Using JavaScript to Automatically Run Storyline in Test Mode During Review

I recently had a request to create a "test mode" for Articulate Storyline courses by my SMEs when they are reviewing courses online at Articulate 360. I could manually do this, but with the number of courses I manage, I felt a needed an automatic method to minimize issues (and not accidentally publish a Test Mode course to learners).

The Test Mode allows for SMEs to navigate freely in the course and to not be restricted to a locked down Main Menu. The Main Menu contains buttons for each section, and the learner must complete each section before continuing (tracked by custom variables).

I thought I'd share my solution in case other developers wish to use a system like this.

Create variables:

• var_currentHost (text)
• var_testMode (true/false)

Slide #1:

1. Execute JavaScript as the top Trigger:

var currentHost = window.location.hostname
var player = GetPlayer();
player.SetVar("var_currentHost",currentHost);

1. Create Layer: Test Mode Indicator with visual indicator/instructions for course running in Test mode for SMEs.
2. Add Trigger: Show layer Test Mode Indicator When the timeline starts If var_currentHost is equal to articulateusercontent.com. Note: this is the returned value - I had expected 360.articulate.com though!

Main Menu: 

1. Create Layer: Test Mode.
   • Display text box indicator/instructions for course running in test mode for SMEs.
   • Add triggers change menu variables to unlock all menu buttons. In my case: "Set my var_Section1 equal to True when the timeline starts."

I cannot provide a .story because of the proprietary content... sorry about that.

Todd Haynes