Top 10 eLearning Authoring Tools
Discover the best authoring tools to create engaging, effective, and professional eLearning content. Find your perfect digital workbench for crafting exceptional learning experiences.
Strengths
Amazing visual creations with stunning interactive content
Rich gamification & interactivity widgets
No-code simplicity
Vast template gallery & vibrant community
Embeddable & integrable content
Real-time collaboration
AI-powered creation assistance
Dynamic SCORM and LTI export compatibility
Modern, unlike most of its competitors
Considerations
Limited offline functionality
Learning curve for advanced features
Internet dependency for editing
Custom JavaScript variables or scripting cannot be added
Genially is trusted by leading L&D teams
Strengths
Storyline 360 power for complex interactions and simulations
Rise 360 simplicity & responsiveness for quick development
Review 360 for collaborative feedback cycles
Extensive content library with stock assets
Considerations
Steep learning curve, especially for Storyline
High cost with premium subscription pricing
Storyline is Windows-only desktop application
Rise has customization limitations
It's a basic editing tool with limited features
3. Adobe Captivate
A long-standing player from Adobe, Captivate is a powerful desktop authoring tool known for its robust features, particularly in software simulations and virtual reality projects.
Strengths
Excellent software simulations and demonstrations
Strong PowerPoint integration capabilities
VR & 360° learning experience features
Advanced actions & variables for complex interactions
Considerations
Very steep learning curve with complex interface
Premium pricing similar to Articulate
Interface can feel dated compared to modern alternatives
Resource intensive, demanding on system performance
4. iSpring Suite Max
iSpring Suite integrates directly into PowerPoint, making it a popular choice for those already comfortable with Microsoft's presentation software, extending PowerPoint's capabilities into a full-fledged authoring tool.
Strengths
Familiar PowerPoint interface with reduced learning curve
Quick conversion of existing PowerPoint slides
Robust quiz maker with comprehensive question types
Strong tools for video & audio narration
Considerations
Reliant on PowerPoint and primarily Windows-based
Less design flexibility than standalone authoring tools
Can feel less modern compared to cloud-first platforms
5. Lectora
Lectora has a long history in the eLearning world and is known for its power and accessibility (Section 508 compliance) features. It's available in both desktop and online versions.
Strengths
Strong focus on WCAG and Section 508 compliance
Powerful desktop version with complex interaction capabilities
Good responsive course design (RCD) features
Excellent for text-heavy content and complex navigation
Considerations
Fairly steep learning curve, especially desktop version
Interface can feel dated compared to modern UIs
Higher-end pricing with additional costs
Requires more effort for polished visual design
6. Elucidat
Elucidat is a cloud-based authoring tool designed for large teams and global businesses, focusing on creating high-quality eLearning at scale with strong collaboration and localization features.
Strengths
Excellent scalability & team collaboration features
Strong localization tools for global audiences
Granular user management & role control
Produces fully responsive content
Considerations
Premium pricing positioned for enterprise market
Learning curve for mastering advanced features
May be overkill for simpler content creation needs
7. Easygenerator
As its name suggests, Easygenerator is a cloud-based tool focused on ease of use, enabling subject matter experts (SMEs) to create courses without needing extensive training.
Strengths
Very intuitive and easy to learn interface
Cloud-based with collaborative features
Designed for SME empowerment
Enables rapid development and deployment
Considerations
Less design customization flexibility
Limited advanced features for complex projects
Template-driven approach may limit creative freedom
8. isEazy Author
isEazy Author is a cloud-based authoring tool that aims to simplify the creation of engaging and interactive courses with a focus on modern aesthetics and user experience.
Strengths
User-friendly interface for various skill levels
Good range of interactive elements and games
Visually appealing modern templates
Cloud-based for easy access and collaboration
Considerations
Newer player with growing feature set
May lack granular control for complex scenarios
Scalability for large enterprises needs evaluation
9. Coassemble
Coassemble positions itself as an all-in-one online training platform, combining course authoring with LMS (Learning Management System) functionalities.
Strengths
Integrated LMS for single-platform solution
Intuitive authoring for quick content creation
Especially suited for course creators and training providers
Considerations
Authoring capabilities may lack depth
LMS limitations for sophisticated customization
Less creative freedom in course design
10. Intellum Evolve
Evolve is a cloud-based authoring tool known for producing highly polished, responsive content. It's often favored by organizations looking for premium-quality learning experiences.
Strengths
Creates visually appealing and modern responsive courses
Flexible component-based design approach
Solid range of interactive components
Strong collaboration features for team development
Considerations
Steeper learning curve to master full capabilities
Premium pricing that may not fit all budgets
May require design skills to leverage full potential