Last Updated: February 29, 2024
E Learning Software Development
Published On: February 26, 2024

Blog Summary: This blog is intended for web developers to provide much-needed help in their journey to develop an robust eLearning software. We have discussed meaning, different types and all necessary steps to build eLearning software. In this detailed guide, we have tried to explain what opportunities an eLearning solution brings to startups businesses.

A few years ago, businesses introduced eLearning solutions for educational institutes to conduct online courses. Since then, it has been a game-changer. The introduction of eLearning software was to empower education institutions.

Currently, educational software and applications have been in higher demand than ever. Even 73% of the majority of students strongly agreed to receive education via online courses, according to the Digital Learning Pulse survey.

This shift towards online education has brought a sea of opportunities for entrepreneurs. A perfect time to make the most of it by developing innovative eLearning software and driving business revenue.

However, developing software products means it needs proper planning, development, and testing as the software doesn’t get ready in one day. Developers may take less time to build if they follow the right steps throughout the process.

Here is a step-by-step guide to kick off the eLearning software development.

What is an eLearning Software?

eLearning software refers to training materials that are digitally available via the internet to your laptop. It is a digital resource for students to study from a remote location and prepare for exams.

Developing software products for eLearning means offering flexibility for students. They can communicate with professors without any personal meetings or asking for printed manuals. The software delivering educational content electronically to the user’s device is called eLearning software.

Using such eLearning, students can participate in online lectures, and quizzes and read the tutorials without wasting a minute. This affordable e-learning solution eliminates the need to travel and saves a lot of time.

Students can concentrate on learning with little to no disruptions and learn things more quickly. Educational organizations make the most of eLearning software to deliver study materials online. This means it makes their learning a breeze.

Key Statistics of eLearning Software Development

eLearning software has made lives easier for those who spend more time and money on exam preparations or theoretical assignments. Below given statistics shows how eLearning trends have grappled the education industry.

  • Global eLearning market is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2032.
  • The eLearning market is likely to grow at 14% CAGR from 2023-32.
  • Post-pandemic, 73% of students are happy to take online classes in the US rather than attaining college lectures.
  • Coursera saw a huge spike of 438% increase in the number of learners in the last 5 years.
  • The market of online university education may reach the volume of $120.70 billion in 2024.

How Does eLearning is a Great Business Solution?

A reliable eLearning Management Solution (eLMS) can help businesses achieve new heights and long-lasting success. Once you develop a wealthy clientele, the business is likely to receive recognition at the global level.

1. Increment in Corporate Productivity

Outsourcing software development for an eLearning project can positively affect business by increasing corporate productivity. This is because employees don’t have in-person meetings. They can contribute more towards business growth, resulting in better productivity.

Additionally, conduct online training programs for new joinees without asking them to be present in the office. Even interact with staff to help them learn new policies or software to use in office hours.

In case anyone wants to rewatch the session, ask them to use online training software for better understanding. Hence, the online learning software has many perks for the corporate sector.

2. Embraced by Schools and Universities

eLearning software has been a boon to the education industry. It assists schools, colleges, or universities to take online classes. Such solutions provide a great help to the students located in remote areas.

They can attain the classes by just using the internet access no matter from where they join the session. Schools and universities can conduct training programs where students can appear in full attendance.

It ensures distance doesn’t be a barrier for students willing to complete their studies. Hence, schools and universities are integrating eLearning software by building an API. In other words, demanding more such solutions from entrepreneurs.

3. Online and Quick Update of Course Content

eLearning solutions can help organizations to quickly update the content in the course. As a business owner, you can fetch the employee or student details using an eLearning software.

Also, if needed make immediate changes in the course content. But it could be time-consuming while using traditional methods. eLearning software empowers professors to determine student’s progress. It provides much-needed assistance to them whenever required.

Professors can check how the designed training material is shaping the students’ future. If there is a need for improvements to old content, they can easily update it and improve engagement.

4. A Great Scientific Revolution for Faster and Efficient Training

eLearning applications have brought a scientific revolution to the way of delivering educational content. This modern-day solution has simplified the learning process to organize training programs.

It minimizes the workload of course designers as they can quickly create the course content and make changes. Such an easy learning solution has been the reason for individuals to receive the proper training in less time.

Thus, boosting their work performance and adapting to the new work culture more effectively. That’s why educational organizations are considering it as a scientific revolution to expand their reach.

Types of eLearning Apps

eLearning is available in many different types to improve the learning experience for viewers. Here are a few types of eLearning. They are worth knowing before starting the process i.e finalizing frameworks for software development

eLearning Software Types

1. Asynchronous eLearning

Asynchronous eLearning refers to the online training program. Here, students can study online courses or watch webinars whenever they wish to. Also, they can review the study materials multiple times and engage in conversation with instructors.

Online quizzes, forums, and recorded videos are examples of Asynchronous eLearning.

2. Synchronous eLearning

Synchronous eLearning does not offer videos for students to watch at their own pace. It is a real-time video that can be accessed from anywhere via the internet.

With synchronous eLearning, students receive real-time feedback while participating in online discussions. The examples of synchronous eLearning are online exams and live presentations.

3. Blended/Hybrid eLearning

A blended or hybrid type of eLearning provides better flexibility. Because it is easier to find study materials in comparison to other types. Using this type of eLearning, learners can finish their assignments online. Simultaneously, participate in lectures and lab sessions.

Flipped classes consisting of recorded videos and online quizzes is the ideal example of blended eLearning.

4. Learning Management System (LMS)

The software involving large-size educational content of online training materials is referred to as the LMS. This type of eLearning is used to centralize data so that it can be accessible to everyone.

It is mainly used by businesses to train new hires or educate clients about products and services.

5. Virtual Classrooms

It is a popular eLearning type for remote learning. It does not require students to attain offline classes or travel from one place to another. Participants can also ask questions during the live sessions and clear their doubts.

Similarly, businesses can conduct online meetings to announce important updates or training sessions. Zoom is the ideal example of a virtual classroom.

6. Simulation Software

This type of eLearning is technology utilized by manufacturing companies or healthcare organizations to mimic realistic scenarios. For instance, they can conduct impromptu sessions for medical checkups or surgery using simulation software.

Young medical professionals can practice their skills by using such eLearning authoring tools.

7. Gamification

It is an online training material consisting of interactive games like leaderboards, quizzes, and points. The use of gamification is to make the educational content more appealing and fun to read for students.

This eLearning platform enhances the learning experience and also boosts retention rates. eLearning apps like Kahoot and Classcraft can be considered as examples of Gamification.

8. Mobile Apps

eLearning through Mobile apps has been the top choice for students to research and study new topics. They can access the entire content on their smartphones without conducting personal meetings with instructors.

It is a convenient eLearning option to explore new study materials on the go. Coursera and Quizlet are popular examples of eLearning mobile apps.

Factors to Keep in Mind While eLearning Software Development

Building an eLearning software needs proper guidance from industry experts. There are multiple factors you need to remember for eLearning software development.

Factors to Consider for eLearning Software Development

1. User Experience (UX)

One of the prominent factors to keep in mind is User Experience (UX). No matter what size of app is, the user interface as well as user experience will be important to capture the user’s attention.

Ask developers to deliver something out of the box to exceed the user’s expectations. It will lead to increased user engagement rate.

2. Compatibility

Prior to the starting of the development process, ask developers to consider basic principles of software developmentFor that, the developing team should make sure the app runs efficiently on both the operating systems. The platform compatibility with different platforms means users can gather materials more easily.

3. Security

As a business owner, you must protect the user data no matter what layer of security required. Since eLearning software has vast students or teachers’ data, the developing team needs to build software security as well.

It prevents the access to any unauthorized user, keeping data safe in the eLearning application. Security concerns are a significant aspect that should not be compromised.

4. Scalability

eLearning software should have the ability to accommodate small or large size content data. Also, the team should ensure it keeps performing at the optimum level regardless of how many users access the app.

When it comes to achieving scalability, cloud software development services can make a real difference. Hence, remember to store important data in the cloud-hosted environment.

5. Analytics

The eLearning software is incomplete without reports and analytics to gauge the performance and usage. It is another thing to keep in mind while developing because you will need user behavior and engagement data after some stages.

These on-demand reports can assist in determining the improvements needed in an eLearning app. Retrieving these data gives a clear idea of features to be added as per the students’ requirements.

Advantages and Disadvantages of eLearning Software Development

Developing an eLearning software can be financially beneficial as it is likely to be more in demand. But, when you have finalized to build an eLearning application, it is recommended to check both benefits and challenges.

Here we have compiled a list that businesses might consider before making further progress:

1. Advantages

  • Improved Training

Not all students can learn things as quickly as possible. Some of them may take extra time to understand new things properly. eLearning software cuts-off the time limit for students. It helps them to focus on a particular subject, in which they need more effort. Similarly, for new employees it offers consistent training to improve their work performance in a minimum time.

  • Cost-effectiveness

eLearning software is not only a great option for studying a new course but also minimizing the cost of software development. It has lower development cost in comparison to other feature-rich mobile apps. The development process may require less developers and resources, which can significantly reduce the overall cost.

  • Flexibility

eLearning software comes with SaaS-like benefits such as better flexibility. This flexibility option allows users to access study materials from any location. Neither eLearning software asks you to participate in one-to-one meetings nor it has limited courses.

Employees have time flexibility to study new things at their own pace. Instead of adopting traditional methods where they used to attain offline classes.

2. Disadvantages

  • Technical Issues

Developing an eLearning software can pose several technical issues like platform compatibility. Post-development an eLearning app may be unable to run efficiently on iOS or Android devices. Such issues need to be eliminated while still being in the development stages.

Or else, it may not be accessible to different users. Developers may come across such issues while creating an eLearning app.

  • Content Management

Managing content on an eLearning platform is another obstacle that may come across while developing an app. This is because handling such a large-size educational content is not that easy.

Such a concern is for developers to build an interface where it is easy to upload the new content. Since it is important to keep the updated content on app, developers must have a plan for seamless content updation.

Steps for eLearning Software Development

Creating an eLearning software needs careful planning followed by robust marketing from expert developers. Here are a few steps that need to be followed in order to develop eLearning software like Udemy and Coursera.

eLearning Software Development Process v2

1. Define the Target Audience

The software development journey starts with determining who will need eLearning applications. Finding the right audience will help a business understand what essential features to be added for better accessibility. Conduct an online survey to know about students’ learning styles and preferences.

Interact with course designers about what difficulties they face while managing the content of software. In this primary stage, find answers to as many as questions for building a user-friendly eLearning app. Some of the below questions you may come across through the development process.

  • How much time do students spend on online learning? 
  • What else do course designers need in updating content on software? 
  • Will it be easier to find training material for users?
  • What features businesses want to train new employees? 

The eLearning software will be widely used by the student community or learning enthusiasts. Young students will be inclined more toward gamification while professionals are likely to consider simulation software. After getting the right audience, think of how you will make their lives easier with an excellent learning experience.

2. Create a Content Strategy

After defining the audience, now is the time to move on to an important part i.e forming a content strategy. Discuss with partners about the diverse content management in the software that should be intriguing to the target audience.

As a part of the content strategy, create a blueprint of eBooks, online courses and simulations to decide on what to be updated on priority. If data contains long topics and videos, first start with them followed by other small podcasts.

Besides, make sure that content is up-to-date along with the superior quality. Otherwise, major organizations may not invest in software and learners may churn out. Content strategy should be made considering future updates to keep the latest information available all the time.

Such easy-to-read content will help viewers achieve their educational goals . Also, increase the retention rate as well.

3. Plan for Budget and Resources

Next crucial step is all about maintaining the resources while keeping an eye on business finances. Develop a detailed plan on what necessary resources you will need and how many things business can afford.

Engaging in such careful planning means to wisely allocate funds to essential development assets instead of overspending them. After all, you need to strike a balance between budget and developing requirements. Also, interact with industry experts to know if there is a need for extra resources.

It will make the task allocation process simpler and the development process can take place without any delay. Other than that, also consider the budget plan for the post-launch of the eLearning app.

This is because marketing techniques will require small to large investments, which should be highlighted in the budget plan. Business owners may require funds for eLearning software maintenance and regular checkups.

4. Find a Developer Team

Now assemble your team with highly skilled developers to build a unique eLearning app for conquering the market. At this point, carefully rope in those members who can handle project complexities. They should focus on frontend and backend development using the latest technologies.

Before hiring them, ask developers about their previous experiences, project works, strengths and weaknesses. Regardless of what effort you make, determining the best minds in the budget price is not an easy task. In such cases, outsourcing dedicated developers is an affordable option.

While choosing a trusted development partner like us, the entire project is in professional hands. We not only provide an eLearning solution but also complete the project at a budgeted price. You are assured that no matter what challenges come across, the hired developers can resolve them with their expertise.

There is no need to worry about post-launch services if you approach a trustworthy product development company as they provide necessary support and maintenance after the development to keep the app up and running.

5. Choose Tech Stack

Once the team is ready, finalize the technology stack for developing eLearning management systems. It is a non-negotiable step where you need to discuss with developers about an eLearning app idea and necessary features to-be added. At this point, languages, frameworks and libraries play a pivotal role in the development journey.

Languages like JavaScript, HTML, CSS are the backbone of the eLearning software that makes content more appealing. Similarly, libraries can bring many unique templates to enhance the overall look of eLearning software. Whereas, frameworks like Angular or React can be used to achieve consistency and minimum load times of the web app.

As far as technology stack is concerned, decide which cloud services, APIs, databases and payment gateway will be in use. These technology aspects will help developers add core functionality and other features.

Therefore, considering all these factors before the beginning of the development is recommended. If needed, seek expert advice on gathering technology stack. Eventually, helping developers to worry-free make the eLearning software ready.

6. Platform Design

Next comes platform design that takes the eLearning experience to the whole new level. At this stage, whether you develop an app on iOS or Android, designing is equally important as choosing programming languages.

Collaborate with designers to create user-centric designing templates to give a fresh new look to the eLearning software. However, it’s not just about adding colorful designs, software should be able to engage viewers and help them explore new topics in a most satisfying way.

Hired designers can blend the creativity and functionally to leave a long-lasting impression on software users. When the UI (User Interface) part is ready, move on to check the UX (User Experience).

It is crucial to figure out how viewers will feel while using software. Thereafter, also need to check responsiveness in different devices as users will utilize eLearning software anywhere on laptop, tablet or mobile device.

7. Development Cycle

Once everything is in place, it’s time for turning the eLearning app idea into a reality. Start with the actual development process by asking developers to begin coding works. Let them integrate API for necessary features to the eLearning app using the most-used technologies.

At this stage, developers should ensure the app is fully functional and all features are included according to a pre-decided strategy. Make sure they consider all the necessary principles to develop software into account for improved efficiency and better performance.

Soon after the development part, direct testing engineers to check the quality of the software. This quality assurance process involves checking system errors or bugs before releasing the app on the Play Store or App Store.

At the same time, also check whether security measures are in place. Once the eLearning app is ready, indulge in marketing activities, which is the last part of the development cycle.

The Cost of eLearning Software Development

The eLearning software development cost relies on many factors such as project complexities, developers’ experience, and team location. The first step in the development process is the MVP (minimal viable product) stage where you may spend around $20,000 to $50,000. It is the basic version of the app before the team starts adding other features.

Thereafter, comes the actual development part, in which the cost may go up to $150,000 depending on the app’s functionality. Another factor influencing the development cost is post-launch maintenance. It could be between $5000 to $10,000 per annum.

Here are some other factors to consider while estimating the development cost of eLearning software:

1. Development Team Size

Development cost can vary due to the team size. It should be considered before beginning the project work. It is necessary to mention the cost in the developers’ contract to avoid payment issues.

The team consisting of many experts, team leaders, designers and testers can significantly pile up the overall production cost. Either pay them individually or outsource the app development to a reliable eLearning software development company.

2. Technical Aspects

Some technical factors can also contribute to the development cost of software. Decide whether it will be a native app development or cross-platform app development. Businesses having requirements of any one platform Android or iOS may spend less.

If you want to develop an app on both platforms, prices may increase. Since educational software has a requirement of multi-platform accessibility, it may impact the financial budget.

3. Intuitive Designs

Designing materials can be the reason for the additional cost of the eLearning project. Invest more on designing software by purchasing their premium subscription plan to create user-friendly interfaces, wireframes and other design icons.

To compete in the current market, get more unique designs for the eLearning app. For that, you need to incur extra expenses on designing tools and materials.

Final Thoughts

The eLearning market has great scope for entrepreneurs to bring a revolutionary change in today’s education industry. At first glance, it could be difficult to build an innovative eLearning app. But with the proper guidance from IT experts, get a reliable eLearning app ready.

Since many organizations want to be a part of this digital transformation, businesses can reap the rewards with custom eLearning solutions. Moon Technolabs, an eLearning app development company, can assist in creating the exact eLearning software you are looking for.

With vast experience in software development, our experts can guide businesses through project complexities. Get in touch with us for expert suggestions and build a next-gen eLearning software.

FAQs

Do thorough research and identify the likes and dislikes of modern learners. Gather their feedback to check whether there are scope of improvements in currently available software. In this process, take care of multiple factors such as location, learning habits and average study time of students. Engage in personal interviews with college students or seek some advice from professors.

Any type of eLearning software you choose, high-quality designs and user-interface play a vital role in keeping users glued to the laptop or mobile screen. Apart from designs, a multitude of advanced learning features and tools also attract more students. Plus, keep your app regularly updated by working on customer feedback and adding new features, ultimately it will increase the user engagement rate.

The eLearning software development project can take a few weeks or months to get fully completed. Project completion relies on various factors such as developers’ experience, location, platform, and features. The app can be made ready within a week or two, but the extra features and AI-enabled learning tools may take more hours. If the project has more complexities, the timeline can be extended to a year.

To ensure your user data are safe and secure, use SSL certificates or 256-bit data encryption. If there is a large amount of data, migrate it into the cloud storage to prevent the loss in case of unexpected events. Provide security check ups on a regular basis to keep data secured all the time. Additionally, you can take IT experts’ guidance to enhance the security of data.
ceo image
Jayanti Katariya

Jayanti Katariya is the CEO of Moon Technolabs, a fast-growing IT solutions provider, with 18+ years of experience in the industry. Passionate about developing creative apps from a young age, he pursued an engineering degree to further this interest. Under his leadership, Moon Technolabs has helped numerous brands establish their online presence and he has also launched an invoicing software that assists businesses to streamline their financial operations.

Get in Touch With Us

Please provide below details and we’ll get in touch with you soon.

Related Blogs

The Step by Step Guide to eLearning Software Development
#Software
fab_chat_icon fab_close