Introduction:

When it comes to creating and launching your online course, choosing the right course platform is crucial. It can make or break your success as a course creator. In this blog post, we will explore the key considerations that you should keep in mind when selecting an online course platform. We will dive into the insights shared by James Marland, a course creation expert, as he discusses the crucial factors to consider. Let's begin!

What type of course do I want to publish?

To start off, you need to have a clear understanding of your course requirements. James emphasizes the importance of knowing the type of content you will be offering - whether it's video, audio, text, or a mix. He advises verifying if your chosen platform can handle the specific content types you plan to use. Running into limitations with space or file size can hinder your course creation process. James shares his experience with Squarespace, where video limitations prompted him to explore other options. He then found Kajabi, an all-in-one platform that offers unlimited video and audio capabilities.

Do I need a programming degree to launch my online course? 

Considering the ease of use for your target audience is vital. James suggests considering where your target audience spends their time online and what platforms they are familiar with. The user interface and user experience of the platform should be intuitive, making it easy for your consumers to navigate and engage with your course content. Platforms like Kajabi, Teachable, and Thinkific receive positive recommendations for their user-friendly interfaces.

Will my course platform grow and scale with me?

As a course creator, scalability should be on your radar. You want to ensure that the platform you choose allows for growth and can accommodate a larger number of students and courses. James mentions that while self-programmed platforms like WordPress have no inherent limits, platforms like Kajabi and Teachable have predetermined limits based on your subscription plan. Assessing the number of products, courses, and students allowed by each platform is crucial.

Integration and engagement features also play a significant role. James highlights the importance of assessing whether the platform supports features like quizzes, forms, and assessments. Platforms like Kajabi offer internal integration with quizzes and even enable automatic certificate distribution upon completion.

Is my course platform easy to use?

For those going the DIY route, technical considerations become vital. James advises checking if the platform offers an easy-to-use interface, comprehensive customer support, and user-friendly documentation. Platforms like Kajabi provide weekly webinars, live training sessions, and a responsive support team. Technical considerations also include mobile accessibility. Since mobile devices play a crucial role in accessing and consuming online content, your platform's web page and course materials must be optimized for mobile viewing.

What are the costs and fees associated with my online course?

Considering the financial aspects of the chosen platform is essential. James highlights that different platforms have different fee structures. For instance, Teachable charges lower upfront fees and takes a percentage of your backend revenue. On the other hand, Kajabi charges a higher monthly fee but has no additional charges on the backend. The choice ultimately depends on your business model and revenue projections. Payment processing options, such as PayPal and Stripe, should also be evaluated based on fees and compatibility with your banking needs.

Conclusion:

Selecting the right online course platform is a critical decision that can greatly impact your course creation journey. By thoroughly considering the factors mentioned by James Marland, you can make an informed choice. Remember to evaluate your course requirements, the platform's ease of use, scalability, integration features, technical considerations, and the financial aspects. Whether you choose Kajabi, Teachable, or another platform, ensure that it aligns with your goals as a course creator, empowering you to deliver an exceptional learning experience to your students.

If you have any questions about choosing an online course platform or need further assistance, don't hesitate to get in touch with James at [email protected].

Resources and Links

• Kajabi Course Platform: Learn More (My platform of choice)
• Teachable Course Platform: Learn More (My second choice)

Checklist 

Understanding Your Course Requirements

•  Determine the type of course content: video, audio, text, or a mix
•  Ensure your course platform can support the content format you choose
•  Consider space limitations for videos or other large files

Ease of Use for Consumers

•  Identify your target audience and their preferred platforms.
•  Choose a platform with a user-friendly interface
•  Check for easy navigation and intuitive design

Scalability

•  Determine the maximum number of students and courses your platform can handle
•  Assess the resources available in the base plan and additional plans

Integration and Engagement Features

•  Look for built-in features like quizzes, forms, and community forums
•  Evaluate the availability of assessments and certification options
•  Check if the platform allows for the automatic sending of certificates

Technical Considerations

•  Evaluate the technical requirements and ease-of-use for updating your course
•  Check for customer support and available resources like tutorials and documentation
•  Ensure mobile accessibility and optimization for different devices

Financial Aspects

•  Understand the fee structure: upfront fees, backend fees, or processing fees
•  Assess the payment processing options and their compatibility with your needs
•  Consider the costs and fees associated with different platforms

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