Definition of authoring tool
Simply put, authoring tools are software features that enable trainers to assort various media to make the available training content more engaging and effective. They also allow trainers to transform the course into a totally new format by repurposing and reusing the original course material. Basically, they are tools that can be efficiently used for course creation, so as to retain learner interest. The content created by such authoring tools can be spread across varied media while keeping the effectiveness and simplicity of the material intact. Authoring tools allow trainers to be terse and precise at the same time without compromising upon the comprehensive value of the content, because of which there has been an increased use of them throughout e-learning circuit.

The need of authoring tools
It is common knowledge that content customization is essential in order to cater to varied learner needs. Before the advent of authoring tools, this had to be done with the help of programmers. The success of authoring tools lies in the fact that they aid the trainer to deliver customized course material without the help of course designers and programmers. The development of course content in house has become a reality thanks to authoring tools. Overall, trainers have embraced authoring tools, with more and more of their ilk analyzing the costs, benefits and features involved.

Selecting an authoring tool
Authoring tools are designed to assist in various aspects of learning. Today, most of them include features that assist in creating simulations and assessment. Others support the deployment of audio, video, graphics and text. Also most of the authoring tools are equipped with test creation. Choosing a tool for your organization should be a closely studied decision. Analyze the functionality of each toll before jumping on to the choice of features for your e-learning needs. Make a detailed list of the required functions and keep adding or deleting from this list as you learn more about different tools. Revising the list before shopping for the authoring tools will eliminate the possibility of you ending up with unimportant ones.

A basic overview of authoring tool features might help in its basic understanding.

Interoperability
See to it that the chosen authoring tool integrates with other softwares and systems within the organization. For this, it needs to comply with one of the popular standards recognized by the e-learning industry like AICC, SCORM, and the like. Also check if the authoring tool is compatible with any other leaning software used in your organization. It is always safe to consult the IT division to see if it actually complies with the existing infrastructure.

Variety
Authoring tools come in a wide variety. Some easy to use tools are designed so because the training required for using them is practically zilch. These are formatted and template based tools, which are powered by a dialogue box. And because of the poor flexibility of such tools, there is little scope for creativity on the part of trainer. Tools that attain a fine balance between ease of use and creative freedom are the most popular ones. They are the ones that are widely being used to create courses. They require little training and allow more creativity to the trainer. At the other far end are tools that can support sophisticated and refined audio and graphics and can produce high end simulations if required. The use of these tools requires training and they provide scope for creativity. More often than not, courses created by such tools are akin to sophisticated computer games. It is safest to find an optimum balance between these two criteria of tools.

Assessment needs
Always look out for a tool that supports the questions that you would like to base your assessment on. They can be either fill in the blanks or essays, true or false or matching, the choice is yours.

Automation of programming
Many tools provide an option of automated programs to allow trainers to deliver courses. This allows the trainers to break free from the dependence upon the programmers, which is an added advantage. Some tools are equipped with program writing abilities, with different programming codes and varied output formats. Chose for the output format that most suits you.

Ability to create variables
Tools can be judged upon features that assist in creating variables that are needed for adaptive learning. There could be different training methods depending upon the learning needs or learner responses to exercises. The ability of a tool to create variables can see the course through such a situation. Such courses are often difficult to design, but are particularly useful in developing courses for varied learner needs.

Flexibility to customize
The authoring software needs to be customization friendly in that it should leave scope for its own customization at the hands of the trainer. Open source code authoring tools can be altered and modified according to user needs. If not the trainer, a skilled programmer would be able to make changes to the tool.

Wrap up
Even if you have thoroughly studied the features of the authoring tool, it is always better to try it. Use trial versions of tools that are often available on the web. Using these versions of different tools will give you an insight into the pros and cons of an authoring tool.