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Cas van Lier

14-11-2024

How to Dispatch SCORM Courses: A Step-by-Step Guide

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.

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What is SCORM Dispatching?

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.

The Three Biggest Benefits of SCORM Dispatching

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.

How to Dispatch SCORM Courses in 5 Easy Steps

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:

  • Server Location: For privacy and speed, ensure the servers are in a region that complies with local data protection regulations, such as GDPR within the EU.
  • Cost: Compare different platforms’ costs, including subscription fees, per-user rates, and any hidden fees.
  • Ease of Use: Choose a tool that’s intuitive and doesn’t require much technical knowledge. A platform with clear instructions and support can also be very helpful.

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:

  • Access Limits: Set restrictions for who can open the course, based on factors like URL or password protection.
  • Tracking Options: Select the metrics you want to track, such as completion status and grades. These settings are crucial for generating reports on user progress.
  • Restrictions and Security: Enable settings that allow access only to authorized users and ensure data security. Verify that the platform complies with local privacy regulations, like GDPR.

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.

How to dispatch SCORM courses: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

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.

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About the author
Cas van Lier

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.