Custom made templates

Whether it's "better" to start from a .storytemplate file vs a .story file is really a matter of preference. Personally, I find it easier to insert a new slide by choosing a layout that's already included in the SL file, rather than having to import from a template.

So if the external company gave you a .story file with well designed Master layouts (and perhaps some pre-done slides), it might be easier for anyone in your company to start a new project by saving a copy of that file.

I do recommend storing a backup of that setup file, though, just in case someone starts editing it before they save it as a new project.

Thank you Judy. Do you know what advantages there are of a template over a
regular story file?--

Hi Margaret!

Great question about the advantages of templates vs. .story files.

I see Judy has been helping you but just to add:

I understand that you’re trying to understand the purpose of using .story or .storytemplate files. I’m happy to help!

Templates are helpful if you’re looking to build a custom design that you’d like all of your projects to use. Templates are reusable and can be a big timesaver if you’d like to include your own branding in your Storyline 360 courses. .storytemplate files are also saved under My Templates making them easily accessible when you’re creating projects.

.story files are our standard Storyline course file type. You can still share courses with others and they can make their own edits. I would recommend saving courses as .story files if they’re each unique.

Also, I found some resources that go into more detail about using custom templates in Storyline 360 and working with templates, slide masters, and theme layouts:

• Storyline 360: Using Custom Templates
• Working with Templates, Slide Masters, Themes, and Layouts in Storyline

Hope this helps!

I have minimal experience with templates. Perhaps someone who uses them more will jump in with what they think the advantages are.