Repurposed Content
May 2007
E-learning software
Last month we discussed return on investment (ROI) in e-Learning and where to
look for greater utilization of our e-Learning assets. This ROI discussion
almost always migrates to identifying quality benchmark achievements or new
cross-organizational applications. Any well-developed Learning Management
System (LMS) may be utilized to create, communicate and track for multiple
purposes, not just training, in the normal sense of the word. However,
re-purposing content can create significant efficiencies in your e-Learning
program, while inherently driving depth and breadth in utilization, and still
greater ROI.
Re-purposing content should be foundational to any
progressive e-Learning program. Let us assume the wisdom of this position is
evident and focus on a few basics in implementing the concept. Though a highly
structured process may be helpful for some environments or organizations,
having a positive attitude about re-purposing content can be sufficient for
others.
Identify all sources of content. Include those resources
controlled by others in your organization. Your list should include department,
point of contact and possible content assets. Sources may be external vendors,
partners, regulators and other stakeholders. List as many as you can.
Log all content pieces. Start cataloging all content pieces,
and get others from your source list to help identify some specifics to what
they have in their possession. A PowerPoint presentation, for example, may be
an excellent piece of content, but each PowerPoint may also include graphic
files or slides that can be individually useful in creating other content for
other purposes - re-purposing!
It can also be very helpful to note if files are in a web
deliverable format. Videos in a .MOV file format may not be considered web
deliverable, but they may be converted - just knowing that can help in
planning. Always be aware, noting intellectual property ownership attributes,
such as copyright.
Content Resource Catalog – Taking the time to identify
resources and log content pieces with attributes can potentially save you lots
of time. Creating or building courses, especially for multiple purposes and
audiences, is much less frustrating and time consuming when you know the
availability and cost of useful content pieces. Using your own internal Content
Resource Catalog will be very helpful when mapping out your needs assessment
for each course or communications program. Re-purposing can be your
shortcut to a successful e-Learning project that comes in ahead of schedule and
budget.