Software product training using authoring tools like Captivate or Adobe Flash is an effective mode of eLearning.

1. Software Product Simulation - Captivate or Flash?
Software product training using authoring tools like Captivate or Adobe Flash is an effective mode of
eLearning.
Screenshots of the software acts as a raw content for developing an online course. The learner is taught
on how to use the software by creating a simulated environment. The effectiveness of learning can be
enhanced by using audio. Both Captivate and Flash can impart training. Let’s see, which one is more
suitable.
If the software has an intuitive interface and navigation, the learner can easily learn the software by
simple demonstration using Captivate, a rapid elearning tool.
If the software is complex and has multiple users and tasks, it becomes difficult for the user to learn
the software, hence Adobe Flash is recommended. Some of the examples of complex software are SAP,
Call Center software, Customer portals etc.
For complex software products, the effective instructional strategy is using Watch-Try-Do (WTD)
approach. The strategy is to first show the operations, and then invite the learner to try and perform the
required operations with some guidance and finally, allow him/her to try the operations all by themselves.
This approach provides a smooth transition in learning – from watching, to trying and finally, doing the
operations.
The raw content for the complex software products will be Captivate screen, describing the flow of the
software, its navigation and its uses. Based on the Captivate screens, a detailed storyboard is developed
to incorporate Watch-Try-Do. Using Adobe Flash, we can create WTD simulations with ease.
For both simple and complex software products, Captivate plays an important role in developing eLearning
content. It helps to record screens and navigational flow of the product effectively. It also integrates audio
and offers a customized interface for the learner to navigate and explore the simulation.
To learn more about Captivate-3, visit:
http://www.commlabindia.com/elearning-cataloguecourses/captivate.php
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