K12 Content Digitization: The Most Important Decision You’ll Need to Make

Let’s start at the very beginning. Some say it’s a very good place to start :). When you digitize content, it begins with choosing the right software tool. Fortunately, or unfortunately, there are so many tools to choose from! It’s all a bit overwhelming at times. Isn’t it?

Don’t worry, we’re here to help you make this decision with a little more confidence. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of choosing an ePublishing software right from the basics to what it should enable you to achieve.

Additionally, if you're not yet at this stage, go back to our previous article in order to crystalize the vision for your digital transformation.?

Now, onto decision making!

Laying the Groundwork

As we all know, a good foundation leads to a studier structure. The same applies while choosing a software tool. Here’s how you can go about it.?

Determine Your Needs:

While this may sound obvious, a good way to go about it is to consider both your current and future goals. Assess the absolutely essential features you need to have. Think about your current infrastructure and capabilities. Then consider the number of readers/students you eventually wish to have and see if your software options have the ability to scale up easily.?

Do Your Research:

Once you’ve shortlisted a few tools, read user reviews, try and speak to a few customers, and sign up for a demo session (if available). Specifically look for platforms with a proven track record of success in the education sector.

Check for Compatibility:

Depending on who you wish to reach, you need to check for compatibility in terms of file formats, operating systems and devices your audiences prefer. In an era where students access content across a multitude of hardware and software, compatibility ensures their learning process is not hampered due to technology or the lack of it!

In addition to compatibility, it helps if your software can support file conversions such as PDF to ePub, MOBI to ePub, ePub to PDF and so on.

Training and Support:

Look for software providers that offer training and support to help you get the most out of your investment. Consider the availability of training resources, customer support, and user communities.

With the groundwork laid, you can now look at a few additional features you may want to consider.

Essential Features of a Publishing Software

As you know, K12 publishers are not expected to change the curriculum. Instead, you are expected to rethink the ways of delivering the same curriculum, innovatively.??

Below are a few essential software features that cater to the needs of school-going students, K12 educators and most importantly, you, the publisher.

Graphic & Editing Tools:

It goes without saying that holding the attention of young learners is easier with visually appealing content. Choose a publishing software that gives you a wide range of graphic and editing tools. The wider the range, the more flexibility you have to make the syllabus student friendly.

Multimedia & Interactivity:

Both multimedia and interactive elements can help deliver K12 curriculum in a more creative and engaging manner.? Videos, audio, animations and images help bring the content to life. Interactive elements such as quizzes, games, slideshows and annotations keep youngsters engaged, thereby improving learning outcomes.

A Digital Library:

As the name suggests, this feature allows users to create a digital library or an online bookshelf. Essentially, it helps educators store, categorize and locate all their learning resources. It also lets them distribute their content easily amongst their students.?

Since digital libraries can be mobile-friendly, if your chosen software has this feature, it can be of great value to your end-customers.

In-built Authoring:

If there’s one way to make life easier for yourself, it’s by using a software that has in-built authoring capabilities. With this feature you and your content creators do not need additional files to create eBooks.?

You can opt to build your eBook from scratch, right from the software platform itself. Else, even if you do have existing content, with in-built authoring you can edit it, along with your team.?

Conclusion

With that we hope you’re in the mindset for tea, a drink with jam and bread (Sorry, couldn’t resist. IYKYK).?

What we mean is, we hope you’re in a better position to choose the right publishing platform for your needs.?

If you still have questions, feel free to ask them in the comments. You can also download our in-depth guide for more such insights.

Thanks for reading!

With over 5 million active users, KITABOO is a high-scale digital textbook platform that helps you create, publish & distribute your educational content.?