Software training eLearning

I do a lot of software and systems training. For screen capture I typically use Camtasia if I'm just doing a tutorial and I use Captivate to build simulations.  The easy to use zoom and pan functionality in Camtasia makes it really nice for focusing the user. Some the content I make has to be available for mobile delivery so you need to get in really tight on those menus so the end user can see what is happening. 

When dealing with decision making, that is where branching comes into play and building a decision tree within your training. It's important to really think it through and take the time to map it out before you start working. 

Thanks, Rich. My questions were actually more about slide design. 

What is the best way to combine step by step instructions and the screen capture on the same slide?

Or shouldn't you?

How do you show decisions and software activities that are related? (In the training part, before you test them).

"When the data is XXX, the screen displays XXX. Your next step is to find the related policy information."

Hope this helps describe my issues more clearly

For complex software tasks and scenarios, break up the steps into the smallest chunks humanly possible. Then sequence the steps so you have users complete a few steps and then regroup ("now you've done blah blah... next we will blah blah...). I like to show a summary screen and keep returning to it so users can keep seeing the big picture of steps.

I usually put the step-by-step instructions in a text box layered right on top of the software window capture. I only show one "action" step per text box - clicking the correct location (or incorrect) changes the text box. I like learners to see all the steps in a sequence so I will often use the action to reveal one more step so that when they finish a 5-step process they will see all 5 steps. This approach always tends to have the text box in the way of what learners need to see, so I'm always moving the text box around. And you can quickly end up with 100+ Captivate slides to manage (bring on the Tylenol).

And if you should see the screen details or just confirmation that you are on the right screen? It depends

Also I love how Allen Interactions sets up their instructions for this clinical info system training... you have to register to see it, but if you are doing interactive software training, it's worth seeing.

http://www.alleninteractions.com/e-learning-demos/new-york-medical-software-training-solution

Thanks so much for your tips, Angie. I looked at the Allen Interactive demo and liked some of the interactions they used.

Now I have more ideas for designing the training!

Judith