Five Mistakes to Avoid When Working with Subject Matter Experts

Working with subject matter experts (SMEs) isn’t always the easiest part of developing an e-learning course. Subject matter experts can sometimes be demanding. And they can even (unintentionally) be barriers to success, if they are uninterested in the development process or instructional design standards. But they play an important role for you as an e-learning developer.

The truth is, you and your subject matter experts need each other! They possess information you need to solve their problem—it’s symbiosis! The bottom line is, when it comes to developing an e-learning course, it’s your job to maintain a positive relationship with your subject matter experts.

Here are five mistakes to avoid when working with subject matter experts.

Mistake #1: Not Defining Good E-Learning

After working in the field of e-learning for many years, it’s easy to forget that not everyone knows what good e-learning is! This is especially true when you’re working with subject matter experts. More often than not, the subject matter experts you work with are not in the learning and development field.

When working with subject matter experts, don’t make the mistake of assuming they know what good e-learning looks like. They might have a vague idea about the concepts of computer-based training, their knowledge might be five, 10, or 15 years out-of-date. When you first meet with your subject matter experts, make a point to educate them about what good e-learning looks like. Show them examples of your work, and encourage them to ask questions. Don’t end that meeting until you’re on the same page!

Mistake #2: Not Educating Them About the Development Process

Just like mistake number 1, it’s easy to assume your subject matter experts understand the overall e-learning development or project management process. Although your subject matter experts may have been involved in many different projects, that’s no guarantee they’ll understand things like storyboards, prototypes, or review cycles.

When working with subject matter experts, don’t make the mistake of failing to educate them about the e-learning development process. During your initial meetings, take the time to explain the development process and the purpose behind it. Explain what they should expect during each phase of the process, and explain any terms they may not understand. Taking the extra time to educate your subject matter experts not only makes your life easier, it also demonstrates your expertise and builds credibility.

Mistake #3: Not Clarifying Their Role

Not all subject matter experts are the same: some like to be heavily involved, and others barely have time to respond to your work. Either way, it’s your job to clarify what role they play in the e-learning development process. As I mentioned earlier, you and your subject matter expert need each other. They possess the information you need to solve their problem. Your job is to get it from them (hopefully without being too much of a pest).

When working with subject matter experts, don’t make the mistake of letting them make assumptions. When you fail to set expectations with your subject matter experts, you run the risk of losing control of the project, or finding they have disengaged all together. Make sure to explain to your subject matter experts what you need from them when you deliver a storyboard for review, or the frequency in which you need to meet. Doing this establishes accountability and ensures your subject matter experts play an active role throughout the project.

Mistake #4: Not Providing Clear Deadlines

Because many subject matter experts have never been involved in the development of an e-learning course, they can underestimate the time and commitment required from them. Many subject matter experts simply believe their job is to tell you what they want and wait for the final product. Because of this, they may fail to dedicate the time required to participate in the development process. You can show them a better way, but they will likely need your guidance.

When working with subject matter experts, make sure they have a clear understanding of any deadlines they are responsible for. Do this by creating a project schedule that indicates who is responsible for each deliverable. Share this with you subject matter experts and give them the opportunity to compare it against their schedule and workload. Be willing to let them alter the dates if necessary. It’s always better to workout kinks in the project schedule as early as possible.

Mistake #5: Not Discussing Their Goals

Too often, subject matter experts think of e-learning in terms of what learners need to be “aware of.” In reality, learners don’t need to “be aware” of anything! What learners really need is the knowledge, skills, and practice to change or emulate specific behaviors. This is important because behaviors tend to have a direct correlation to a business result and can be measured against a goal.

When working with subject matter experts, don’t make the mistake of not discussing their goals for the course. What measurable results are your subject matter experts hoping to achieve as a result of learners taking the course? Even if they can’t answer that question, it shows you’re interested in helping them achieve positive business results.

How else do you set yourself up for success when working with subject matter experts? Share your tips by commenting below!

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