When looking for software for creating online courses, there isn’t one tool that does everything. The tasks are varied and different, as are the tools and software.
To create an online course, you must build stunning graphics, shoot and edit concise videos, and write scripts that change people’s understanding of your topic. And you’ll need to plan and manage the tasks and place all the content into a platform that’s easy for your audience to access.
In this article, you’ll read about 31 different course creation tools and software that can simplify and expedite the course creation process. You won’t need all of these items. Instead, this list is like a buffet where you take what you need.
Let’s dive in.
Content Creation and Design
Online course creation tools center on the design and scripting of your course. This means writing and producing scripts and designing the supporting materials, like handouts, visuals, or templates.
1. Google Docs
This tool’s powerful word-processing function brings it to the top of our list. It’s easy to use and integrates with several add-ons.
Because Google Docs is cloud-based, accessing your documents from any internet-connected device is easy. This also makes it simple to collaborate and share. Simply select the appropriate level of sharing for your document and send a link.
You can use Google Docs to write and edit your scripts, references, and workbooks. You can edit course content before you move it to another program, like Canva.
Google Docs compares favorably to Microsoft Word and doesn’t require a subscription or monthly fee. Instead, it comes with your free Google account.
2. Google Slides
Like Google Docs, Google Slides is free with a Google account. It is equivalent to PowerPoint and easy to use. This is helpful because most course creators use slides as a visual tool when they plan and record their courses.
In addition to using this for presentations, you can use slides like electronic sticky notes because they’re easy to move around. Used this way, you can create a course map that details each lesson’s purpose, content, and outcome.
3. ChatGPT
While many AI tools for course creation are available, ChatGPT continues to rise to the top. This easy-to-use content generator helps you brainstorm ideas, polish your writing, and organize your modules.
There are so many uses for this content creation tool that we’ve provided more than 100 ChatGPT prompts you can use to help you design and develop your course.
This tool is so capable that it practically needs a warning. ChatGPT works ethically as your assistant. However, if you create courses using only the output from ChatGPT, it will simply regurgitate content from the internet. You must add your personality, perspective, and expertise.
The free version of ChatGPT 3.5 is all you really need to generate text. However, if you want advanced features, look at ChatGPT 4.0, which is currently $20/month.
4. Course Authoring Tools
Because corporations need rigorous data on employee training completion, their learning management systems have sophisticated tracking features. These require SCORM compliance.
A regular video course isn’t compatible. Instead, these are created in course authoring tools:
- iSpring is easy to use and compatible with most learning management systems (LMS).
- Captivate is an Adobe product that excels at screen recordings but has a steeper learning curve.
- Articulate 360 is the leader because of its ease of use. It comes with Storyline 360 for computer-delivered courses and Rise 360 for mobile ones.
iSpring and Articulate are PowerPoint-based tools, so you’d need a Microsoft Office 365 subscription and the authoring service subscription. On the other hand, Captivate is a standalone authoring tool.
Course authoring tools are expensive. However, all offer free trials, and iSpring and Articulate offer special pricing for freelancers.
5. Canva
In a few short years, Canva has replaced many of our tools to become a leader in creating visual presentations, graphics, and printed materials. Its integration with a robust and searchable library of license-free images, graphics, and modifiable templates makes this a popular choice.
Its user interface is so simple that there is almost no need for instruction to create what you want. For those who want to learn more about visual design and Canva’s features, they offer their free Design School full of online training tutorials.
Canva offers a free account and provides even more graphics and templates with its Pro account, which costs $12.99/month or $119.99/year.
6. Wobo
Wobo lets you create interactive workbooks. Unlike a static workbook, like one delivered as a PDF, you can add all sorts of interactive elements like video embeds and quizzes.
Your students can fill out the workbook, take notes, and even upload files. You can see their progress and privately communicate with them.
Wobo workbooks are a great supplement to any course, helping actively engage students and reinforce learning. We have a detailed guide on how to create a digital workbook with Wobo.
Wobo costs $39.99/month for its Basic account or $79.99/month for its Pro account.
7. Creative Market
If building a set of slides or workbooks causes anxiety, Creative Market is just what you need.
Creative Market is an online marketplace where talented graphic designers sell fonts, photos, themes, and templates that you can use to differentiate the look of your project.
The search engine is helpful because there are so many creative assets available. Consider adding these descriptors in the search bar:
- Tool: Add the tool you prefer, like PowerPoint, InDesign, or Canva.
- Theme: Tell what look you want to create, like modern, monochromatic, or botanical.
- Use: Include the use for the asset, like a workbook, course landing page, or presentation.
Once you select a desired item, you’ll choose a license type. Pricing varies based on creator and license type. You might snag a workbook for under $20 or purchase a bundle of assets for over $1,000.
Video Creation Tools
Most courses are delivered using video. This makes sense because video can create an emotional connection and stimulate our visual senses.
Here are some tools and software we recommend for producing quality videos.
8. Screencasting Software
Most videos require you to record your screen to show how to do something or to share a presentation. You’ll also need to do editing to drop in a title screen or fix the hesitations and mistakes in your presentation.
Our top two picks for screencasting software are
- ScreenPal: This tool lets you capture your screen, webcam, and audio all in one place. It also has a decent editing suite for post-production work. Plus, it’s easy to use and extremely affordable.
- Camtasia: If you’re looking for more advanced editing features, Camtasia is the way to go. It offers various tools to create and enhance your course videos.
With software like this, you won’t need to be a video professional or waste hours figuring things out to create a polished video you’re proud of.
Be sure to check both of these out to find which serves your needs best. Camtasia’s subscription is $179.88/year, while ScreenPal costs $36/year and even has a free version available.
9. Blue Yeti Microphone
While there are a lot of great microphones in the world, the Blue Yeti Microphone is one of the most popular USB mics because it’s reliable and affordable.
If you have a different microphone and are unsure of the quality, try recording a sample of audio and listening on your best headphones. Make sure that the quality of your recording compares favorably to high-quality recordings available from your favorite news shows or podcasts.
Here’s what you want to listen for:
- Sounds are distinct and easy to understand
- Volume is at an appropriate level
- There is no buzzing, hissing, or humming
- There is no popping with your plosives, like the sounds in d, st, g, or b (a filter can help with this)
10. Logitech Brio 4K HD Webcam
You don’t have to spend a fortune if you don’t already have a great camera. The Logitech Brio 4K HD Webcam is reliable and affordable. It has a built-in microphone, which makes this compact camera great for travel. Still, you’ll often get the highest quality audio using an external microphone.
If you already have a camera, test it to ensure it meets your needs. Run a trial setup with adequate lighting to see if your camera produces a sharp picture.
11. Murf.ai
Murf.ai is a new tool that converts your text into an audio track. There are a few reasons you might consider a service like this:
- You’re worried about your accent
- You want to create a powerful opening sequence
- You want to include skits with diverse voices
- You want to translate your course into a different language
Murf is easy to use, and there are a lot of voices to choose from. The pronunciation of some words still needs to be corrected, and you can adjust this manually.
If you have a project that benefits from AI voiceovers, the pricing at Murf.ai is reasonable.
12. Synthesia
With Synthesia, you can turn your text into an AI video, complete with an AI-generated person and voice. This solution can save a lot of time by helping you quickly produce high-quality learning content.
Synthesia even has the option to replicate a person’s look and voice. An AI stand-in like this can be helpful for someone with an unpredictable schedule, a speech impediment, disability, or a chronic illness.
If you can record your videos, that’s often the best option. But if you have a circumstance that prevents you from getting on camera, Synthesia can make this option accessible.
The price of Synthesia depends on the amount of content you generate. The Starter plan includes 2 hours/year, and the Creator plan has 3 hours/year.
Planning and Project Management
The right tools for organizing a course project can depend on the size of the project and the size of your team. Let’s look at the tools and software that will keep your projects on time.
13. Course Outline Generator
Your course’s project plan depends on a clear outline of the estimated work. And that starts with your course outline. With a clear outline, you can eliminate chaos and scope creep to ensure your production stays on schedule.
Our free Course Outline Generator uses AI to create great course outlines. The article accompanying the course outline generator includes tips to customize the outline for your needs.
The perfect outline gives you the structure of your modules and lessons. This structure makes it easier to list the tasks related to designing, developing, and deploying your course.
14. Course Name Generator
Naming a course can feel more difficult than naming your child. Our free Course Name Generator can help you brainstorm and find that perfect course name.
Check out the accompanying article for tips on determining the right name for your eLearning courses.
15. Google Sheets
Google Sheets was not created as a project management tool, but its simple layout makes it easy to manage projects if you’re doing it on your own or working with a few freelancers.
The key to using Google Sheets to manage your course production is to organize tasks based on your course outline.
You can customize your tasks in the spreadsheet. This one works like this:
- Videos are grouped into a tab so the workflow is defined using the columns.
- Printed deliverables are in a separate tab with a different workflow.
- Deadlines are listed in the column to keep everyone accountable.
- Videos are listed by lesson and by module.
This tracker should be updated regularly and shared in weekly project update meetings.
16. ClickUp
ClickUp’s project management software is a better solution when there are many items to produce, when the team is large and remote, or when you have a lot of clarity about how you want a task completed.
Here are some of ClickUp’s features you can leverage to manage your course project.
- Define your workflows: For example, sequence the tasks for your video courses: write the script, record, edit, and upload.
- Clarify the work in each task: For example, you can include a checklist of all the steps to upload a video into your course platforms.
- Assign the work: You can automate the tasks so that when one person finishes the recording, it automatically notifies the person who needs to edit the video.
ClickUp is free for single users. For teams, the Unlimited Plan is $7/member/month, and their Business plan is $12/member/month.
17. Slack
Slack is an excellent tool for dedicated project-related communication, like posting weekly updates, troubleshooting issues, and answering questions. You can even create project meetings within Slack.
While Slack offers various prices, the free basic plan is generally all that a small team needs.
18. Google Drive
Without a structured drive to contain your course materials, your files can get mismanaged, resulting in wasted time and frustration.
Generally, it helps to have folders for each module of your course. Within each module’s folder, you can create sub-folders for each lesson. Items within these folders include the following:
- Lesson scripts and outlines
- Videos and graphics
- Workbooks, interactive content, and related tools
Here’s what the course material folder looks like for one of the courses I’m currently working on.
Google Drive is free with a Google account and has 15 GB of space. For those who opt into a Google Workspace account, which starts at $6/month, storage increases to 30 GB.
19. Google Keep
Google Keep is an excellent tool for capturing your thoughts and ideas on the go. While there are a lot of note-taking apps, Google Keep is at the top of our list because it’s integrated with all the other Google tools.
Google Keep is free and can be accessed on your computer or phone. It’s simple to add a thought, idea, or link and open it when you’re ready to work on a related task.
Course Hosting and Delivery
Course platforms are the obvious first choices for course delivery, and yet there are a few other ways to deliver your course, depending on your budget and whether your course is still in testing or ready to go live.
So, let’s dive into these.
20. Thinkific
Thinkific sits at the top of our recommended course platforms because it provides the best all-around solution. While there are a lot of reasons to like Thinkific, there are three main factors that make it stand out:
- The platform is easy to use; Setting up your course is intuitive and uncomplicated.
- It comes with powerful features for course creation and student engagement.
- You can start for free and use it as you build and sell your first course.
For more information about the features and setup, check out our complete Thinkific review.
21. Kajabi
We recommend Kajabi because it’s the best all-in-one online course creation platform. Again, Kajabi has excellent course creation tools, including free and branded mobile apps.
Kajabi can also function as your website builder, blogging platform, email tool, funnel builder, and more. So, while it’s pricier than other platforms, it can eliminate the need for multiple tools.
Check out our complete Kajabi review for more information about the features and setup.
22. Circle
The lines are beginning to blur with the rise of courses, online communities, and memberships. Ultimately, this leads to platforms that offer hybrids as they can do more than what they were initially designed for.
Circle is an example of this. Inside Circle communities, you can create discussion posts, full articles, group chats, live events, and even online courses.
Circle is an excellent choice whether you want to build a standalone community or create a community around your course. Check out our complete Circle review to learn more.
23. Facebook Groups
Facebook continues to be an easy place to set up a community to support your courses. Many of your audiences will likely be familiar with using Facebook, so it can be a great way to connect and engage with them.
If you’re considering a Facebook group to create a community for your course, check out our Facebook group name generator and our article on welcoming new members to your Facebook group, which can spark some engagement.
24. Google Meet
Google Meet lets you deliver live content to your audience. This free alternative comes with your Google account and is simple for others to join with a link. Plus, it’s integrated with other Google tools, like Gmail and Google Calendar.
Your free Google account comes with a 60-minute call limit, but if you have a Google Workspace account for your course business, the call limit is 24 hours, and you can access many more features.
While Google Meet is a free tool, many online course creators continue to use Zoom because it’s a reliable tool others are familiar with and integrates with many online tools and course creation software.
The limit on Zoom’s free plan is 40 minutes. So, if you prefer Zoom, you’ll likely need a paid plan starting at $159.90/year.
25. Vimeo
If your course platform doesn’t provide video hosting or its hosting limits are insufficient for your needs, you will need to host videos on video hosting platforms. Vimeo is our recommended solution for that.
Vimeo offers a better experience than free options like YouTube because your audience can access your videos without seeing ads or other video suggestions.
Here are some of the top reasons people choose Vimeo for course and marketing videos:
- Privacy: Make your video public or private, require a password, or restrict downloads.
- Player Settings: Remove the controls and information from the video player.
- Quality Streaming: Audio and video are optimized for the best possible experience.
Vimeo offers four plan options, ranging from free to $65/month. You should check to see which plan is best for your needs.
Miscellaneous Tools
Let’s review some odds and ends. Course creators use these tools and software that don’t fall into a particular category.
26. Mini Course Generator
For the ultra-easy route to your next mini-course, check out Mini Course Generator. This tool will take your course idea and use AI to build a mini-course, including graphics and script. And, of course, you can tweak it to make it exactly what you want.
These minicourses are intended to be lead magnets you can use to attract people who are interested in your course topic and perspective. They can even be used to create microlearning segments within your course.
Mini Course Generator lets you put together three mini-courses at no cost, or you can subscribe to their Premium plan for $15/month and get unlimited mini-courses and advanced features.
27. Acuity Scheduling
Connecting with your ideal clients is one of the most effective ways to help people achieve lasting results. Acuity Scheduling helps make that happen.
Acuity Scheduling lets clients look at your availability and schedule a call. You can use this to set up research calls for your course, or you can use it to facilitate in-depth coaching sessions for those who want to go beyond what your course teaches.
Acuity’s Emerging plan at $20/month is adequate for setting up one-time consultations and interviews. If you want to offer coaching packages, look at the Growth plan at $34/month instead.
28. ConvertKit
An email marketing tool is among the most important for every course creator. You’ll use it to capture leads, keep your audience engaged, and market your offer. You can even create email courses that act as lead magnets.
ConvertKit is our recommended email platform because it is powerful and easy to use. If you need an email service provider or are considering switching from your current one, check out our in-depth review of ConvertKit.
If your list is under 1000, you can get the newsletter features for free, while the email automation features cost $29/month. Keep in mind that these prices scale based on the size of your email list.
29. Google Forms
You can create forms in Google Forms for free with a Google account.
Forms are helpful in several different stages of course building.
- Analysis: Gather data from potential clients before you build your course.
- Personalization: Send questions to newly enrolled students to get to know them better.
- Feedback: At the end of your course, send out a form to discover how you can improve.
Google Forms is easy to set up and share. You can automatically move submitted data into a spreadsheet for further analysis.
While other paid form options can offer even more features, like Jotform, Typeform, or Paperform, Google Forms is a great starting place.
30. Zapier
Zapier is an automation tool that connects multiple software packages. It lets you use an action from one tool or software to trigger an action on another unrelated one.
Here are a few popular ways to use Zapier:
- Share your ideas with both your notes app and your to-do list.
- Send a handwritten thank you card to those who purchase your course.
- Share Google Form responses in your Slack channel.
- Forward your incomplete to-do list on your calendar to the next working day.
31. Upwork
If you need assistance with an aspect of course creation or production that’s causing delays or frustration, you can probably hire someone for a reasonable price and eliminate that task from your to-do list.
Upwork is a marketplace for freelance professionals. Some professionals that make sense for a course can include the following:
- Instructional Designer/Project Manager: Find someone who has worked with your platform, like Thinkific or Kajabi. This helps with the design and planning.
- Video Editor: Find a video professional whose style helps create a connection to your audience.
- Branding Specialist: Find a professional who can assemble a style guide with colors, images, templates, and fonts to create a cohesive look and feel for your course.
- Graphic Designer: If you have an idea for an infographic, process map, or a certificate, a graphic design professional can help. (Supply them with your Style Guide.)
- Platform Specialist: Select an expert in the platform you’re using to upload your course and set up the automation.
- Copywriter: Consider a copywriter if you need help scripting your course videos or writing any email sequences your course may need.
Creating a course involves a lot of skills, and it’s nice to know you don’t have to do it alone.
When hiring an expert, look for someone who’s worked on a similar project, review their portfolio and qualifications, and set up an interview.
Conclusion
Creating a course can be a lot of work, yet new software for creating online training courses continues to emerge that helps us finish the tasks with greater polish and in less time.
Even though it’s tempting to get caught up in the wonder of these incredibly new tools, we must keep our eyes on their purpose. They help us deliver a sense of connection to our audience and build confidence that we can help them bridge the gap from where they are to where they want to be.
Which tool or software are you most excited to try? Was there something missing from our list? Tell us in the comments, as we’d love to hear from you.