Managing learning content across multiple learning platforms and Learning Management Systems (LMS) can be a real challenge. You often need to log into each platform individually to make updates, upload content, and track results. The solution to these challenges is SCORM dispatching. But how to dispatch SCORM courses? In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what SCORM dispatching is and how you can easily get started.
SCORM dispatching is a technique that allows you to deploy a SCORM package across multiple LMSs without having to upload the original file repeatedly. Instead of duplicating content, SCORM dispatching creates a “dispatch link” or reference to the learning content. This link can be integrated into various LMSs, while the actual course content remains in a central location. This means that updates, tracking, and content management happen in one place, and any changes are automatically reflected in every LMS using the link. SCORM dispatching enables educators to keep one version of the course up-to-date while ensuring it’s accessible across multiple platforms.
1. Efficient Management and Easy Maintenance
With SCORM dispatching, you only need to manage one central version of a course, accessible through links across multiple LMSs. This means that updates only need to be made in one place and are automatically visible across all connected platforms. This approach saves significant time and reduces the risk of manual maintenance errors, making it much easier to manage your learning content.
2. Consistent User Experience
SCORM dispatching uses a centrally managed course, ensuring users across all LMSs see the exact same learning content with no variations in functionality or experience. This consistent approach delivers a reliable and familiar learning experience to all users, regardless of the platform they use.
3. Centralized Tracking and Reporting
With SCORM dispatching, you can monitor user progress and performance across different LMSs from a single location. Data such as completion rates and grades are gathered in a central system, making it easier to get a comprehensive overview of learning performance. Centralized reporting provides valuable insights and allows you to respond quickly to users' learning needs.
Now that you know SCORM dispatching is more than just a helpful tool but actually brings real advantages, let’s get into the process of how to dispatch SCORM courses. Here’s a simple, five-step guide to get started.
Step 1: Select a Platform or Tool
To dispatch SCORM courses, you need a platform that can generate dispatch links, like Linqur. When choosing a platform, consider a few key factors:
Step 2: Upload the SCORM Course
After selecting your platform, upload your SCORM course. Most dispatching tools offer an upload option where you can select the SCORM file. Once uploaded, check that the course displays correctly in the tool to ensure all functions work as expected.
Step 3: Configure Dispatch Settings
After uploading the course, configure your dispatch settings. Common options include:
Step 4: Generate Dispatch Links
Next, generate the dispatch links. These are unique URLs or packages that can be integrated into various LMSs. Choose the option to generate a dispatch link, and review options like setting expiration dates or adding additional security layers. These links enable your clients’ LMSs to access the course directly from the dispatch platform.
Step 5: Import the Dispatch Link into the Target LMS
Now, import the dispatch link or package into the LMS. This process varies by LMS, but most have an option to import SCORM courses. Look for the import or upload function for SCORM courses, select the dispatch link or file, and follow the steps to integrate it correctly. After importing, check that the course works as expected and that all functions, such as tracking and completion, are accurately displayed.
Step 6: Test and Monitor the Course
Testing the course before it goes live is essential. Go through the course as a user would, checking that everything functions properly, including progress tracking and results saving. Once deployed, continue to monitor the course to see how users are performing and to resolve any technical issues promptly. Many dispatch platforms offer dashboards and reporting features to track user progress and completion statistics easily.
Now that you know how to dispatch SCORM courses, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls. Here are the most frequent mistakes and tips on how to prevent them.
1. Incorrect Tracking Configuration
Improper tracking settings can lead to progress and performance data not being recorded accurately. Check which data points you need to track, and test the course before going live to confirm tracking is functioning as expected.
2. Errors Importing Dispatch Links
Errors when importing dispatch links can lead to broken links or non-functional content in the LMS. Follow the dispatch platform and LMS instructions carefully and test the link to ensure everything works as intended.
3. Overly Strict Access Restrictions
Overly strict access restrictions can prevent authorized users from accessing the course. Test the security settings from a user’s perspective to strike a balance between security and accessibility.
Now you know how to dispatch SCORM courses. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can efficiently dispatch SCORM courses and offer users a smooth, consistent learning experience across multiple LMSs.
Cas van Lier is our textual ace, in other words: our copywriter. He ensures that the essence of Linqur is conveyed as effectively as possible through fresh and convincing content. When Cas isn’t at the keyboard, he’s often found at the beach or in the woods with his girlfriend and dog.