Selecting the right eLearning development company can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. While eLearning offers a powerful way to train employees and boost your bottom line, the vast number of companies vying for your business can be daunting.
The key isn’t just technical expertise, it’s about finding a partner who understands your company culture, learning goals, and target audience.
What Does an eLearning Developer Do?
eLearning developers are instructional designers who specialise in creating effective and engaging online learning experiences. They work closely with clients to understand their training needs, develop content, and choose the right instructional strategies.
Here are 6 key questions to ask before choosing an eLearning development company to ensure they’re the perfect fit for your project:
1. Do they have experience in your industry?
Industry-specific knowledge is a huge advantage when choosing an eLearning development company. Companies with experience in your field will understand the unique challenges and terminology your learners face. They can leverage this knowledge to create eLearning content that resonates with your audience and addresses their specific needs.
For instance, an eLearning development company that specialises in healthcare can create training modules on medical terminology and compliance regulations that would be far more effective than a generic course.
2. Can they showcase a strong portfolio?
A company’s portfolio provides insight into their range of skills. Ask to see examples of eLearning courses they’ve developed for clients in similar industries. This will give you a sense of their design aesthetic, instructional approach, and overall quality.
Look for courses that are visually appealing, well-structured, and incorporate engaging elements like multimedia, interactive activities, and storytelling. Don’t hesitate to ask specific questions about the development process and the results achieved with each project.
3. What Instructional Design Expertise Do They Offer?
The best eLearning development companies employ a team of instructional designers who understand the science of learning. These professionals can translate complex information into engaging, easily digestible content.
Ask about the instructional design models they use and how they ensure learner engagement. Do they conduct needs assessments to understand your learning objectives and target audience? Will they work with you to develop a clear learning path and instructional strategy for your course?
4. What development tools and technologies do they use?
The tools and technologies used by an eLearning development company can significantly impact the final product. While the latest and greatest technology isn’t always necessary, it’s important to ensure it has the capabilities to meet your specific needs.
For example, if you require mobile-friendly eLearning courses, you’ll want to choose a company that uses authoring tools that generate responsive content. Similarly, if accessibility is a concern, ensure they can create courses that comply with WCAG accessibility standards.
5. How do they handle project management and communication?
Clear communication and efficient project management are crucial for a successful eLearning development experience. Enquire about the organisation’s project management methodology. How will they inform you of their progress? Who is the primary point of contact? How often will you receive updates?
It’s also important to understand their communication style. Do they prefer email, phone calls, or project management software? Choose a company whose communication style aligns with yours to ensure a smooth and collaborative working relationship.
6. What’s their pricing model and timeline?
Budget is always a concern, so getting a clear understanding of the company’s pricing model upfront is essential. Do they bill per the hour, as a flat rate, or both? What factors influence their pricing?
Be sure to ask for a detailed breakdown of costs, including any additional fees for things like scriptwriting, voiceover narration, or stock footage.
Similarly, discuss the development timeline. A realistic timeline will help you plan your training rollout and ensure the eLearning course is ready when you need it.
Choosing an eLearning Development Company: The Right Partner for Success
By asking these six key questions, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the right eLearning development company for your needs. Remember, the ideal partner will not only have the technical expertise but also understand your company culture, learning objectives, and target audience.
Look for a company that is passionate about creating engaging learning experiences and is committed to working collaboratively with you to achieve your training goals. With the right partner by your side, eLearning development can be a rewarding investment that empowers your employees and drives business success.
