Key Takeaways
- Understand the difference between course creation platforms and marketplaces.
- Explore the distinctions between all-in-one platforms and specialist platforms.
- Review the pros and cons of top platforms like Teachable, Thinkific, Kajabi, and Podia.
Course Creation Platforms Vs. Marketplaces
A course creation platform is a digital tool that allows you to build and sell online courses directly through your business. In contrast, a course marketplace is a website where you can contribute courses alongside other instructors. While marketplaces like Udemy and Skillshare offer exposure, they limit your earning potential due to their commission structures. Additionally, you won’t have access to your students’ email addresses, hindering future marketing efforts.
All-In-One Platforms Vs. Specialist Platforms
When choosing a platform, consider whether you need an all-in-one solution or a specialist platform. All-in-one platforms provide essential features for running a profitable online business, including website creation, email marketing, and digital product sales. They simplify management by keeping everything in one place, although you may sacrifice some customisation options.
On the other hand, specialist platforms excel in course creation, student experience, payment processing, and product delivery. They allow you to integrate other tools into your tech stack, making them ideal for those who already have a website or email marketing setup.
Teachable
Teachable is a well-known specialist course creation platform. It features a user-friendly curriculum builder that allows you to outline your course by adding sections and lessons. The block-based editor enables you to customise each lesson with videos, text, and PDFs. However, Teachable has recently increased its prices while reducing functionality, making it less competitive compared to other platforms.
Thinkific
Thinkific is another popular specialist platform that has made significant updates recently. It offers various lesson types, including assignments and quizzes, which enhance the learning experience. Thinkific’s one-step checkout flow simplifies the purchasing process, and its free plan allows you to sell courses without transaction fees, making it an attractive option for new course creators.
ThriveCart
Initially a checkout platform, ThriveCart has introduced ThriveCart Learn, allowing users to create and sell online courses. Its curriculum builder is highly customisable, but it requires external hosting for videos. ThriveCart’s one-time lifetime pricing offers excellent value, making it a top choice for budget-conscious creators.
Circle
Circle stands out as a community-focused platform, allowing you to create immersive private communities alongside your courses. It offers a user-friendly interface and mobile accessibility, making it ideal for business owners looking to foster engagement and interaction among members.
Kajabi
Kajabi is the leading all-in-one platform, enabling users to sell courses, create websites, and manage email marketing all in one place. Its curriculum builder is intuitive, and it offers a range of features for managing your online business. However, it may not provide the advanced customisation options some users desire.
Podia
Podia is a budget-friendly all-in-one platform known for its simplicity. It allows you to create a basic website, publish a blog, and sell courses. While it lacks some advanced features like quizzes and gamification, its user-friendly interface makes it a solid choice for those prioritising ease of use.
Systeme
Systeme is another budget-friendly all-in-one platform that offers a free plan for selling one course without transaction fees. Its flexible lesson builder provides various options, although it currently lacks advanced customisation features.
Conclusion
Choosing the right course creation platform depends on your specific needs and business goals. There is no one-size-fits-all solution; instead, consider your must-have features and whether you prefer an all-in-one or specialist platform. By conducting a needs assessment and exploring free trials, you can find the platform that feels right for you. Remember, the best tool is the one that aligns with your current requirements and future aspirations.