Choosing the Right Platform for Creating Online Courses
Creating online courses is a highly effective way to share knowledge and earn an income. However, with so many platforms available, it can be challenging to choose the most suitable one for your needs. In this article, I will share my insights and experiences to help you select the best platform for your online course.
My Top Considerations for Selecting an Online Course Platform
When choosing a platform to create online courses, there are several factors you should consider. These include ease of use, content security, flexibility, and mobile accessibility. Here’s a quick breakdown based on my experience as a solopreneur and freelancer.
Ease of Use
As a solo creator, I value platforms that do not require a steep learning curve. My top priority is to save time, and a platform that is user-friendly and intuitive is crucial. This ensures that I can focus on creating high-quality content without wasting time struggling with the platform's interface.
Content Security
Protecting your premium content is essential, especially if you are sharing valuable materials like video lessons or PDFs. I look for platforms that offer robust security features to prevent unauthorized downloads or sharing. Strong encryption and copy protection are critical in this area.
Flexibility and Features
Each course has unique requirements, and the platform should provide the necessary tools to meet those needs. Whether you need to add quizzes, set up a drip feed, or create a modular structure, the platform should support these functionalities.
Mobile Accessibility
Being able to manage and create content on the go is a significant advantage. Many creators often find themselves working in various locations, and having a platform that is accessible via mobile devices is a must-have.
Platforms I’ve Used
Over the years, I have tried several platforms to create my online courses. Here are some of the ones that have performed well for me:
Teachable and Thinkific
Teachable and Thinkific are great for creating full-scale courses with advanced customization options and comprehensive marketing tools. These platforms are ideal for those who need to build a robust course programmatically. Both offer a wide range of features such as email marketing, analytics, and payment gateways, making them excellent for comprehensive course creation.
Kajabi
Kajabi stands out as an all-in-one solution that integrates marketing automation, email campaigns, and course hosting. It is perfect for businesses looking for a comprehensive platform to manage their entire marketing and course delivery needs.
Taylora
Taylora is a more recent addition to my tools and stands out for its simplicity and strong focus on content security. It’s ideal for sharing or selling video lessons, PDFs, and other digital content quickly without the complexity of larger platforms. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a top choice for creators who want a straightforward experience.
Why I Use Multiple Platforms
While some platforms excel in certain areas, others may be better suited for different tasks. For larger, more intricate course setups, I opt for Teachable or Kajabi. However, when I need something fast, secure, and mobile-friendly, Taylora has become my go-to. This approach allows me to leverage the strengths of each platform depending on the requirements of my project.
It's essential to test different platforms to find the one that fits your workflow best. Most platforms offer free trials, so you can explore their features and determine which one works best for you.
Additional Considerations
When choosing an online course platform, it's also important to consider how you will manage your course’s drip feed, membership, self-guided learning, and the option for a community. Stan Store Pro is a useful option if you already have a platform for digital sales, while Teachable, Thinkific, and Skool all offer free startup options. Kajabi is popular for larger courses but comes with a higher price tag.
In conclusion, the "best" platform will depend on your specific goals and needs. Testing different platforms and understanding their features will help you make an informed decision. Happy course creation!