Basic computer based training authoring is made very easy and simple through the use of screen casting. Screen casting can be simply defined as a digital recording of the computer monitor’s output and typically with the use of a microphone contains audio with the visual presentation from the monitor’s output.

Computer based training authoring using screen cast technology is one of the best ways to present and train people on various online services, software applications or the use of an offline product.

Computer based training and authoring allows employers and business owners alike to present materials such as training on new software being implemented in the work place, seminars and other various training programs in an asynchronous environment making it more flexible for the employer and the student to conduct the training. The authors of computer based training can post the multimedia files directly to their own hosting or a provider that specializes in multimedia hosting. In fact, some of these computer based training authored programs are burnt to DVDs, packaged and sold. Usually these repacked products are sold at a fraction of the original cost of the training event or seminar.

Computer based training authoring is a terrific option for the small or home based business owner. Businesses can produce and provide multimedia materials to a broad market or employee base that will have no geographic barriers to the learning process.

There are several computer based training authoring tools in the marketplace today. Selecting the proper computer based training authoring tool for developing a business’s training material not a small task.

There are many different computer based training authoring tools, but two that will meet most requirements of the small business owner is Camstudio and Camtasia.

Camstudio is a program which can capture video and audio from the desktop, ideal for preparing tutorials, and possibly for ripping flash video. Camstudio is open source software and can be found for free through a quick search on the Internet using any major search engine.

Camtasia is commercial software that makes everything from training videos to PowerPoint presentations to lectures.

Some factors to consider when selecting the right computer based training authoring tool for your business is listed in the following paragraphs:

Situational Parameters

Not all computer based training authoring tools are appropriate for all training situations. Consider the circumstance in which computer based training authoring tools will be used. As information is collected, if the training is founded on good instructional design principles, the interactivity produced by the computer based training authoring tool will solidify the learner’s experience.

Training Objectives & Delivery Methods

What type of training is being provided? This will help determine which computer based training authoring tools that are used. Will you provide training on a DVD, CD Rom, and web based video or audio?

Media Needs

What types of media will you need for the instruction? Does the computer based training authoring tool being used support the file types you require?

Ongoing Support

The training will need to be refreshed periodically. Schedules should be setup to verify all media’s relevancy.

The computer based training authoring tool that best meets your needs will depend entirely upon your situation. In the long run, applying due diligence during the evaluation process will save you time and money. Computer based training authoring is an effective way to get with the Web 2.0 wave and bring your business and website into the new millennia.