What Is a Built-In LMS Authoring Tool & Why It Matters

The significance of having a comprehensive authoring tool for creating effective online learning materials cannot be overstated. A tremendous authoring tool has the potential to transform your online course into a learner-centric, user-friendly, and engaging experience. Even inexperienced instructors can improve their content and create an optimal learning experience with the right tools. Instructors must consider how authoring tools can integrate with their Learning Management Systems to ensure a seamless online learning experience.

However, it can be daunting, particularly for subject matter experts who need more expertise in IT solutions and have limited time to learn new software. Fortunately, the Paradiso LMS has a built-in authoring tool to simplify your online instruction. So, let’s delve into how the built-in LMS eLearning authoring tool can streamline your online teaching.

Why do e-learning course designers consider using a built-in LMS authoring tool?

LMSs designed for education often include a built-in authoring tool, making it easier for teachers who are also e-learning course designers and developers to create and deliver online courses. However, it is mainly helpful for blended learning experiences, where online components complement face-to-face instruction.

However, if the core learning experience is entirely online, courses consisting solely of links and PDFs may need more engagement and effectiveness. Paradiso LMS offers powerful and user-friendly authoring features, which have increased the uptake of online and blended learning in universities. Similarly, workplaces with subject matter experts creating courses can benefit from built-in LMS authoring tools.

However, subject matter experts may not consider instructional design principles, potentially compromising the quality of the learning experience. Most teachers and lecturers in schools and universities must add content to courses, but equipping everyone with expensive authoring tools may be challenging. with a built-in LMS authoring Tool, does not require additional costs, and is a widely used alternative.

Let’s discover the difference between built-in LMS Authoring tools Vs. External authoring tools

In today’s digital era, most Learning Management Systems have integrated content authoring features that allow users to write lessons, upload media, and create quizzes, among other things. With technologies, interactive content can also be developed.

Although each LMS has unique capabilities and interfaces, it’s worth examining the advantages and disadvantages of using built-in content creation tools versus external authoring tools. To make an informed decision, the following factors should be considered.

1. eLearning course content designer’s Skill and knowledge
Most higher education institutions rely on the built-in authoring tool capabilities of their LMSs, as instructors develop their course content. As a result, it could be more practical for them to learn external authoring tools.

Similarly, in corporate settings, subject matter experts creating the content need an easy interface to reduce the learning curve and ensure the learner’s experience is appropriate for the content creator’s skill level. If an instructional design or training team is involved, using the best technology possible can enhance the learning experience and overcome the limitations of built-in LMS tools.

2. Emphasize giving a better user experience
External authoring applications are solely designed for authoring, offering a wide range of activities, interactions, and experiences that experienced learning designers can create.

In contrast, the built-in tools of LMSs are merely add-ons to the platform’s core function and are less effective. They prioritize integration and ease of use over providing a suite of features for the learning designer. Using an external authoring application like CogniSpark AI enables the creation of highly interactive, immersive, and engaging courseware, which is impossible at the LMS content-creation level.

3. Always try to update the courses frequently
The built-in tools of LMSs are advantageous for courses that require frequent updates, as changes can be done directly in the LMS. However, this can sometimes lead to version control issues.

For example, if an external authoring tool like CogniSpark AI is used, changes must be made to the source file and then republished and uploaded to the LMS for the change to take effect. Industry-standard authoring tools offer a wide range of capabilities. Still, it’s essential to safeguard source files and all other content like videos, graphics, and storyboards to facilitate easier course maintenance.

What are the benefits of investing in a built-in LMS authoring tool?

Built-in LMS authoring tool claims to provide a comprehensive solution for creating courses, but is it the best choice? While there are some disadvantages, there are also unexpected benefits to consider.

Therefore, it’s essential to explore why all-in-one LMS platforms should be on your list of options. With these platforms, you don’t have to worry about integrating various tools or managing multiple vendors, and they typically have a smoother user experience.

Moreover, all-in-one LMS platforms come with advanced features that offer more flexibility and customization options. So, before you decide, carefully check the pros and cons of both options to determine which fits your needs best.

1. Reduces development time
Using an authoring tool, whether built-in or independent, can significantly accelerate the process of creating course content. These tools typically offer pre-designed templates, shortcuts, and editing features that streamline content development. Combining these features simplifies the creation of course materials even further.

In addition, opting for an authoring program that is integrated with your LMS provides easy access to additional content-generation resources. You can easily access digital documents within the office space with just a single click and adapt them to suit your needs.

2. Minimizes your licensing costs
There are two main ways to deploy software, namely self-hosted and cloud-hosted. While several mixed options are available, such as self-hosted clouds and VPS, acquiring a user license is typically required for any possibility. If you choose a cloud-based system, your subscription fee might include the license fee.

However, regardless of your option, you will require two separate licenses since you need to use both an LMS and an authoring tool. Combining these two pieces of software into one reduces your licensing fee by half, at least in principle. Although some all-in-one LMS platforms may have a higher upfront cost, you should consider the cost savings from not buying third-party authoring tools or paying their renewal fees.

3. Eases distribution process
Built-in LMS Authoring Tool offers a convenient all-in-one solution that can be highly beneficial. With proper configuration, you can perform various tasks within the same platform, including sending emails, receiving memos, clocking in and out, checking your corporate pension, or engaging in instant message conversations with HR. When training materials are created using built-in authoring tools within the LMS, they can easily be shared within the same centralized system. The LMS can also generate individual employee reports and track their performance. Additionally, notifications can be sent to learners needing to remember to complete their training.

4. Simplifies advancements and updates
By opting for an all-in-one LMS, you can avoid the expense of advancements. For example, some vendors charge an additional fee for newer versions that improve efficiency.

However, a built-in LMS authoring tool saves you the hassle and time of updating a separate content creation tool. It also implies that your IT team and LMS administrators will only need to fine-tune the upgraded tool once instead of searching for errors and learning new features for each platform.

What are the built-in authoring features to determine in your next LMS?

An LMS with integrated authoring tools can provide various advantages to your organization. It eliminates the need to search for a different platform to create content and eliminates compatibility issues since the entire eLearning development process uses a single tool.

However, it’s important to note that not all Learning Management Systems that offer a comprehensive package are the same. Before selecting a vendor, it’s crucial to identify the course authoring features you require. Here are the top 7 built-in authoring tool features to consider during the LMS selection process.

1. Built-In Authoring & Content Libraries

An LMS with a built-in authoring tool allows you to create and deploy content directly within the system. This eliminates the need for separate software and ensures content is compatible from the start. Look for systems that also provide pre-built libraries of templates, themes, and images to speed up content creation.

2. Custom Content Uploads

A good LMS should not limit you to its pre-built tools. It should allow you to upload and integrate your own custom-made training content, including interactive elements like simulations and serious games. This gives you the flexibility to use existing resources and repurpose them as needed, making your budget go further.

3. Media Integration

The ability to seamlessly incorporate presentations, PDFs, and videos is a must-have. This feature lets you easily add essential resources that learners can access anytime, anywhere. You can upload downloadable PDFs for offline use or embed videos to create a more engaging and interactive learning environment.

4. Role-Based Task Assignment

An LMS with integrated role assignments allows you to organize tasks based on user responsibilities. This is critical for ensuring that team members only have access to the resources relevant to their roles. This feature applies to both the front-end (assigning courses to specific user groups) and the back-end (restricting admin access to sensitive data).

5. Course Backups

To protect the integrity of your hard work, your LMS should offer robust course backup features. While many systems provide automated, periodic backups, it’s also important to have the option to manually save and restore data. Ensure the vendor offers secure, encrypted remote server backups to protect your information.

6. Live Program Management

An effective LMS should support live programs and events. This is particularly useful for delivering time-sensitive information, like product updates or new regulations. A good system will have authoring tools that facilitate these events and can track sign-ups, support self-registration, and handle online payments if needed.

7. Tailored Learning Curriculums

Look for an LMS that allows you to provide personalized learning paths. This lets corporate learners choose training activities that align with their specific job responsibilities, goals, or areas for improvement. Advanced systems might even automate this by assessing past performance and suggesting appropriate resources. This feature often includes a learning path designer with templates like course maps or catalogs.

Conclusion

Leverage Paradiso LMS’s built-in free eLearning authoring tool—CogniSpark AI, to create engaging content without the hassle of managing multiple software or licenses. With a centralized solution that supports diverse content formats, course creators can streamline their workflow, eliminate complex integrations, and focus entirely on designing impactful learning experiences.

This tool can also help you bring your online course to life, whether it’s a micro-course or a complete degree program, with the inclusion of third-party integrations, digital certificates, and integrated SCORM support. To get started with Paradiso LMS’s built-in eLearning authoring tool, you can sign up for a completely free plan.