How to create SCORM-compliant content for modern organizations

Creating digital learning that works across different environments has become essential for many companies. Teams rely on multiple learning technologies and often switch systems over time. To keep content compatible, these teams need a shared format that ensures the content behaves predictably. SCORM provides that format. It stands for Sharable Content Object Reference Model, and has remained one of the most important standards in e-learning, because it makes training trackable.

SCORM was introduced to reduce vendor lock in and to allow content to move freely between systems. Before it existed, training created in one environment often could not run in another. SCORM solved that by defining a common packaging method and a common language for Learning Management Systems (LMSs). Even with newer standards available today, SCORM remains dominant because almost every LMS supports it.

What makes a course SCORM compliant?

SCORM compliance means the training has been packaged in a ZIP file that follows the SCORM specification. This ZIP file contains an imsmanifest.xml file at its root. The manifest describes the course structure, the order in which the LMS should launch elements, and the information required for tracking. The rest of the package contains all the files that make up the course, including HTML, JavaScript, and media assets.

When uploaded to a SCORM-compliant LMS, the course launches properly and the LMS records data such as completion status, quiz performance, and time spent in the course. These signals allow organizations to understand how learners move through content and where they may face difficulties.

Creating a SCORM package from start to finish

To create a SCORM package, you have to start building the training content in an environment that supports SCORM exports. After designing the content, you export the course as a SCORM 1.2 or SCORM 2004 package. Both versions remain active in the corporate learning landscape.

SCORM 1.2 is widely supported and simple to implement. SCORM 2004 extends sequencing rules for more advanced learning structures. Once exported, the SCORM ZIP can be uploaded to your LMS for testing. Opening the course from within the LMS allows you to confirm tracking behavior and verify that progress is captured correctly.

Once the course is published and assigned to learners, SCORM begins to collect meaningful data. L&D teams can see who completed the course, which questions were answered correctly, where learners struggled and how long they spent in each section. This information helps refine content and improve the overall learning experience.

New approaches to SCORM creation

Modern authoring environments have reduced the complexity around SCORM creation. Many offer simple export flows that package the course with a clear structure. The biggest advantage comes from environments that support rapid updates. With dynamic SCORM, the author uploads the package once and then updates the course from the authoring environment without uploading a new ZIP every time. This approach is helpful for content that changes often, such as compliance, product updates, or process documentation.

Although SCORM has constraints, it remains a strong choice for organizations that value compatibility and predictable tracking. Alternative standards such as xAPI and cmi5 have expanded capabilities for informal learning and open ecosystems. However, SCORM continues to serve as the foundation for formal learning content in most workplaces.

How to choose the right SCORM-compliant authoring platform

Selecting the right authoring environment determines how easily your team can create and maintain SCORM content. The ideal environment supports clean packaging, predictable tracking, and simple updates.

Each of the following solutions supports SCORM, but they differ in approach and strengths.

Easygenerator

Easygenerator supports SCORM 1.2 and SCORM 2004 exports, as well as xAPI. It also offers dynamic SCORM, so that after the initial upload to your LMS, you can update the course and push changes without manual re-upload.

The interface supports drag-and-drop, AI-powered conversions of existing files into interactive SCORM, auto-translation into 75+ languages, and built-in analytics. Because it is designed for internal experts and L&D teams rather than only instructional designers, it scales training creation across the organization.

If your goal is to empower teams to build company-tailored training at scale and make SCORM updates simple, Easygenerator offers a distinctive advantage.

Elucidat

Elucidat supports SCORM and works well for global learning teams that require governance, branding, collaborative authoring, and responsive design. It fits organizations that manage enterprise-scale content libraries.

Adobe Captivate

Adobe Captivate supports SCORM and excels at complex simulations and interactionheavy learning. It’s suited for teams with highly specialized instructional designers who need full creative control.

Articulate

Articulate supports SCORM through both Rise and Storyline, and is known for strong interactivity and a wide creative range. It supports teams that want to balance quick creation with deeper design options.

iSpring

iSpring supports SCORM and integrates closely with PowerPoint, making it useful for organizations that create training from existing presentations. It offers a familiar workflow that supports quick turnaround.

Final notes

SCORM compliance remains a practical and reliable way to ensure training works across environments. It helps teams build content once and deliver it anywhere, all while tracking learner progress in a consistent way. Creating SCORM packages has become easier with  modern authoring environments. As a result, L&D teams can turn their focus from technical packaging to designing meaningful learning experiences instead.