What Are the Tools You Need to Create an Online Course?
Building an online course can feel like piecing together a complicated puzzle. But with the right tools in your kit, the process becomes more manageable (and maybe even enjoyable). Think of these tools as your course creation sidekicks, here to help you every step of the way.
1. Course Hosting Platform
A course hosting platform is your course’s home base. This is where your students will access lessons, track their progress, and connect with your content.
- How to Use: Choose a platform that suits your needs, like Kajabi, Teachable, or Thinkific. This is where you’ll set up the structure of your course, upload your content, and customize everything to reflect your brand.
- My Tip: Don’t just pick the fanciest option; choose one that integrates well with the rest of your tools. Simplicity and ease of use will save you time (and sanity).
2. Video Recording Software
Your students want to see you. Recording high-quality videos is where the magic happens, as it gives you the space to shine and share your expertise.
- How to Use: Zoom, Loom, or even Canva’s video editor are fantastic options for recording your screen and voice. Canva is especially great for quick edits, adding text, and branding, all in one place.
- My Tip: Keep videos short and to the point. Your students will thank you for it. Aim for one learning outcome per video to keep things focused.
3. Editing Software
Editing might sound intimidating, but it’s key to creating a polished final product. You don’t need to be a tech wizard; even simple edits make a big difference.
- How to Use: Canva’s video editing tools are super user-friendly for trimming, adding text overlays, and including some branding flair. If you want to take things up a notch, tools like Adobe Premiere Pro or Camtasia are great, but Canva is perfect for quick, impactful edits.
- My Tip: Consistency is key. Use the same fonts, colors, and style across all videos to make them feel cohesive and professional.
4. Slide Deck Software
For those moments when you need to break down complex ideas, slide decks are your go-to. Think of them as your visual roadmap.
- How to Use: Use Canva, PowerPoint, or Keynote to design branded slide decks. Add bullet points, images, and diagrams to make your lessons easy to digest.
- My Tip: Less is more. Stick to clean, simple slides with minimal text to keep your students engaged.
5. Email Marketing Tool
Building and nurturing your community is everything. Your email list is your direct line to your students, and you want to keep them in the loop.
- How to Use: ConvertKit or Mailchimp are fantastic options for setting up automated sequences that introduce your course, nurture your audience, and build excitement.
- My Tip: Craft a pre-launch email series. Warm up your audience by sharing your story, overcoming objections, and showcasing the transformation your course offers.
6. Landing Page Builder
Your landing page is like the front door to your course; it’s where potential students get that first glimpse of what you’re offering.
- How to Use: If you have a WordPress website, use Elementor to build a stunning sales page. It’s a budget-friendly alternative that gives you full control over the design and layout.
- My Tip: Use a simple design and clear language that speaks to your audience. Highlight the benefits, include testimonials, and have a strong call-to-action.
7. Payment Processor
Let’s be real—you’ve put in the hard work, and it’s time to get paid for it. A secure payment processor makes transactions seamless for your students.
- How to Use: Set up Stripe or PayPal to handle payments on your course platform. Consider offering flexible options like payment plans.
- My Tip: Payment plans can make your course more accessible and help more people join your community.
8. Community Platform
One of the most rewarding parts of creating a course is building a community of like-minded people who support each other.
- How to Use: Set up a group on Facebook, Discord, or Circle to create a space where your students can ask questions, share wins, and network.
- My Tip: Set some community guidelines and use prompts to encourage interaction. A thriving community can turn your course into a transformative experience.
9. Project Management Tool
Feeling overwhelmed with everything on your plate? A project management tool can be your saving grace. It helps you organize your course content, deadlines, and tasks in one place.
- How to Use: If using a full-fledged tool like ClickUp feels too much right now, keep it simple. Use Asana or even just Google Sheets to list out your tasks, assign yourself due dates, and document your process. The key here is to stay organized and break things down into manageable steps.
- My Tip: Consistency is everything. Pick a tool that feels intuitive to you and stick with it. Tracking your progress will keep you focused and help you avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Note:
Remember, software companies are continuously upgrading their platforms to retain customers. Take GoHighLevel (GHL), for example; they’ve recently added a website and blog feature. Their load times might still be on the slower side (we use Cloudways for hosting), but they’re constantly working towards being a one-stop shop for business owners. Keep this in mind and schedule a quarterly reminder to check for updates so you’re always using the latest and greatest features these tools offer!
What Is a Course Creation Toolkit?
A course creation toolkit is your ultimate resource pack. It’s a collection of tools that streamlines every step of the course creation process, from recording and editing to managing your students. It’s like having your very own team working behind the scenes to bring your vision to life.
How Can Using These Tools Benefit You?
These tools simplify your workflow and help you create a professional, high-quality course without the overwhelm. They keep you organized, free up your time, and allow you to focus on what truly matters—connecting with your students and sharing your expertise.
You Got This!
Creating an online course doesn’t have to push you to the edge of quitting your business—the one that could help so many people. With the right tools, the process becomes manageable—and who knows, you might even enjoy it! These 9 tools will take you from idea to launch without you wanting to throw your computer out the window. Let’s get that course of yours up and running; it’s time to make your mark!
Ready to take the next step? FREE RESOURCE “The Vault” where you can download an exclusive resource that will help you map out your program idea in 30 minutes or less. Your legacy starts now, and I’ve got your back every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to invest in all these tools to get started?
A: Not at all! Start with the basics, like a hosting platform and video recording/editing tools like Canva. You can add more as you grow and see what fits your needs.
Q: Can I create an online course without a landing page builder?
A: Yes! If you have a WordPress site, use Elementor to create a stunning sales page. It’s a flexible and budget-friendly way to showcase your course.
Q: Is a community platform essential for every course?
A: While it’s not mandatory, it can add a huge value to the learning experience. A community allows your students to interact, share their progress, and build relationships that support their growth.
With these tools and tips, you’re set up to create a course that not only changes lives but builds a legacy. Let’s make your mark together!