add comments directly within the authoring tool, streamlining feedback. Course sharing and publishing are simplified via URL, LMS upload, or offline versions. Rapid Release updates allow for instant course modifications without re-uploading.

Scalability

Elucidat is specifically designed to facilitate scalable corporate e-learning production. Authors can easily create and share company templates across teams. The centralized asset library promotes asset sharing and allows for central updates of images and videos.

Customizable user roles and permissions enable broad stakeholder collaboration while maintaining control over content modifications. For global audiences, Auto-Translate instantly translates content into 75 languages. Variations workflow enables simultaneous editing of all translated course versions, simplifying global content management.

Supported E-Learning Formats

Elucidat’s cloud-based platform produces high-quality, SCORM-compliant HTML5 digital learning content. It supports most e-learning formats, advanced xAPI data reporting, and mobile-responsive content, positioning it as a leading SCORM e-learning authoring tool for both Mac and Windows.

Elucidat supports:

HTML5, Video, SCORM (1.2, 2004), xAPI (TinCan)
Windows, Mac OS

Elucidat Strengths

Ready-made templates for 4x faster production
Wide range of interactions and features: rules, branches, badges
Out-of-the-box pages with customization flexibility
User-friendly WYSIWYG interface
Advanced brand management for guideline adherence
Flexible permissions and user roles
Variations management for simplified scaling
Sophisticated translation process
Outstanding support team included in package

Elucidat Weaknesses

Initial time investment to fully utilize tool capabilities
Can appear expensive for low content volume, designed for scaled e-learning production

Best For:

Authors of all skill levels
Large enterprises seeking rapid business impact
Teams needing fast, high-quality e-learning production
Global-scale teamwork
Comprehensive tutorials and user support
Creating learner-centric learning: games, assessments, branching, microlearning

Case Studies and Awards:

Elucidat has received numerous industry awards, including a Brandon Hall Gold Award for Best Advance in Course Authoring.

Clients include leading global brands across finance (Metro Bank, nCino) and retail (Tesco, Benefit, Kingfisher). See full list of Elucidat customer case studies.

2. Adobe Captivate

Adobe Captivate is a desktop application known for advanced authoring, particularly simulations and systems training. However, it has a steep learning curve and limited collaborative features.

Quality of Output

Adobe Captivate is versatile for creating diverse content types, including screen capture videos for system training, personalized learning, and gamified content. Its unique features include 360° image and video support for immersive VR learning experiences. However, some users find Captivate courses to have a dated, PowerPoint-like aesthetic.

Speed and Efficiency

Basic course creation is straightforward with Captivate, using PowerPoint conversion or templates. However, bespoke courses require significant development time and a steep learning curve, especially for mobile optimization. Sharing, review, and editing are time-consuming. Course updates require re-uploading all files to the LMS.

Scalability

As a desktop-based tool, Captivate is not optimized for collaboration or scalable content creation. Sharing themes and master slides is manual and complex. Asset management is decentralized, hindering consistency across projects.

Supported E-Learning Formats

Captivate is a powerful SCORM software, initially desktop-based for Windows, with recent updates adding online aspects and Mac compatibility.

Captivate supports:

HTML5, SCORM, AICC, xAPI (TinCan)
Windows, Mac OS

Captivate Strengths

Capable of complex interactions (with expertise)
VR learning, simulations, gamification, personalized content creation
PowerPoint converter speeds up basic content creation
Strong accessibility features
Authoring interface in seven languages
Integrated Asset Store with free images, themes, templates
Deep Copying feature for rapid object duplication
Relatively affordable

Captivate Weaknesses

Steep learning curve, limited support
Challenging collaboration, review, version control
Mobile optimization is time-consuming
Courses can appear dated
Lengthy update process
No variations functions for managing localized courses
No built-in data collection, requires separate LMS
User-reported crashes and bugs
Cumbersome translation process

Best For:

Experienced authors familiar with PowerPoint
Small authoring teams with limited collaboration needs
Creating games, system training, simple VR simulations

Case Studies & Awards

Adobe Captivate boasts customer success stories from American Airlines and Indiana University.

In-depth comparison of Adobe Captivate and Elucidat.

3. Articulate Storyline 360

Storyline 360, part of the Articulate 360 suite, is a desktop tool using a PowerPoint-style, slide-based approach. It offers high flexibility but has a steep learning curve and collaboration limitations.

Quality of E-Learning Output

Storyline 360 allows for highly customized, engaging content creation for skilled users. It supports screencasts, simulations, branching content, and games. However, mobile optimization is limited; courses resize but are not fully optimized for tablets and smartphones.

Speed and Efficiency

Storyline 360 is complex, potentially limiting authoring efficiency without sufficient training investment. Pre-built templates from the asset library can improve speed. Collaboration and review are inefficient due to its desktop nature. Courses must be published to Articulate’s Review 360 for sharing, and updates are time-consuming.

Scalability

As a desktop tool, Storyline 360 has limited scalability and collaboration. Slide Masters aid large projects, but consistent branding across courses and installations is difficult. There are no features for asset management or course variation management for translations.

Supported E-Learning Formats

Articulate Storyline is a widely used, Windows-based e-learning authoring tool supporting most e-learning formats.

AICC, SCORM, xAPI (TinCan), CMI5
Windows

Storyline Strengths

High flexibility and control over output
Large, active online support community
Versatile for all interaction types, including simulations and games
Relatively easy for PowerPoint-familiar authors
Inbuilt Content Library 360 with free templates and assets
Authoring interface in nine languages

Storyline Weaknesses

Steep learning curve
Content not optimized for mobile, poor for microlearning
Inefficient collaboration and publishing
Requires installation, slow setup
No data collection, requires separate LMS
Poor scalability, no central asset or variation management
Expensive for large author teams and scaled content
Limited translation workflow

Best For:

Experienced authors with time for bespoke content
Organizations with budget for 360 suite benefits
One-off or small programs with infrequent updates
Highly customized content: simulations, games, personalized courses

Case Studies & Awards

Articulate Storyline 360 has case studies from Insperity, Lexis Nexis, and The Global Fund.

In-depth Elucidat vs. Storyline 360 review.

4. Articulate Rise 360

Rise 360, part of Articulate 360, is a web-based authoring tool focused on ease of use and mobile-friendly learning, but with a limited authoring toolkit.

Quality of E-Learning Output

Rise 360 prioritizes ease over customization. It allows quick creation of basic, clean e-learning, but skilled designers may find the flexibility lacking. It offers standard interactions optimized for all devices, but limited gamification and personalization. Courses may become repetitive due to limited visual customization.

Speed and Efficiency

Rise 360 enables rapid creation of simple corporate e-learning. Pre-built templates and a blank project option simplify course building. Its cloud-based nature facilitates real-time multi-author collaboration and streamlined review processes.

Scalability

Rise 360 allows cloning and reusing courses and lessons for scalability. However, branding cannot be locked down account-wide, and there are no variation features for managing translated versions, leading to repetitive work for localization.

Supported E-Learning Formats

Rise 360, an online authoring software, is part of Articulate 360, offering Mac users the option to create simple SCORM-compliant courses.

AICC, SCORM, xAPI (TinCan)
Windows, Mac OS

Rise Strengths

Quick, easy creation of simple, good-looking content
Screen capture for system training
Streamlined updates, collaboration, reviews
Embeddable content from other tools
Inbuilt Content Library 360 for free assets
Interactions automatically optimized for all devices

Rise Weaknesses

Generic, repetitive content
Very limited visual customization
Courses not fully accessible
Poor for global organizations: English-only authoring, no auto-translate
Storage limitations for individual subscribers
No central asset management
No central management of course variations (localizations)

Best For:

Authors with 360 subscription lacking time or Storyline 360 experience
Organizations with basic training needs
Basic, unbranded content
Mobile-first, microlearning experiences

Case Studies and Awards

No specific awards or case studies for Rise 360 found on Articulate’s website.

In-depth software review: Articulate Storyline 360, Rise, Elucidat comparison.

5. Gomo

Gomo is a cloud-based authoring tool for mobile-optimized, web-style content. It excels in collaboration but has authoring restrictions.

Quality of E-Learning Output

Gomo offers a good range of interactions and question types, with quizzes, branching scenarios, and gamification options. Themes allow for modern, branded courses, but full customization is time-consuming, and the two-column layout limits design flexibility.

Speed and Efficiency

Gomo’s drag-and-drop interface is user-friendly, and content adapts to devices automatically. However, unlike competitors, it lacks course templates, and its interface is not fully WYSIWYG, requiring extra previewing and slowing development. Cloud-based collaboration is seamless, with task assignment and live course updates.

Scalability

Scalability is aided by course branding and a central asset library. Gomo’s strength is multi-language support via language ‘layers’ managed centrally. However, storage limits can increase costs with larger content volumes.

Supported E-Learning Formats

Gomo is a cloud-based tool for Windows and Mac, producing HTML5, mobile-first content, and can be released to its own LMS.

HTML5, SCORM, xAPI (TinCan)
Windows, Mac OS

Gomo Strengths

Language ‘layers’ for efficient multi-language courses
Cloud-based collaboration and updates
Extensive toolkit for branching, gamification, system training
Quick basic course creation
Fully responsive courses without extra author effort
Centralized asset management for scalability

Gomo Weaknesses

Layout restrictions limit visual creativity
Extra costs for hosting large content volumes
No screen capture capabilities
Slower authoring due to non-WYSIWYG interface and lack of templates
English-only authoring, no auto-translate
No inbuilt asset library

Best For:

Authors of all levels
Authors with time for development and flexible design needs
Multi-author collaboration
Multi-language corporate e-learning

Case Studies and Awards

Gomo’s case studies include Greene King, Centrica, TDK, and the NHS.

In-depth review: Elucidat as a Gomo Learning alternative.

6. Lectora Online

Lectora Online, by ELB Learning, is a cloud-based authoring tool alongside its desktop version. Powerful but with a steeper learning curve.

Quality of E-Learning Output

Lectora courses can be visually impressive, but require experience. It supports personalized learning via branching, role selectors, and simulations, plus games. A unique “error check” feature helps maintain quality by flagging issues before publishing.

Speed and Efficiency

Despite being WYSIWYG, Lectora’s interface is complex, with numerous layers panels. The learning curve is steep, hindering rapid output. Course Starter templates offer pre-built pages to accelerate development. Cloud-based Lectora Online has a review and comment feature, but sharing and publishing can be cumbersome.

Scalability

Lectora offers a translation workflow but no auto-translate. No course variation management means updates must be made individually to each translated version. Pricing is geared toward individuals and small teams, not scalable, especially with additional storage costs.

Supported E-Learning Formats

Lectora Online is cloud-based, accessible from any OS, and highly customizable with optional programming.

HTML5, xAPI (TinCan), SCORM, AICC
Windows, MAC OS

Lectora Strengths

Free asset library
Gamification, personalized learning, system training capabilities
PowerPoint converter for basic content creation
Unique error check feature
Course templates for rapid content creation
WYSIWYG interface
Authoring in seven languages

Lectora Weaknesses

Convoluted interface, steep learning curve
Clunky review, collaboration, publishing
Extra time for mobile optimization
No central asset or variation management, poor scalability
Content storage limits, increased scaling costs
No built-in data analytics, requires separate LMS
No auto-translate feature

Best For:

Experienced authors with design expertise
Small teams/individuals with time and budget to master the tool
Mobile-friendly content creation
Games, personalized learning, system training
Basic PowerPoint conversions

Case Studies and Awards

Lectora’s awards include a 2020 Silver Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Award and EdTech Breakthrough’s Course Authoring Tool of the Year (2019, 2020). Case studies include work with the NHS.

In-depth Elucidat vs. Lectora Online review.

7. Adapt Learning

Adapt is a free e-learning authoring tool for responsive HTML5 content. It includes the Adapt Framework for developers and the Adapt Authoring Tool for non-coders. Neither hosts content, requiring an LMS.

Quality of E-Learning Output

Adapt Framework enables modern, visually appealing content via themes, but its block-based system can lead to generic-looking courses. Interactions are standard, with advanced features requiring plugins and custom development. Adapt Authoring Tool offers fewer interactions and limited layout control, but ensures mobile responsiveness.

Speed and Efficiency

Adapt Framework is complex, requiring developer expertise and time. No templates or support are provided, making it unsuitable for tight deadlines. Adapt Authoring Tool is easier to use for basic, device-responsive courses via drag-and-drop. However, its non-WYSIWYG nature and lack of templates slow development. Neither tool offers built-in review or translation features, and SCORM is the only publishing option.

Scalability

Adapt Authoring Tool allows course duplication but not content copying between courses, limiting scalability. No course variation features hinder efficient scaling. It offers an organization-wide asset library, but asset organization is inefficient.

Supported E-Learning Formats

Adapt is complex software requiring technical expertise to develop compliant digital learning, including customizable HTML5 content.

HTML5, SCORM
Windows, Mac OS

Adapt Strengths

Free of charge!
Adapt Authoring Tool interface is user-friendly
Content built in Adapt Authoring Tool is automatically device-responsive
Framework allows custom interactions/layouts with developer access
Online community support
Plugins available for framework
Adapt Authoring Tool asset library for image sharing
Both tools continuously developed by community

Adapt Weaknesses

Content can look blocky and generic
Framework requires developer knowledge
Adapt Authoring Tool has limited interactions and customization
Installation can be time-consuming, needs tech support
No templates for rapid authoring
Adapt Authoring Tool is not WYSIWYG, has user experience issues, no autosave or version control
No review or translation features
No dedicated support teams

Best For:

Cost-effective solution
Independent users or small teams with basic course needs (or developer support) seeking free software
Simple courses and microlearning
Customizable HTML5 content

Case Studies and Awards

No recent case studies on the Adapt website. Awards include LearnX awards from 2013-2015.

8. DominKnow ONE

DominKnow ONE combines Claro (traditional authoring) with Flow (responsive authoring and simulation). It offers a vast toolkit and scalability features, but may have a steep learning curve.

Quality of E-Learning Output

DominKnow ONE supports diverse content: linear e-learning, web pages, microlearning, performance support. Its extensive toolkit includes simulations, branching scenarios, interactive video, and gamification. Versatility is a key strength, though it lacks social polling and has layout customization limits.

Speed and Efficiency

Some users report a steep learning curve with DominKnow ONE and Claro interfaces, based on the Microsoft Ribbon. DominKnow offers three adaptive interfaces to address this, but ease of use is debated. It is WYSIWYG and offers templates for quicker starts. Cloud-based collaboration and reviews are streamlined.

Scalability

DominKnow ONE is suitable for scaling. Company templates and central asset library aid consistency and updates. Author roles and permissions help manage teams. However, storage limits may increase costs with more content.

Supported E-Learning Formats

DominKnow is a cloud-based, SCORM-compliant e-learning authoring tool for HTML5 content, primarily for system simulations.

SCORM, xAPI, AICC, PENs, PDF
Windows, Mac OS

DominKnow Strengths

Adjustable WYSIWYG interface for different user types
Streamlined reviews and collaboration
Company templates for scalable development
Templates and stock asset library speed up authoring
Automatic content responsiveness
Mass updates, central asset management for scalability
Gamification, simulations, personalized learning, performance support
PowerPoint converter for basic content creation
Flexible user permissions

DominKnow Weaknesses

Interface not very intuitive
Storage limits
User-reported crashes and slow loading
No auto-translate feature
Customization limitations reported

Best For:

Enterprise organizations with budget and scalability needs
Authors with time to learn the tool
Blended microlearning and performance support with traditional e-learning
Basic PowerPoint conversions
Product simulations, games, scrolling web pages

Case Studies and Awards

DominKnow case studies include HMRC, Boat USA, and Society of Actuaries (SOA). Awards include ‘2020’s Leading E-Learning Authoring Software Provider’ and ‘Best Value of an Authoring Tool’.

9. Easygenerator

Easygenerator is an e-learning platform focused on rapid, straightforward digital learning creation. It lacks content hosting, complicating updates, but offers cloud-based collaboration.

Quality of E-Learning Output

Easygenerator supports video and voiceover recording/editing, suitable for media-rich content. However, design functionality and interactions are limited, lacking gamification and personalization. Bespoke, highly designed courses are not its strength.

Speed and Efficiency

Easygenerator is quick to learn. The Course Builder workflow guides content creation, and templates offer a fast-track approach. However, the interface is not fully WYSIWYG, creating disconnects in interaction previews. Lacking cloud hosting, content updates are cumbersome, requiring downloads and uploads. Cloud-based reviews are available.

Scalability

Easygenerator allows branded themes and template sharing for consistency and scalability. However, it lacks central asset management and variation features for translations. Its auto-translate tool supports 75 languages.

Supported E-Learning Formats

Easygenerator is a simple SCORM-compliant authoring tool for basic HTML5 content.

SCORM, xAPI (TinCan), LTI
Windows, Mac OS

Easygenerator Strengths

Quick, easy creation of simple content via templates and Course Builder
Automatic device responsiveness
Themes and templates for scalable consistency
Seamless cloud-based reviews and collaboration
Built-in data analytics
Auto-translate into 75 languages
Inbuilt stock asset library
Screen capture for system training
User role assignments

Easygenerator Weaknesses

Outputs not learner-centered, no gamification or personalization
Heavily templated, inflexible content
Not fully WYSIWYG, slowing authoring
Cumbersome course updates
No variations manager or central asset management, poor scalability
Limited economy of scale in pricing
User role permissions are not customizable

Best For:

Small teams
Authors of any experience seeking rapid, simple e-learning creation
Multi-language courses
Mobile-friendly, simple courses, including system training

Case Studies and Awards

Easygenerator case studies include Electrolux and AstraZeneca. Recognized by G2, Capterra, eLearning Industry, and Brandon Hall Group.

In-depth Elucidat vs. Easygenerator review.

10. iSpring Suite

iSpring Suite is a desktop-based authoring tool integrating with PowerPoint. Easy for PowerPoint users, but optimized for PC, not Mac.

Quality of E-Learning Output

iSpring Suite adapts PowerPoint content into engaging courses with a clean, professional but PowerPoint-like look. It offers design options, though less innovative than competitors. Interactions include roleplay simulations for branching scenarios. Voice and screen recording are available for videos and screencasts.

Speed and Efficiency

iSpring Suite integrates into PowerPoint and offers templates, easing authoring for PowerPoint users. The learning curve is small. However, previewing is needed to see final course appearance. Mobile optimization requires extra effort. Desktop-based content creation makes sharing, reviewing, and publishing slow.

Scalability

iSpring Suite is not ideal for scaling. While courses can be copied, global branding and central asset management are absent due to its desktop nature. Custom template sharing is not supported.

Supported E-Learning Formats

iSpring is a desktop authoring tool with some online functionality, primarily Windows-based, for importing PowerPoint and creating SCORM-compliant HTML5 content.

HTML5, Video, SCORM, xAPI (TinCan), cmi5
Windows

iSpring Suite Strengths

PowerPoint integration for easy use by PowerPoint users
Video editing for simulation training
Easy roleplay scenario interaction
Inbuilt content library with templates and assets
Text-to-speech features for voiceover narration
Authoring in seven languages

iSpring Suite Weaknesses

Not optimized for Mac users
Requires installation and PowerPoint
Not fully cloud-based, slow collaboration, reviews, updates
Courses not fully mobile-optimized
Dated course look and feel
No auto-translate function
No variations manager or asset management for scaling

Best For:

Windows users with PowerPoint access and experience
Small organizations or solo workers
Simple e-learning courses, including roleplay scenarios
Video learning content, system training

Case Studies and Awards

iSpring Suite case studies include Zoltek, Acer, and Glasgow Caledonian University. Awards include Best Authoring Tools For Game Design And Visual Storytelling (2023) by eLearning Industry.

Head-to-head comparison of iSpring Suite and Elucidat.

11. Evolve

Evolve is an online e-learning authoring tool for novice authors, quick for simple courses but less efficient for bespoke, large-scale projects.

Quality of E-Learning Output

Evolve offers a competitive component range, including standard interactions and unique ones like infographics and social MCQs. It also has system simulations, multiplayer games, and interactive video interactions. Customization is extensive, offering fine design control, but slows development.

Speed and Efficiency

Evolve’s authoring is relatively simple but can take time to master. Its user-friendly, WYSIWYG interface allows drag-and-drop interactions and template use. Content is automatically mobile-optimized. However, complex settings for each element can be overwhelming, and publishing/translating workflows are slower than competitors.

Scalability

For large projects, Evolve allows company-branded templates and themes. A central asset management tool aids asset access and updates. However, it lacks course variation management for translations. English-only authoring and limited user permissions hinder large, complex teams.

Supported E-Learning Formats

Evolve is an online authoring tool for web or offline course release, creating HTML5 content for any device.

HTML5, SCORM 1.2/2004, Web, Offline
Windows

Evolve Strengths

Quick creation of basic courses using templates
WYSIWYG interface, automatic mobile optimization speed authoring
Novel interaction types
Advanced gamification, system simulation, personalized learning support
Simple collaboration with live reviews
Inbuilt asset management
Templates for scalable branding

Evolve Weaknesses

Bespoke content creation is time-consuming
No course variation management or auto-translate
Slow publishing to LMS
Less user permission control than Elucidat
No built-in data analytics
Versioning workflow can lead to content loss
No stock asset library
English-only authoring

Best For:

Small teams with simple design needs OR time for highly customized courses/games
Consistent branding
Rapid basic course creation
Multiplayer games, system training, immersive simulations

Case Studies and Awards

Evolve customer success stories include Pearson Higher Education and Cotton On Group.

Elucidat vs. Evolve comparative blog post.

12. Camtasia

Camtasia is an all-in-one screen recording and video editing software suite. Primarily a video tool, it can export SCORM packages.

Quality of E-Learning Output

Camtasia is excellent for video-based online training, enhancing screen recordings. It records microphone, system audio, camera, and cursor for quality video tutorials. Visual effects, transitions, and annotations can be added. Interactive layers and quizzes can be incorporated, but it’s unsuitable for other content types like games or branching scenarios.

Speed and Efficiency

Camtasia is reportedly easier to use than other video editors. It supports PowerPoint uploads, screen/camera recording, and pre-built video templates. Drag-and-drop editing simplifies video manipulation, though mastering it takes time.

Scalability

Scalability is challenging with video software. Camtasia templates, assets, and themes can be shared, eliminating scratch video creation. However, no central cloud storage, review features, or in-software translation are available.

Supported E-Learning Formats

Camtasia is a video editing suite exportable to most video formats, including SCORM. It does not export to Flash or HTML5.

SCORM 1.2/2004, Web, Offline, MP4, MOV, GIF
Windows

Camtasia Strengths

Excellent screen capture and basic video editing
Good editing control
Asset library with images and animations
Preset and template saving and reuse
PowerPoint integration for rapid video conversion
Locked-in prices for three years

Camtasia Weaknesses

Not for learner-centered experiences like games or branching
Not fully cloud-based, lacking collaboration and review
No translation workflow
Requires installation and significant system resources
Basic output and fewer advanced video editing features
Slow publishing and re-publishing to LMS

Business Use Cases for E-Learning Software

E-learning software has broad applications across various business sectors:

Compliance Training: Financial companies utilize e-learning software for engaging, scalable compliance training, crucial in a rapidly changing regulatory environment.

Retail Training: In the fast-paced retail industry, e-learning software enables efficient training to address evolving customer needs and industry shifts.

Sales Training: Organizations use authoring tools to create and manage customizable, branded sales training programs that improve sales techniques and customer engagement.

Employee Upskilling: E-learning software helps track employee engagement and training impact, supporting goal-oriented skills development programs.

In Conclusion

While many e-learning software solutions share functionalities, your specific needs, especially regarding content quality and production scale, will guide your selection. The best corporate e-learning software for you depends on your unique organizational requirements.

If you prioritize high-quality content at scale, Elucidat is an excellent choice.

To discuss your authoring needs further, book a demo to learn more and get started with a free trial account.

Further Information

For additional guidance in choosing the right e-learning tech stack and strategy, explore these resources:

Overview of tools including LMS platforms: