If I Were a Carpenter…

I've been reviewing online course authoring tools for the past few days, downloading demo versions and building courses with them. By staying current with these tools, I can make sure my opinion is valid when a client requests it. While these products vary in their “sexy” factor, I am reminded tools don’t build a house – a carpenter does.

Growing up, I was my father’s grudging apprentice for every household project. From finishing our basement to repairing our ancient lawn mower (again), I was sent digging through tool chests for half-inch box wrenches, or Phillips head screwdrivers, or pipe wrenches, or whatever was needed. I hated this indentured servitude, and worked only until the very second that I was set free to do important things like read comic books or torment my sister.

As an adult with home projects of my own, what I remember from working with Dad is his tools. They were mostly old hand-tools passed on to him by his father. My tools on the other hand are shiny, complicated gadgets with automated features that I never take the time to read about. The sad realization that my results are never as polished as Dad’s is a reminder that the tool is the means, not the end.

Remember this when you’re choosing an authoring tool. If you focus on the quality and organization of your content, the tool isn’t as important. Pick a tool you can understand and use, and your house – the training you develop – will stand the test of time.