When it comes to distributing eLearning content to clients who use their own LMS, two names often come up: SCORM Dispatch and SCORM Cloud. Both tools allow you to deliver SCORM-compliant content externally while retaining control, but they differ in approach, pricing, and flexibility.
This post isn’t about saying one is “better” than the other—it’s about helping you understand the differences so you can decide which solution best fits your needs.
What is SCORM Cloud?
SCORM Cloud is a product developed by Rustici Software, one of the most recognised names in SCORM. It’s a mature platform that has been around for many years and offers a wide range of features:
- Importing, testing, and delivering SCORM, AICC, xAPI, and cmi5 content.
- Dispatching content to external LMSs.
- Detailed tracking and reporting.
- Developer-friendly APIs for integrations.
Due to its breadth, SCORM Cloud is often utilised by companies seeking a one-stop solution for managing and delivering content across various standards.
What is SCORM Dispatch?
SCORM Dispatch was created to focus specifically on course distribution—making it easier for content providers to deliver SCORM courses to clients’ LMSs while keeping ownership and control.
Key features include:
- Simple dispatch package creation for clients’ LMSs.
- Usage tracking with visibility into learners’ progress, completion, and scores.
- Version control options, allowing you to update courses without disrupting existing learners.
- Flexible multi-language messaging and customisation options.
Unlike SCORM Cloud, SCORM Dispatch doesn’t try to cover every learning technology standard—it’s focused and streamlined around SCORM distribution.
Key Differences
Here are some of the main differences between the two:
- Scope of Features
- SCORM Cloud: A broad solution supporting multiple standards (SCORM, AICC, xAPI, cmi5).
- SCORM Dispatch: Focused on SCORM distribution, keeping things simple and lightweight.
- Pricing Models
- SCORM Cloud: Pricing is generally based on registrations (number of learners launching content).
- SCORM Dispatch: Pricing is typically based on monthly active users, which can be more predictable for some providers.
- Complexity
- SCORM Cloud: Feature-rich, but sometimes more complex than smaller content providers need.
- SCORM Dispatch: Built to be straightforward—clients can get set up quickly without unnecessary extras.
- Customisation
- SCORM Cloud: Out-of-the-box features, but less focus on tailored dispatch messaging.
- SCORM Dispatch: Allows customisation of learner-facing messages and branding, giving more control over the learner experience.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need broad standard support (xAPI, cmi5, AICC) and want an established tool with many features, SCORM Cloud may be the right choice.
- If your main requirement is SCORM course distribution with control, simplicity, and cost predictability, then SCORM Dispatch may be a better fit.
Final Thoughts
Both SCORM Cloud and SCORM Dispatch aim to solve the same core problem: helping content providers share courses with clients while retaining control. The best choice depends on the size of your business, the standards you need to support, and the level of complexity you want to manage.
Ultimately, both solutions are valuable—it’s about selecting the one that aligns with your strategy.
Powered by Froala Editor