How To Maximize ROI By Evaluating The Image Gallery Of A Rapid eLearning Authoring Tool
A significant amount of your L&D budget may go toward content curation. Purchasing resources for your upcoming online training course to keep employees engaged. However, the right authoring software has everything you need to create stunning resources in-house. Even if you don’t have a vast amount of design experience or a sizable budget. But how do you know which platform is best for your organization? Is there a fool-proof way to size-up the images before making your final decision? These tips can help you evaluate the image gallery of a rapid eLearning authoring tool to get the best Return On your Investment.
1. Free Trials Are Not Optional
Most rapid eLearning authoring tool vendors give you a free trial period or demo beforehand. Take full advantage of this opportunity to evaluate the image gallery and see if it suits your needs. This is also your chance to test out their support services and other aspects of the asset library. Such as multimedia, templates, and themes. Images will only get you so far. You need an authoring tool that offers the total package to maximize your ROI. Get your team involved so that they can offer their perspective based on current projects.
2. Look At The Library With A Specific Use Case In Mind
You probably already have an idea why you’re purchasing a new rapid authoring tool. But specifics are crucial if you want to improve returns and find the best image gallery. What is your intended use case? Do the images support the subject matter and online training objectives? Furthermore, do they align with your business image? Do the models reflect a broad cross-section of your workforce? Or does the image gallery feature the same faces over and again?
3. Consider Content Diversity
I know I just told you to evaluate the library from a use case perspective, but you should also consider future projects. Keep in mind that you must be able to reuse the tool for future projects to stretch your budget. So, consider any and all use cases during the evaluation process. For example, you plan to create a new compliance course next month that needs to include relevant images. Content diversity also applies to image formats. Does the rapid authoring tool image library contain cut-out characters? Are there pictures of practical settings, such as offices and sales floors?
4. Quality Over Quantity
It’s not how many images there are, but the quality of the content. Granted, the rapid authoring software should have an impressive assortment of images to choose from. But all images should be in high resolution to enhance the overall value of your online training course. Employees might frown on blurry pictures that are difficult to see on the PC, let alone small screens.
5. Factor In Content Curation Costs
Some organizations avoid rapid eLearning tools because of the cost. They can’t justify spending money on software with a vast asset library, because they already curate content online. However, you need to consider these costs when making your decision. How much do you spend each year on third-party images for your course designs? Would it be more cost-effective to purchase new authoring software that contains all the images you require? Also, which rapid eLearning tool delivers the best value for money based on the image gallery?
6. Ask Vendors About Asset Library Updates
How often do vendors add new resources? Are all the images already included in the base price, or do you need to pay extra for add-ons and expansions? Ask vendors about their asset libraries and all associated fees. You should also ask about the licenses and intellectual rights for the content they provide. Do they own all the images outright, or are there certain usage limitations you must consider? Schedule a meeting with the vendor to ask all the pertinent questions and inquire about pricing plans. They may be able to customize a package that works best for your budget and includes all the key features.
7. Read Online Reviews To Find The Best Image Galleries
Free trials give you a brief look into the authoring tool image gallery. You’re also able to test out the UI and other selling points firsthand to -hopefully- avoid buyer’s regret. That said, there are some limitations. Most vendors give you 2 to 4 weeks to explore the features, which usually isn’t enough time to evaluate all the assets and functions. On the other hand, a user review may indicate how the tool performs when used extensively, over a long period of time. Look for reviews that focus on library updates, quality of assets, and use case. For instance, the user gives the platform high marks for its impressive selection of safety compliance images. And you need the software for the same training topic. Lastly, make certain the reviews are unbiased and that the source is reliable.
The image gallery isn’t the only selling point you need to address during the vetting process. However, it is one of the most vital, since photos are the most often used in online training design. There’s always a place for images that illustrate the point and engage distracted learners. So, use this guide to evaluate all your options and choose rapid authoring software that’s worth the investment. You can also turn to social media if you need additional recommendations or want to gather feedback from your extended network.
Rapid eLearning Authoring Tools give you the ability to design amazing eLearning content quickly and cost-effectively. But how do you find the software that's a perfect fit for your corporate eLearning initiatives? Read the article 10 Criteria For Choosing The Best Rapid eLearning Authoring Tools and discover the basic criteria that can help you choose the best rapid eLearning authoring tool for your corporate eLearning program.
