6 Reasons To Outsource eLearning Content Conversion (Vs. Tackling The Task In-House)

Why You Should Invest In eLearning Content Conversion Outsourcing

“Outsourcing” isn’t a dirty word. Most organizations associate it with high costs, loss of control, and lack of oversight. However, there are numerous reasons to hire an external team for eLearning content conversion. The key is choosing a partner who knows your industry and meshes with your team. A company that gives your assets the TLC they need to appeal to modern learners and achieve your current goals. So, say goodbye to Flash videos and PowerPoint presentations. Here are 6 notable perks of outsourcing eLearning content conversion instead of assigning the task to your L&D team.

1. Reduce Software Costs

Unfortunately, eLearning content conversion usually requires specialized software, such as rapid authoring tools to reformat the source material and/or add more interactive elements. This takes a bite out of your budget. eLearning outsourcing eliminates these software expenses because the vendor has all the essentials. Thus, you can allocate your funds elsewhere and you don’t have to worry about researching the latest and greatest platforms. Of course, you still need an LMS to host your newly formatted content. But you can always use an online directory to start your search.

2. Quick Turnaround

A content provider who specializes in eLearning content conversion knows the ins and outs of the process. They’ve streamlined their techniques for quick turnarounds so they can move on to the next project. Thus, you can reformat and enrich online training resources in a fraction of the time instead of having to endure the arduous process on your own and deal with potential delays. Of course, you need a partner who won’t rush through the work and make numerous mistakes along the way. It’s all about balance. Ask about their timeframe, which tasks are involved, and how many people are on the payroll. Do they leave room for emergencies? How many projects are ahead of you in the line?

3. Enhance Your Assets

Many outsourcing partners go beyond content conversion to enhance your online training assets. Especially if they offer tie-in services, such as bespoke solutions or content customization. But don’t automatically assume that these services are part of the package. Reach out to the vendor to inquire about add-ons and content upgrades. For example, can they add voice-overs or gamification elements to make it more engaging? Once again, they have the necessary tools and experience to transform online training resources and maximize your ROI. To achieve the same results, you may have to hire a graphic designer, ID, SME, and other key players, not to mention, invest in advanced software to beef up that eLearning toolbox.

4. Utilize Vendor Expertise

Content conversion companies have seen it all before. They deal with the learning curve so that you don’t have to, particularly those who’ve been in the industry for years and have an extensive portfolio. Hiring them to convert eLearning content gives you access to their expertise and insights. Tackling the task in-house leaves you vulnerable to unexpected challenges. You’re also limited by your employees’ past experiences and tech know-how. Content providers can quickly troubleshoot issues that arise and use their lateral thinking skills—and past mistakes—to devise alternative solutions, as well as suggest revisions or design elements that take your content to the next level.

5. Cut Payroll Expenses

The alternative to outsourcing the project is to hire a dedicated team that makes similar mistakes to amass expertise. They must deal with the same trials and tribulations the vendor already went through to reach their current level of experience. Or you can assign the task to employees already on the payroll and add to their to-do list. In either case, outsourcing reduces salary costs because the vendor has their own team of designers, developers, and tech gurus. Their payroll expenses are included in your fees, but you don’t have to foot the bill for benefits or long-term contracts. Another reason to outsource is that you don’t have to deal with internal conflicts or ineffective team dynamics. For example, two collaborators don’t get along and cause delays. These behind-the-scenes obstacles are not your concern since the vendor accepts these responsibilities.

6. Ease The Burden On Your L&D Team

It’s not just employee pay and expertise you must factor into your decision-making. You also need to consider the burden content conversion will place on your team versus hiring an eLearning content provider. They already have their usual workload, and now they have to work on a new time-consuming L&D assignment. Outsourcing gives them the opportunity to focus on other job duties and reduces stress. They don’t need to worry about all the minor catastrophes that can befall content makeovers. As a result, they’re more likely to produce high-quality work in other areas and improve productivity. You retain your top talent because they aren’t overworked and can manage their time more effectively. The ripple effect continues thanks to the fact that you don’t have to pay for their replacements and can hone in-house talent.

These eLearning content conversion outsourcing benefits are just the beginning. Particularly if you’re an SMB with limited resources and don’t have the in-house expertise. You can still use assets that were developed with outdated software to extend their shelf life and stretch your budget. However, you need to find a worthy eLearning outsourcing partner for the job. Directories, social media, and recommendations are a great place to start your search. Look for providers who fall into your price range and collaborate with your L&D team to achieve the best results.