How to Choose the Best Off-the-Shelf Elearning Content Providers

If you are looking for off the shelf elearning content where do you start?

Off-the-shelf. Ready made. Ready to go. Course Libraries. There are different terms, different content types and different suppliers from all around the world.

There are thousands of courses and options, supporting companies of different sizes in different sectors. You can get options for companies and get individual courses that have been designed for B2C – ideal for an individual to buy directly.

If you have been given the task of finding a course for your own Continual Professional Development (CPD) or finding a course library or set of courses for the company that you work for, then when do you start?

You might be the procurement manager or work within L&D and finally sign off the project that is going to approve the library that is going to be intergrated into the LMS or LXP? How can you be sure that the solution that you’ve selected is going to be suited for your company or organisation?

Where Do You Start?

How can you really check all of those courses in the library that the thousands of people in your organisation are going to use?

Finding a course or course library can feel like a daunting task. You don’t know when to start and then when you start the research process, you can end up with a list.

You start adding companies and courses and the list gets larger and larger.

But the problem remains. With so many options and promises, how do you make sure that you are going to make the right decision? It can feel like a daunting decision, but it doesn’t need to be like that. With the right planning, you can simplify the process, if you have some key criteria you can make a smart decision.

In this guide we’ll look at some of the factors that you make want to look at, including some of the basics about courses like SCORM and Microlearning.

Factors like SCORM might not be important, but not every LMS or LXP supports SCORM and you don’t want to end up buying a library that you can’t upload.

We’ll look at the benefits of off the shelf courses, whether you need to look at custom solutions and also take a look at elearning content roadmaps.

From evaluating content to look at why off the shelf matters, we’ll give you the information that you’ll need so that you can start to build you own process and understand how to select the best off the shelf course library providers.

1. What Is Off-the-Shelf Elearning Content and Why It Matters?

Off-the-shelf Elearning content consists of pre-built courses created to address common training needs.

You can find content on a wide range of subjects including cyber security, leadership, soft skills and sector specific content like data analytics in football. 

These courses can be downloaded and used immediately without any modification. You don’t always need to have your own LMS/LXP. Some suppliers will have their own LMS that you can access courses via the cloud using a their platform. 

If you have access to your own LMS/LXP that you’ll be able to add the courses.

Off the shelf courses often come as part of a larger elearning library that organisations can licence for a specific period, often a year. 

Many providers now support multi-language options and integration with learning management systems (LMS) or learning experience platforms (LXP), making them accessible for global teams.

Modern work environments are changing, often rapidly. Off the shelf elearning content allows organisations to respond to evolving learning and development needs quickly as part of an L&D strategy. 

2. Key Benefits of Off-the-Shelf Elearning Content

Choosing off-the-shelf elearning content comes with advantages and this makes it an attractive option.

Custom content provides all the advantage of using your own content, branding and specific to your own content, but it takes time and compared to off-the-shelf its can be expensive. 

Off-the-shelf will provides a cost effective solution because it eliminates the time and expense of creating custom content.

From cost savings to scalability, courses are designed to be deployed quickly and efficiently.

You’ll find a range of subjects, content types, length and they’ll come with different interactive options.

Below, we explore the key benefits that organisations can leverage by find the supplier that suit them.

• Immediate Deployment

1. 1. • Off-the-shelf courses are ready to use, reducing the time needed to upload and get live.
      • Project time is reduced.
      • SCORM, Thumbnails and metadata are readily available.

• Cost-Effective

1. 1. • More affordable compared to custom solutions.
      • No need for an in-house development team or costly customisation projects.

• Expert-Quality Content

1. 1. • Developed by subject matter experts, off-the-shelf courses are accurate, engaging, and often aligned with industry standards.
      • Many providers ensure their courses undergo quality assurance and testing.

• Wide Range of Topics

1. 1. • Libraries include content on compliance, soft skills, technical training, and more.
      • Sector specific libraries are available.
      • Specialist providers cater to niche industries like energy, pharmaceuticals, and even football analytics.

• Scalability

1. 1. • Can accommodate organisations of all sizes, from small teams to large global workforces.
      • Many providers offer licensing models that support unlimited users.

• Flexibility and Accessibility

  • • Courses can be accessed anytime, anywhere, making them ideal for remote and hybrid teams
      

    • Multi-language support ensures inclusivity for diverse workforces.

3. What to Look for in an Off-the-Shelf Elearning Provider

It helps if you know what you learning goals and have an L&D strategy in place.

Most suppliers have a course list. At a very basic level you’ll be able to match the courses against skills gaps you have.

You can do a more detailed analyst using demonstation analysis of the courses and course descriptions but this is a good place to start. Don’t forget that a course library isn’t going to solve all of your L&D issues, it needs to be part of your overal L&D strategy. And, you might need more than one library or use it alongside custom elearning content.

With a vast number of providers available, it’s essential to evaluate them against key criteria to find the best fit for your needs.

A great provider will offer not only high-quality content but also support for implementation, scalability, and explain how the library will provide strategic value.

Here are the critical factors to consider when evaluating potential providers:

1. Content Variety

   • Look for a provider offering a diverse range of topics,most will offer the standard topics, but do they offer different areas: travel security, de-escalation, retail & hotel security?
   • If the content is localised has it been checked by native speakers – if its Spanish, is it Latin American Spanish? Or just Spanish?

2. Quality of Instructional Design

   • High-quality courses should be engaging, interactive, and aligned with modern instructional design principles.
   • If you want interaction within the courses check  for multimedia elements like videos, quizzes, and gamified content – remember this might be across the entire library. 

3. Accessibility Features and Compliance

   • Confirm that courses meet accessibility standards, to ensure usability for all employees.
   • Inclusive design is crucial for creating an equitable learning environment.

4. Ease of Integration with LMS or LXP Platforms

   • Verify that the courses are compatible with your existing learning management system (LMS) or learning experience platform (LXP).
   • Look for support for standard formats like SCORM and xAPI to ensure seamless integration.
   • Get a test file to ensure the conten works with your platform.

5. Vendor Support and Customer Service

   • Choose a provider with responsive, knowledgeable support to address technical or content-related challenges promptly.
   • Check reviews and testimonials to gauge the quality of the provider’s customer service.

6. Regular Content Updates

   • Ensure the provider keeps their library up to date with the latest industry trends, regulations, and best practices.
   • Ask about their roadmap and whether you’ll have access to new courses.

4. Top Off-the-Shelf Elearning Content Providers

Several well-known providers excel in delivering off-the-shelf elearning content, each offering unique features to meet varying organisational needs. Below is a curated list of top providers and their unique offerings:

OpenSesame: Hosts a vast library of over 30,000 ready-to-download courses from leading elearning publishers. Known for its flexible licensing options, it integrates seamlessly with various LMS platforms, making it a versatile choice for organisations of all sizes.

Real Projects: Focuses on innovation and high-quality content, providing options for minor customisation to better align with organisational branding or objectives. Its approach to delivering engaging and interactive courses sets it apart in the market.

LinkedIn Learning: Provides a curated collection of over 16,000 courses specifically designed for organisations and their employees. Covering creative, technical, and business skills, it supports professional development and integrates easily with multiple LMS platforms.

BizLibrary: Offers an extensive collection of over 9,500 micro-videos and elearning courses. With a focus on business skills and compliance, its content is tailored to engage employees at all levels, making it a reliable choice for companies prioritising learner engagement.

Coursera for Business: Partners with top universities and institutions to deliver high-quality courses in various subjects, including data analysis, machine learning, and software engineering. With courses available in over 50 languages, it is a strong option for organisations with diverse, global teams.

iSpring Academy: Offers a subscription-based course library featuring topics such as compliance, leadership, and project management. All courses are SCORM-compliant and available in multiple languages, ensuring compatibility with various platforms and inclusivity for diverse teams.

Skillshub: Provides over 800 off-the-shelf training courses and 2,000 learning resources, such as infographics and cheat sheets. Designed in various styles, including motion graphics and presenter-led videos, its content appeals to different learning preferences and organisational needs.

HowKnow: HowKnow simplifies learning by offering over 5,000 curated resources through a single subscription. Its platform integrates trusted content providers, eliminating the need for multiple contracts or systems. With features like pathways, analytics, and broad topic coverage—including compliance, cybersecurity, and leadership—HowNow delivers impactful learning experiences in one centralised solution.

 

5. Industry-Specific Off-the-Shelf Elearning Providers

For organisations with highly specialised training needs, sector-specific off-the-shelf elearning providers offer targeted solutions that address unique industry requirements. Below are some examples of providers catering to niche markets:

AnalyiSport: This provider focuses on data analytics in football, offering courses tailored to professionals in the sports industry. With an emphasis on football-specific data interpretation and decision-making, AnalyiSport delivers highly specialised training that equips users with actionable insights.

3t: A leader in global workforce training and competency with over 35 years of experience, 3t specialises in delivering innovative training solutions for the energy and safety-critical sectors. Their offerings are designed to meet the rigorous demands of industries where precision and safety are paramount.

HSI: HSI provides essential training for CPR, AED, First Aid, and advanced programs such as Basic Life Support (BLS). With a strong focus on meeting regulatory requirements, HSI ensures organisations can achieve full certification in vital health and safety areas.

Trisat: Trisat specialises in security management training, offering a wide range of courses, from foundational certificates to advanced qualifications. Their programs are accessible on mobile devices, tablets, and laptops, ensuring learners can access vital training anytime, anywhere. Trisat’s focus on modular courses and blended learning options provides flexibility for security professionals at all levels.

Sector-specific providers like these demonstrate the versatility and depth of off-the-shelf elearning, making it possible to address even the most unique training needs. By focusing on industry-specific challenges, these providers help organisations build a highly skilled and competent workforce.

6. Deciding Between Custom and Off-the-Shelf Content: Which Fits Your Needs?

Choosing between custom and off-the-shelf elearning content depends on your organisation’s unique needs, timelines, and budget. Both options have strengths, and knowing when to use each can help you optimise your learning and development strategy.

When Off-the-Shelf Content Works Best

Off-the-shelf content is ideal for organisations needing quick, cost-effective training solutions.

It works well for common topics like compliance, leadership, and soft skills, where off-the-shelf, high-quality courses are readily available.

• Suitable for large-scale training across multiple locations due to scalability.
• Affordable for organisations with tight budgets, eliminating high custom development costs.
• Ready to deploy within days, saving critical time.
• Integrates as part of  elearning and L&D strategy

 

Custom Solutions: Tailored to Specific Needs

Custom elearning content is ideal for organisations with unique training needs that off-the-shelf options cannot address. 

This could include specialised topics, proprietary processes, or confidential information specific to your organisation. 

In these projects  developing internal courses ensures the content aligns precisely with your requirements while maintaining confidentiality.

• Customisation ensures alignment with specific goals, branding, and workforce needs.
• Allows for unique scenarios, branding elements, and interactive features.
• Requires significant time and resources, making it ideal for long-term, specialised projects.

 

Balancing Both for Organisational Needs

Combining custom and off-the-shelf content offers the best of both worlds. Use off the shelf course courses for standard training needs and reserve custom development for specialised topics.

• Example: Off-the-shelf compliance courses for regulatory needs, with custom onboarding content for new hires.
• Start with a needs assessment to identify gaps and align your strategy with organisational goals.

Key Considerations

• Cost: Off-the-shelf content is cost-effective, while custom solutions need a higher upfront investment.
• Time: Pre-built courses are ready immediately; custom development takes months.
• Flexibility: Custom content offers personalisation, while off-the-shelf solutions are versatile and scalable.

By understanding the advantages and limitations of each approach, organisations can create a comprehensive training programme that meets diverse needs effectively and efficiently.

Selecting between custom and off-the-shelf elearning content isn’t about finding a universally “right” answer—it’s about identifying the solution that aligns best with your organisation’s goals, budget, and timeline. 

Most organisations benefit from a hybrid approach, combining the scalability and affordability of off-the-shelf courses with the tailored precision of custom content.

7. Steps to Choosing the Best Provider for Your Organisation

Selecting the right elearning provider is a critical step in ensuring your training programme meets organisational goals.

 Follow these steps to choose the best provider:

Step 1: Assess Organisational Needs and Objectives

Start by clearly identifying your training goals.
Define the skills and knowledge your team needs to develop, ensuring these align with your overarching business objectives. Take into account factors such as workforce size, the variety of roles within your organisation, and any mandatory compliance or regulatory training requirements.

Step 2: Evaluate Content Samples or Trial Versions

Request content samples or access trial versions from prospective providers. Evaluate the instructional design, level of interactivity, and overall quality to ensure they meet your standards. 

This step is crucial for determining whether the content aligns with your organisation’s learning needs, preferences, and engagement expectations.

Step 3: Check Pricing Structures and ROI Potential

Examine the provider’s pricing models to ensure they align with your budget. Prioritise transparency, including clarity around any additional fees for updates, support, or integration.

Evaluate the potential return on investment by assessing the content against your organisational goals and training outcomes.

Step 4: Look at Customer Reviews and Case Studies

Get customer reviews and read case studies to assess the provider’s track record.

 Focus on feedback regarding customer support, ease of integration, and the quality of learning materials. 

Case studies can provide valuable insights into how the provider has effectively solved challenges similar to yours.

8. Understanding SCORM: Why It Still Matters in Elearning

SCORM. You’ll hear about it. SCORM Objects. SCORM Files. But what’s SCORM? 

When reading about elearning, you may well have come across the acronym SCORM.

Walking around Learning Technology or World of Learning and go onto a stand and within minutes someone will quickly mention ‘SCORM’. 

It’s a term that is commonly used. 

But unless you’ve previously worked in elearning, you’re unlikely to know what it means. 

SCORM is an acronym which stands for Sharable Content Object Reference Model. 

Essentially, it’s a set of technical standards to make sure that elearning courses are compatible with learning management systems. 

Without an agreed standard, the work of different course developers and learning management systems wouldn’t be compatible.

SCORM has become so widely used in the industry that it’s used to ensure that courses work on LMS/LXP platforms.

You’ll read lots of articles about the restrictions of using SCORM and LMS platforms – why ‘we’ shouldn’t be using SCORM. But the reality is that SCORM is widely used. 

It’s helpful to understand SCORM if you’re looking to purchase a learning management system and fill it with relevant courses.

What are SCORM Packages?

SCORM packages refer to the way elearning content is structured for easy delivery and compatibility. Content for a course is packed in a ZIP file. 

This method of delivery is known as a Package Interchange File. Within the ZIP file, there will be an .XML file named imsmanifest.XML which contains the information the learning management system needs to import and launch the content.

Do People Still Use SCORM?

Yes, SCORM remains widely used in the elearning industry. Although newer standards like xAPI have emerged, SCORM continues to be a popular choice due to its simplicity and proven reliability. Most LMS platforms and content providers still support SCORM, ensuring its relevance for organisations that value compatibility and ease of use.

Why Companies Use SCORM

Using SCORM helps everyone involved in the elearning process, from creating a course to making sure that learners can access it without any problems. 

By following the same set of technical standards, it’s easier to make everything work smoothly together.

For elearning course developers, using SCORM allows them to create courses which are compatible with the learning management systems which their customers use. 

For the creators of learning management systems, using SCORM allows them to develop platforms that can import and launch courses from a wide range of different developers. 

It also benefits the organisations that buy elearning courses. They know that if they use a learning management system that follows SCORM standards they’ll be able to choose from a wide range of compatible courses from different elearning developers. 

It also gives them the option of switching to a different learning management system without losing access to courses they have already purchased.

Problems with Uploading SCORM Files

In theory, you should be able to publish your SCORM file, upload it to your LMS/LXP, and use your content straight away. However, it’s not always that easy. 

SCORM files do fail validation. This  prevents them from being used. It is vital to understand the publishing process and settings for your content. This isn’t as difficult as it might seem.

If you are using a specific authoring tool, the company will often have a list of settings for various LMS/LXP vendors. 

Another common issue is file size restrictions.

 Despite increased network bandwidth and improved infrastructure, some LMS platforms still limit the size of uploaded files. SCORM files with large video or image assets can exceed these limits. 

To avoid complications, create a test SCORM file early in your project to confirm compatibility with your LMS. 

By taking the time to understand settings, file restrictions, and potential challenges, you can streamline the process of uploading SCORM files and reduce the likelihood of errors.

9. Localisation: The Key to Global Elearning Success

Rolling out a training programme for a global team can be challenging. 

With team members speaking different languages and bringing diverse cultural perspectives, how can you ensure your training content resonates and remains effective?

Why Localisation Matters

Localisation in elearning isn’t just about translating words.

Creating culturally relevant and accessible training experiences is key to connecting with a global workforce. 

By tailoring content to reflect cultural nuances, organisations can bridge communication gaps, foster inclusivity, and deliver training that resonates on a deeper level.

The growing importance of localisation is evident in industry trends. According to Deloitte’s Global Human Capital Trends 2022, 60% of global organisations view multilingual training as essential for driving employee engagement and performance. 

In today’s interconnected world, localised off-the-shelf elearning content is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity

Localisation in Off-the-Shelf elearning

Off-the-shelf elearning providers are increasingly offering multilingual content, but achieving true localisation requires more than a simple translation tool. It isn’t about having a course with a translate button. You need to have content that has been localised correctly. It isn’t a straight foward process and L&D directors should know about the process of translating elearning courses – as we’ve said, its more than just pressing translate. 

Challenges in Localisation

• Manual Processes: Traditional localisation relied solely on human translators, ensuring accuracy but slowing down the process. This approach often became a barrier to scaling content quickly and affordably.
• Cultural Relevance: Words alone aren’t enough—examples, tone, and visuals must also align with the learner’s cultural context to be effective.

Innovative Localisation Solutions

At Real Projects we are adopted a hybrid approach, combining AI-driven tools with human expertise to streamline workflows and maintain quality:

• AI Tools: Automated systems handle initial translations, video synchronisation, and voiceovers, significantly speeding up production.
• Human Oversight: Native speakers refine tone, pacing, and cultural nuances, ensuring translations are authentic and contextually appropriate. For instance, terms like “phishing” are accurately interpreted without losing their meaning.

 

Real-World Benefits of Localisation

Localising off-the-shelf content delivers measurable benefits:

• Increased Engagement: Employees engage more effectively with training in their native language, with 75% of users more likely to interact with content that feels culturally relevant (Common Sense Advisory).
• Global Reach: Localised content ensures organisations can deliver consistent training across regions, improving alignment and productivity.
• Retention Boost: Companies investing in multilingual training see higher employee retention rates—90% of employees are more likely to stay with an organisation that supports their learning in their native language (LinkedIn Learning, 2023 Workplace Learning Report).

Localisation Done Right

Effective localisation isn’t just about adopting the latest technology.

It’s about building a process that combines innovation with collaboration. 

At Real Projects using this approach we have achieved impressive results, such as delivering 500+ multilingual courses in under six months. 

These courses, available in languages like Brazilian Portuguese, Latin American Spanish, Italian, German, and French, highlight how localisation can transform off-the-shelf elearning into a truly global solution.

10. Elearning Library Roadmaps: How to Plan for Long-Term Success

An elearning roadmap is a plan that maps out the development and release of content in a provider’s library.

It helps organisations plan training and keeps them informed about upcoming updates.

An elearning roadmap helps organisations align training with their goals, keeping content relevant and effective.

Providers use it to share updates on new courses, improvements, and plans for expanding into areas like specific industries or multilingual content.

Benefits of an elearning Roadmap

Transparency: You get to see the provider’s release schedule. This visibility ensures that L&D teams can prepare for upcoming courses and address skill gaps proactively.

Proactive Planning: Roadmaps allow  organisations to anticipate future content that aligns with emerging needs.

Content Evolution: A detailed roadmap showcases the provider’s commitment to staying relevant by regularly updating their library, adding new topics, and incorporating feedback from customers.

 

Key Elements of a Good Elearning Roadmap

Scheduled Course Releases: Roadmaps include timelines for launching new content.

Customer-Driven Updates: Providers who prioritise customer feedback ensure their roadmap reflects the evolving needs of their audience.

Support for Multiple Languages: Expansion into multilingual offerings is a critical aspect of many roadmaps, demonstrating a commitment to accessibility for global teams.

 

How Organisations Can Leverage an Elearning Roadmap

Alignment with Organisational Goals: By aligning training initiatives with upcoming course releases, organisations can ensure their programmes meet strategic objectives.

Budget Allocation: Anticipating new content releases allows organisations to allocate resources effectively, avoiding surprises in their L&D budget.

Customisation Opportunities: Engaging providers early on to adapt content or incorporate specific features ensures the training resonates with your organisation’s unique needs.

An elearning roadmap provides transparency, facilitates proactive planning, and ensures training efforts remain aligned with organisational goals. 

When evaluating elearning providers, consider the clarity and comprehensiveness of their roadmap—it could make all the difference in building a successful and scalable training programme.

11. What Does Off The Shelf Elearning Course Look Like?

If you’ve not seen an off the shelf elearning course in action. Take a look a few of these examples from the Real Projects Course Library.

 

 

12. Microlearning: A Modern Approach to Learning

Microlearning delivers training content in small, focused chunks, typically lasting between one and five minutes. It has become a core feature in off-the-shelf elearning libraries, aligning with the needs of modern learners who prefer quick, accessible, and flexible training options.

This method is designed to address complex topics in digestible segments, making it particularly 

Benefits of Microlearning

Quick and Efficient: Microlearning enables learners to absorb essential information quickly. Its short duration eliminates the need for the classic  hour-long sessions, making it ideal for rapid deployment and immediate impact.

Flexible Delivery: Off-the-shelf microlearning content can be delivered via various formats such as videos, animations, interactive quizzes, or audio clips.

Improved Retention: Microlearning allows  repeated exposure to small lessons. Learners can revisit modules as needed, creating a just-in-time learning solution for quick refreshers.

Cost-Effective and Scalable: The shorter development time and smaller content size make microlearning more cost-effective compared to traditional training methods. 

When selecting microlearning content from off-the-shelf libraries, ensure it is well-structured, concise, and aligned with your organisation’s needs.

13. Final Steps to Elevate Your ELearning Strategy with the Right Provider

How do you choose the right off-the-shelf elearning content provider? You might need to select more than one to meet all of your requirements and have a mix of custom and off the shelf content.  If you are just starting you can head out to an exhibition or conference to get some ideas or contact some of the suppliers we’ve listed. 

In this article we’ve gone through some of the different elements that you might want to consider when looking to buy off-the-shelf content, from its key benefits and selection criteria to understanding other topics like SCORM, localisation, and microlearning. You are now in a great position and if you want more information you can review our complete guide on buying an elearning library.

You need to consider balancing custom and off the shelf solutions, aligning with clear organisational goals, and leveraging tools like elearning roadmaps. This doesn’t take as long as you think and it will support your L&D strategy. 

Off-the-shelf elearning providers offer a wealth of opportunities to address common training challenges quickly and affordably, while specialised options cater to unique industry demands. 

Whether you’re looking to deploy training at scale or ensure accessibility for a global workforce, this insight provides you with a starting point to navigate the vast elearning market confidently. If you need additional information then get in touch with us at Real Projects.

Ultimately, success lies in making informed choices—evaluating providers based on quality, compatibility, and future readiness.

By following the steps outlined and considering the detailed insights provided, you’ll be on the way!