23 Best Learning Design Software Reviewed For 2025
10 The Best Learning Design Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 23 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Only those of us who have worked in instructional design truly understand how difficult it is to teach humans new things, which is why I'm extremely particular with my learning design software. It's hard enough to balance all the aspects that make training content effective, so the tools you use should make your design process as efficient as possible.
Speaking of learning new things, I've taken it upon myself to train myself on dozens of learning design software tools and narrow down the very best options. Here are the tools that earned an A+ from me, with all the relevant details you need to contrast and compare them all!
What Is Learning Design Software?
Learning design software (also known as instructional design software, or IDS) is a digital tool that facilitates the creation and delivery of digital learning experiences. Often used by educators, instructional designers, and corporate trainers, it supports the production of structured eLearning courses, interactive multimedia content, and comprehensive knowledge bases.
Important features of learning design software include:
- Gamification elements
- Customizability
- Content libraries
- Tutorial builders
- Interactive assessment builders
- Lesson presentations
- Video integration
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for creating interactive, multimodal eLearning content | 14-day free trial | From $770/author/year | Website | |
| 2 | Best for collaborative course design with a cloud-based platform | Free demo available | $1,200/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 3 | Best for streamlining content creation with robust authoring tools | Free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 4 | Best for creating responsive, multi-device learning | Free demo available | Free (open-source) | Website | |
| 5 | Best for creating interactive eLearning content | 30-day free trial | $33.99/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 6 | Best for its rapid eLearning development feature | 30-day free trial | from $75/user/month (billed annually). | Website | |
| 7 | Best for all-in-one eLearning course development | 30-day free trial | From $1499 /user/year | Website | |
| 8 | Best for boosting productivity with on-demand training capabilities | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for creating knowledge bases and user manuals | 30-day free trial | $29.99/user/month. | Website | |
| 10 | Best for creating immersive learning experiences | 30-day free trial | From $117 /month (annual billing) | Website |
Overviews Of The 12 Best Learning Design Software
Best for creating interactive, multimodal eLearning content
iSpring Suite is an authoring tool that works directly in MS PowerPoint. It provides a complete set of tools for creating a variety of eLearning contents, such as slide courses, video lectures, quizzes, and even role-play simulations.
Why I picked iSpring Suite: I chose iSpring Suite for its low learning curve and the ability to create interactive courses quickly. Plus, its adaptive player makes content look good on a variety of devices and screen sizes. The tool also includes a built-in content library with 90,000+ ready-made assets, such as locations, characters, icons, and course templates that may accelerate the authoring process.
Standout Features & Integrations
iSpring Suite's standout feature is the ability to convert presentations to SCORM files. Simply put, you can open existing slides, enhance them with quizzes and other content, and get a ready-to-go SCORM course in seconds. Another great feature is the built-in character builder, which allows you to create unique, custom characters on your own without the help of a graphic designer.
iSpring Suite integrates with Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Salesforce, Bitrix24, Shopify, Microsoft Outlook, PowerBI, BambooHr, OrangeHRM, and Tilda Publishing.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Built-in AI assistant that speeds up writing, editing, and formatting
- Real-time collaboration and teamwork
- Responsive technical support
Cons:
- Lacks some compatibility with Mac
- Can be difficult to set up
- Limited graphics compared to competitors
Elucidat
Best for collaborative course design with a cloud-based platform
Elucidat stands out as a cloud-based e-learning authoring tool that enables organizations to design high-quality digital learning materials collaboratively. The solution offers a host of robust features designed to assist the rapid development and delivery of mobile-friendly, interactive e-learning content.
Why I Picked Elucidat: I picked Elucidat because it stands out for its emphasis on collaboration. Its cloud-based platform enables multiple users to work on a project simultaneously, making it ideal for team-oriented environments. This tool makes it onto the 'best for' list because its cloud-based collaborative course design allows for real-time updates, making the course design process more efficient and effective.
Standout Features & Integrations
Elucidat offers a feature called 'Styles' that allows users to apply a consistent design across all pages of a course, which helps in maintaining brand consistency. Additionally, it provides impressive integrations, notably with learning management systems (LMS) like LearnUpon and TalentLMS, allowing you to smoothly transition your course content into your preferred LMS.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface with no programming knowledge required
- Cloud-based for ease of access from any device
- Collaboration-friendly with real-time updates
Cons:
- Users may experience a learning curve due to a wide range of features
- Lacks some advanced customization features
- The high cost may not be affordable for small businesses
Best for streamlining content creation with robust authoring tools
DominKnow is a highly versatile eLearning tool designed to simplify the process of content creation. With a range of authoring features at its core, it allows you to create, share, reuse, and collaborate on courses and learning materials in a streamlined way, making it especially effective for those looking to optimize their content creation process.
Why I picked DominKnow: I chose DominKnow for its ability to transform the eLearning landscape by offering a comprehensive suite of robust authoring tools. Compared to other learning design software, DominKnow stands out for its ability to simplify content creation, turning complex tasks into manageable ones. That's why I believe it's best for streamlining content creation.
Standout Features & Integrations
DominKnow boasts a powerful suite of features including content management, responsive course design, and collaborative authoring. These capabilities ensure collaboration and consistency across all courses. Key integrations include Learning Management Systems (LMS) like Moodle and Canvas, and other platforms like xAPI and SCORM for tracking learner's progress.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Enables collaboration on course creation
- Strong integration with various LMS platforms
- Comprehensive authoring capabilities
Cons:
- Annual billing can be a commitment for some
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Higher price point compared to other options
Adapt Learning is an open-source eLearning authoring tool that specializes in creating responsive and adaptive eLearning content. Its focus is on delivering the same learning experience across all devices, which makes it the perfect tool for creating learning content intended for multiple devices.
Why I picked Adapt Learning: Adapt Learning made my list because of its unique approach to responsive design. Unlike many other tools that simply adjust content to fit different screens, Adapt Learning truly creates a learning experience that's optimized for any device.
This made it stand out in my comparisons. In my opinion, it's the best tool for creating responsive, multi-device learning, as it enables content to truly adapt to the learner's device for an optimal learning experience.
Standout Features & Integrations
Adapt Learning's primary feature is its ability to create truly responsive and adaptive eLearning content that provides a consistent learning experience across multiple devices. It also has an extensive range of themes and plugins to tailor learning to specific needs. As for integrations, Adapt Learning is built to support SCORM, xAPI, and AICC, making it easy to integrate with various Learning Management Systems.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive range of themes and plugins for customization
- Open-source with an active community for support and updates
- Truly responsive and adaptive content for a consistent multi-device learning experience
Cons:
- Might not be the best option for those looking for out-of-the-box solutions without customization needs
- Potential hidden costs with hosting, customization, or support
- May require technical knowledge to use and customize
Adobe Captivate is a powerful eLearning authoring tool known for its ability to create dynamic, interactive eLearning content. It allows developers to craft unique, engaging digital learning experiences, fitting perfectly with its reputation as the ideal tool for interactive eLearning content creation.
Why I picked Adobe Captivate: I chose Adobe Captivate for its robust capabilities in creating highly interactive eLearning content. It offers a level of interactivity that many other tools lack, allowing course designers to engage learners more effectively. This high degree of customization and interaction is why I determined Adobe Captivate to be the best tool for interactive eLearning content creation.
Standout Features & Integrations
Adobe Captivate features include responsive course design, converting PowerPoint to eLearning, and advanced quizzing scenarios. It integrates with Adobe Creative Cloud, which offers additional resources for content creation, as well as with major Learning Management Systems (LMS) for content delivery.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Features for converting PowerPoint presentations to eLearning courses
- Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud and various LMS platforms
- Advanced interactive content creation capabilities
Cons:
- The complexity of the tool may lead to a steeper learning curve
- The pricing may be high for individuals or small organizations
- The software can be complex for beginners
Lectora is a comprehensive eLearning development tool that focuses on swift and efficient course creation. Its powerful suite of features empowers users to develop interactive, professional-level eLearning content swiftly, perfectly aligning with the needs of high-paced learning environments.
Why I picked Lectora: Lectora stood out to me when selecting among many learning design software due to its emphasis on rapid eLearning development. It shines uniquely in its ability to facilitate the swift creation of interactive learning experiences.
Given its commitment to fast-paced learning content creation, I determined Lectora to be the best for rapid eLearning development.
Standout Features & Integrations
Lectora brings a host of useful features to the table, including customizable templates, an intuitive user interface, and tools for developing responsive and accessible content.
It offers integration with various LMS platforms, such as Moodle, Blackboard, and Canvas, along with other tools like Tin Can API and SCORM for content tracking.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable templates for versatile course creation
- Easy integration with popular LMS platforms
- Rapid eLearning development capability
Cons:
- No monthly billing option, only annual plans are available
- Requires a learning curve to maximize all its features
- Pricing can be a barrier for small organizations
Articulate 360 is an extensive eLearning tool that offers a variety of features for comprehensive course creation. It includes everything from an authoring tool to a library of course assets, making it the go-to solution for all-in-one eLearning course development.
Why I picked Articulate 360: I selected Articulate 360 for its breadth of features and capabilities that support all phases of course development. Its uniqueness lies in its suite of integrated apps and resources, providing an all-encompassing platform for course creation.
Given these reasons, I judge it as the best fit for those seeking an all-in-one solution for eLearning course development.
Standout Features & Integrations
Articulate 360 offers several crucial features such as Storyline 360 for custom course creation, Rise 360 for web-responsive courses, and a vast asset library with millions of images, videos, and templates. The platform integrates well with LMSs, with support for SCORM, AICC, and xAPI, enabling smooth deployment of courses.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration with most LMS platforms
- Extensive asset library with customizable templates
- Comprehensive tool suite for full-course development
Cons:
- Relatively steep learning curve for utilizing the full feature set
- Cost could be a barrier for individuals or smaller organizations
- Might be overwhelming for users seeking simple solutions
Brainshark offers an innovative platform geared toward enhancing learning and productivity through its on-demand training capabilities. Its suite of tools and features makes it possible to create, distribute, and track content, aligning well with the need for businesses to boost productivity and training efficiency.
Why I picked Brainshark: I selected Brainshark for its ability to elevate the traditional learning experience with an emphasis on on-demand training. In comparing various platforms, I judged Brainshark to have the most effective features for enabling flexible and accessible training modules. This is why I firmly believe Brainshark is best for boosting productivity by offering unparalleled on-demand training capabilities.
Standout Features & Integrations
Brainshark provides a wealth of features, including content authoring, coaching, and analytics that empower organizations to conduct training when it's most needed. Its integration with prominent platforms like Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, and Seismic makes it versatile and adaptable to different business environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Rich analytics and reporting capabilities
- Integration with major CRM systems
- On-demand training features
Cons:
- Customization options may be limited for specific use cases
- May require time for user orientation
- Additional base fee for usage
Adobe RoboHelp is a professional authoring tool ideal for developing help systems, e-learning content, knowledge bases, and more. It combines a rich feature set with an intuitive user interface to enable the creation of various types of informative content, making it the perfect choice for knowledge bases and user manuals.
Why I picked Adobe RoboHelp: In my quest for the best learning design software, Adobe RoboHelp stood out because of its specific strength in creating knowledge bases and user manuals. It brings a blend of functionalities that precisely cater to these needs, which many others in the market don't specialize in. Hence, I chose RoboHelp as the best tool for creating knowledge bases and user manuals.
Standout Features & Integrations
Adobe RoboHelp offers features like a WYSIWYG HTML editor, single sourcing, multilingual output, and content management. It can integrate with Adobe Captivate to import simulations and demos, and other Adobe Creative Cloud tools for improved multimedia capabilities.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multilingual content output
- Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud
- Robust features for creating knowledge bases and user manuals
Cons:
- Limited integrations beyond Adobe's own software ecosystem
- It has a learning curve for beginners
- Pricing might be steep for smaller organizations
Lectora Inspire is a powerful eLearning authoring tool that excels in crafting immersive and interactive learning experiences. Its advanced features facilitate the creation of unique and captivating content, aligning it with the purpose of engaging learners deeply.
Why I picked Lectora Inspire: When selecting tools for immersive learning experiences, I found Lectora Inspire a standout. Its capabilities go beyond basic authoring, offering features that help in designing immersive, interactive, and scenario-based learning modules. I believe it is the best for crafting engaging and immersive eLearning content, as it is robust and feature-rich, allowing for deep learner engagement.
Standout Features & Integrations
Lectora Inspire offers a variety of engaging elements such as branching scenarios, quizzes, interactive videos, and augmented reality experiences. These make it possible to create immersive and interactive content.
As for integrations, Lectora Inspire supports SCORM, AICC, and xAPI, and it can be integrated with many Learning Management Systems.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good integrations with popular Learning Management Systems
- Supports creating augmented reality experiences
- Robust features for creating immersive and interactive content
Cons:
- Some features might be complex for basic eLearning needs
- Might have a steeper learning curve for new users
- Higher price point than some other tools
Other Notable Learning Design Software
Below is a list of additional learning design software that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 12.
- iSpring Suite 11
For PowerPoint-based course authoring and LMS integration
- dominKnow | ONE
For its versatile eLearning content management system
- Rise
For its user-friendly interface and responsive design
- Whatfix
Good for creating interactive walkthroughs and onboarding materials
- TalentLMS
Good for blended learning and a scalable LMS solution
- Vyond
Good for creating animated videos for eLearning
- Moodle
Good for open-source LMS needs and customization
- LearnDash
Good for integrating eLearning functionality into WordPress sites
- EdApp
Good for microlearning and mobile-first eLearning content creation
- Gomo Learning
Good for designing responsive and adaptive HTML5 eLearning content
- Easygenerator
Good for beginners needing a user-friendly course authoring tool
- Raptivity
Good for interactive content with customizable templates
- Evolve
Good for developing responsive eLearning content with a sleek design
Selection Criteria For Picking the Best Learning Design Software
I've evaluated dozens of eLearning tools with a specific focus on functionality, features, and usability for course creation, course delivery, and learner engagement. The following criteria were instrumental in my decision-making process:
Core Functionality
- Course Creation: The tool should enable you to design, author, and publish engaging online courses.
- Course Delivery: The tool should facilitate the easy distribution of courses to learners, ideally through multiple formats.
- Learner Engagement: The tool should offer features to keep learners engaged, such as quizzes, interactive content, and social learning options.
Key Features
- Integration: The tool should easily integrate with other platforms, such as learning management systems (LMS), HR systems, or websites.
- Reporting: The tool should offer robust reporting features to track learner progress and course effectiveness.
- Mobile Learning: The tool should support mobile learning for access to courses on the go.
- Customization: The tool should allow for customization of course layout, design, and content to align with your brand and specific learning objectives.
Usability
- User Interface: The tool should offer a clean, intuitive interface that makes course creation and management straightforward. For eLearning tools, features such as drag-and-drop course builders, easy-to-use design templates, and interactive content editors are crucial.
- Customer Support: A tool should provide prompt, helpful customer support to address technical issues or queries. This can come in the form of live chat, email support, phone support, or an extensive online knowledge base.
- Onboarding: For more complex eLearning tools, an effective onboarding program or resource library is important to get users up and running quickly. Clear tutorials, how-to guides, or training webinars can significantly enhance the user experience.
How to Choose Learning Design Software
As you're evaluating learning design software options, consider:
- What are your goals with the materials you're creating? -Start by identifying the key objectives your users hope to achieve and determine the assortment of materials you'll need to create to help them get there.
- Who will need to use it? - Evaluate the number of people on your team that will need to use the software, either as an active user or viewer/commenter.
- What other tools does it need to work with? - Determine what tools you're replacing, which tools are staying, and any existing tools you'll need to integrate with (if applicable), such as your learning management system. Decide if your existing tools need to integrate with your new learning design tool.
- What outcomes are important? - Factor in the result that the software needs to deliver to be considered a success. Consider what capability you want to gain, or what you want to improve, and how you will be measuring success. For example, you may need your software to help you track and compare assessment results over time. Keep the outcomes you want front of mind as you’re evaluating different options to prioritize the maximum impact for your team.
- How it would work within your organization?- Do the features and functions of the software align with the goals and requirements of your organization? Are there similarities between the interfaces of the new tool and your current tool that will make it easier for folks on your team to learn how to use it? As with all software tools, the number of features isn't as important as the value of each feature to your organization.
Most Common Questions Regarding Learning Design Software
What are the benefits of using learning design software?
Learning design software provides several benefits including:
- Efficiency: They streamline the process of course creation and delivery, saving you time and effort.
- Engagement: With features such as quizzes, interactive content, and multimedia support, they enhance learner engagement and retention.
- Flexibility: These tools often support mobile learning, enabling learners to access courses anytime, anywhere.
- Integration: Many learning design tools easily integrate with LMS, HR systems, or websites, creating a learning ecosystem.
- Insights: Robust reporting features offer insights into learner progress and course effectiveness, informing future course development strategies.
How much do learning design software tools typically cost?
The pricing for learning design software varies significantly based on the specific features, the number of users, and the level of customer support provided. They usually employ a subscription-based pricing model charged either monthly or annually.
What are the typical pricing models for learning design software?
Most learning design software tools follow a subscription-based pricing model. Some offer tiered pricing, where different levels of functionality and features are available at different price points. Others may charge per user or per course, or provide unlimited access for a flat fee.
What is the typical range of pricing for learning design software?
The pricing for learning design software can range from around $20 per month for basic tools to several hundreds of dollars per month for more comprehensive, enterprise-level solutions.
What are the cheapest and most expensive learning design software?
The least expensive learning design software typically starts from around $20 per month for basic functionality. On the high end, comprehensive solutions with advanced features can cost several hundreds of dollars per month. For instance, Adobe Captivate starts at $33.99 per user per month, while Articulate 360 starts at $999 per user per year (around $83 per user per month).
Are there any free learning design software options?
Yes, there are free options available, like Moodle, which is an open-source learning management system. However, keep in mind that while the software itself may be free, there may be costs associated with hosting, customization, and support. Also, free versions of paid software often come with limitations on features or the number of users or courses.
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Summary
To conclude, the selection of learning design software is a crucial aspect of creating engaging and efficient eLearning courses. The tool you choose should not only be able to deliver your content effectively but also provide additional features such as integration with other systems, user-friendly design, and insightful reporting.
Key Takeaways
- Define Your Needs: The 'best' learning design software is subjective and depends largely on your specific needs and context. Define the core functionality you require, your budget, and your desired level of support before beginning your search.
- Consider Usability and Support: Even the most feature-rich software can fall short if it's not user-friendly or lacks adequate customer support. Consider the learning curve and the level of support provided by the software vendor.
- Evaluate Key Features: Consider the unique selling proposition of each tool. Some excel in interactivity, some in integration, and others in user experience. Identify the features that align best with your eLearning objectives.
By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be well-equipped to choose the learning design software that best fits your needs.
What Next?
To expand your toolkit, you may also want to check out some these awesome instructional design podcasts—because to build great learning products, you'll need great tools and great skills, too!
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