The following is a set of initial questions for elearning projects that I’ll ask of someone interested in creating a course or program. These are just preliminary questions to see where a client is at in their development of training material and their understanding of online learning.
Is the content completely new? How much already exists? Will additional research need to be done to build out the basic source content?
Will you use a separate Instructional Designer to create instructionally sound content, design course flow and interactivity based on adult learning theory?
Do you have your objectives defined? Do they focus on what you want learners to be able to DO at the end of the course?
Do you have any training or guides currently in place for any of your topics?
Do you have dedicated Subject Matter Experts who are available during the content development phase?
How much learner interactivity do you want?
Do you have existing graphics or will the need to be sourced or created?
Do you need to shoot your own photographs/create your own graphics or can stock images be used?
There are many variables that need to be considered for voice narration, including cost, development time, editing, retakes etc. Do you want to include it or can you leave it out?
If you would like narration, how much voice over would be appropriate?
Do you want to formally assess the learner’s knowledge by scoring knowledge checks and assessments? Do you need to track to scores and send them to your LMS?
Do you want to track learner completing/drop out rate?
Will you use a rapid development tool or will you custom program each course?
What will your review and feedback process with the designer/s be and who will be involved? Does everyone know this process?
Who will manage the process and all the stakeholders?
The answers to these questions will steer the development of a design document, which will outline the look and feel of the course, level and types of interactivity, stakeholders and their responsibilities, development time frame and terms, and define the overall goals of the training course and/or lessons.
