how long does it really take to build training?
May 05, 2021
Hello -
I'm in a hybrid role - training specialist/project-based HR Generalist. Because this is a hybrid role, I need to clearly communicate the time it takes to actually build a course, whether it's ILT or eLearning.
I'm curious: how long does it typically take you to build out a course - ILT or eLearning? I'm aware of the 40-ish hours to build a 1 hour ILT course... all the industry-wide research. I've built out a project plan.
I'm curious about the experience of other instructional designers/trainers and how you handle project timing discussions.
Some background: I recently received a directive to develop and deliver 5 courses in 4 weeks and I'm really struggling with this conversation. I've pushed back in a professional manner (not the first time I've had this conversation with leaders), but I want to check myself to make sure I'm not being unrealistic is stating that it's an unrealistic deliverable, given time to design/develop/review...and manage other projects. Maybe everyone is working this way and I need to step up my game. For some reason, I'm having a hard time with this. Open to all feedback!
2 Replies
Hi, Kimberly,
Estimating development time is the hardest part about creating courses. There are so many variables:
So five courses in four weeks? Well, maybe if they're short, easy, and everyone answers questions and completes their reviews right away. Otherwise, that seems like too big an ask (especially when you can't make it a full-time effort).
Hi Kimberly! Judy brought up some great points. There are a lot of things to consider. This article shares a few additional considerations and some examples of how other community members estimate course development.