If you’re an aspiring instructional designer, mastering the right tools is essential for building engaging eLearning experiences, interactive courses, and professional portfolios. Whether you're creating animations, designing assessments, or recording voiceovers, having the right software in your toolkit can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll explore 11 must-have tools for instructional designers, covering everything from eLearning authoring to project management. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your skills, these tools will help you create top-notch learning experiences.

1. Articulate Storyline 360 – Powerful eLearning authoring tool for interactive courses
2. Adobe Captivate – Versatile tool for VR & responsive eLearning
3. iSpring Suite – All-in-one eLearning authoring & LMS tool
4. Camtasia – Screen recording & video editing software
5. Vyond – Animation software for explainer videos
6. Canva – Easy-to-use graphic design tool
7. Audacity – Free audio recording & editing software
8. Trello – Project management tool for organizing learning projects
9. Google Forms – Simple assessment & feedback tool
10. ChatGPT – AI-powered assistant for content generation & brainstorming
11. Lectora – Advanced eLearning authoring tool for complex course development
12. Genially – Interactive content creation Tool for engaging learning experiences

Why Tools Matter for Instructional Designers

Instructional design is a mix of creativity, technology, and learning science. The right tools help designers:

• Develop engaging learning experiences – Tools like Articulate Storyline and Adobe Captivate allow for interactive course creation.
• Enhance visual appeal – Canva and Vyond help create professional graphics and animations.
• Streamline content development – AI tools like ChatGPT can speed up brainstorming and content creation.
• Improve project management – Trello and Miro help organize tasks and collaborate with teams.
• Ensure high-quality multimedia – Camtasia and Audacity support video and audio editing for polished courses.

Using the right combination of tools ensures instructional designers can create effective, engaging, and accessible learning content.

Comparison Table: Best Instructional Design Tools

Detailed Breakdown of the 12 Best Instructional Design Tools

1. Articulate Storyline 360

A must-have for eLearning professionals, Articulate Storyline 360 is an industry-leading authoring tool used to create interactive, engaging courses.

Key Features:

• Drag-and-drop interactions

• Built-in templates and assets

• SCORM and xAPI support

• Responsive player for mobile learning

Pros:
✅ Easy to use for beginners
✅ Robust interactions and assessments
✅ Strong community support

Cons:
❌ Expensive
❌ Can have a learning curve for complex interactions

Pricing: $1,399/year (free trial available)

Best For: Aspiring instructional designers wanting to create interactive courses.

2. Adobe Captivate

Adobe Captivate is a powerful tool for creating responsive eLearning, including VR-based training and mobile-friendly courses.

Key Features:

• VR & 360° eLearning
• Fluid Boxes for responsive design
• Software simulations

Pros:
✅ Great for mobile learning
✅ VR capabilities
✅ Supports multiple formats

Cons:
❌ Steeper learning curve
❌ Higher price for individuals

Pricing: $33.99/month (free trial available)

Best For: IDs looking to create mobile-friendly and immersive learning experiences.

3. Best All-in-One eLearning Authoring & LMS Tool: iSpring Suite

iSpring Suite is a powerful, user-friendly eLearning authoring tool that seamlessly integrates with PowerPoint, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced instructional designers alike. With built-in templates, interactive quizzes, and a full-fledged Learning Management System (LMS) integration, iSpring simplifies course creation while ensuring SCORM compliance.

Key Features:

• PowerPoint-based eLearning authoring

• Interactive quizzes, dialogue simulations, and role-plays

• Text-to-speech and screen recording tools

• SCORM, xAPI, and HTML5 support for LMS compatibility

• Cloud storage and collaboration for teams

Pros:

✅ Familiar PowerPoint interface makes it easy to learn
✅ Built-in LMS compatibility for seamless publishing
✅ Supports a wide range of interactive elements

Cons:

❌ Limited customization compared to tools like Storyline or Captivate
❌ Requires a Windows PC (no native Mac version)

Pricing: Starts at $770/year (free trial available)

Best For: Instructional designers who want an easy-to-use eLearning authoring tool with LMS capabilities and strong PowerPoint integration.

4. Best Screen Recording & Video Editing Tool for Course Creators: Camtasia

Camtasia by TechSmith is a go-to solution for instructional designers who need a reliable tool for screen recording, video editing, and interactive learning content. Whether you're creating software tutorials, training videos, or interactive quizzes, Camtasia offers a simple, intuitive interface with professional-grade features.

Key Features:

• High-quality screen recording and webcam capture

• Built-in video editor with transitions, effects, and animations

• Interactive quizzes and hotspots for learner engagement

• Extensive asset library (templates, music, and icons)

• Direct export to YouTube, Vimeo, and LMS platforms

Pros:

✅ Intuitive drag-and-drop editing, great for beginners
✅ Supports quizzes and interactivity within videos
✅ One-time purchase (no ongoing subscription required)

Cons:

❌ Can be expensive for those only needing basic editing
❌ Limited advanced animation features compared to dedicated tools like Vyond

Pricing: $299 one-time purchase (free trial available)

Best For: IDs who create video-based training, software demonstrations, or want to add interactive elements to learning content.

5. Best Animation Software for Explainer Videos: Vyond

Vyond allows instructional designers to create animated videos for training.

Key Features:

• AI-powered animations
• Lip-sync and character movements
• Pre-made templates

Pros:
✅ Professional-looking animations
✅ Saves time compared to custom animation

Cons:
❌ Subscription-based
❌ Learning curve for beginners

Pricing: Starts at $49/month

Best For: IDs who want to create engaging animated videos.

6. Best Graphic Design Tool for Non-Designers: Canva

Canva is a simple yet powerful graphic design tool perfect for non-designers.

Key Features:

• Drag-and-drop editor

• Templates for presentations and infographics

• Free and paid design elements

Pros:
✅ Very easy to use
✅ Free version available

Cons:
❌ Limited advanced editing features

Pricing: Free, Pro at $12.99/month

Best For: IDs creating visually appealing course assets.

7. Best Free Audio Editing Tool for Voiceovers & Podcasts: Audacity

A free, open-source tool for recording and editing audio.

Key Features:

• Multi-track editing

• Noise reduction

• Free to use

Pros:
✅ Free and lightweight
✅ Powerful audio editing

Cons:
❌ UI looks outdated

Pricing: Free

Best For: IDs needing high-quality voiceovers.

8. Best Project Management Tool for Organizing Learning Projects: Trello

Trello is a flexible and easy-to-use project management tool that helps instructional designers keep track of tasks, deadlines, and collaboration efforts.

Key Features:

• Kanban boards for organizing projects

• Drag-and-drop task management

• Customizable lists, labels, and deadlines

• Collaboration with teams in real-time

Pros:
✅ User-friendly interface
✅ Free version is robust for solo use
✅ Helps keep multiple projects organized

Cons:
❌ Can become cluttered with complex projects
❌ Lacks built-in advanced reporting

Pricing: Free for basic use, Premium starts at $10/month

Best For: Instructional designers managing multiple projects, clients, or course development timelines.

9. Best Interactive Content Creation Tool for Engaging Learning Experiences: Genially

Genially is an innovative tool for creating interactive presentations, infographics, eLearning content, and job aids—all without needing coding or design skills. It’s perfect for instructional designers who want to add engaging, gamified elements to their courses while keeping them visually appealing and highly interactive.

As an IDOL Academy partner, Genially provides students with library access to premium templates, giving them a head start in designing dynamic learning materials.

Key Features:

• Interactive Presentations & Infographics – Create engaging, clickable content for learners
• eLearning & Gamification – Design escape rooms, quizzes, and branching scenarios
• Drag-and-Drop Interface – No coding required, making it beginner-friendly
• LMS Compatibility – SCORM export for seamless integration into learning platforms
• Collaboration & Cloud Storage – Work in teams and access projects from anywhere

Pros:

✅ Easy to use, even for non-designers
✅ Adds interactive and gamified elements to training content
✅ SCORM-compatible for LMS integration
✅ Free access for IDOL Academy students

Cons:

❌ Limited customization compared to more advanced authoring tools
❌ Some premium features require a paid plan outside of IDOL Academy

Pricing: Starts at $167/year (IDOL Academy students get free library access)

Best For: Instructional designers who want to create visually rich, interactive learning experiences without needing advanced design or coding skills.

10. Best Free Assessment & Feedback Tool: Google Forms

Google Forms is a simple but powerful tool for creating assessments, collecting feedback, and gathering learner insights.

Key Features:

• Create quizzes, surveys, and feedback forms

• Auto-grading for quizzes with multiple-choice answers

• Integration with Google Sheets for data analysis

• Completely free with unlimited responses

Pros:
✅ Easy to use and share
✅ Works seamlessly with Google Workspace
✅ Great for quick learner assessments

Cons:
❌ Limited customization for advanced assessments
❌ Not ideal for complex test designs

Pricing: Free

Best For: IDs who need a quick, simple way to create quizzes, surveys, and learner feedback forms.

11. Best AI-Powered Content Creation & Brainstorming Tool: ChatGPT

ChatGPT is an AI-powered assistant that can help instructional designers generate content, brainstorm course ideas, and speed up the design process.

Key Features:

• Generates course outlines, scripts, and content

• Assists with brainstorming learning activities

• Helps with research and summarizing information

• Can create engaging quiz questions and scenarios

Pros:
✅ Saves time on content creation and planning
✅ Helps with idea generation and overcoming creative blocks
✅ Free version available with essential features

Cons:
❌ Requires human oversight for accuracy
❌ Doesn’t integrate directly with ID tools (yet)

Pricing: Free, Pro version for $20/month

Best For: IDs looking for a productivity boost when developing course content, brainstorming ideas, or refining learning materials.

12. Best Advanced eLearning Authoring Tool for Complex Course Development: Lectora

Lectora is a powerful, industry-leading eLearning authoring tool designed for creating highly interactive, accessible, and SCORM-compliant courses. Unlike other tools that focus on drag-and-drop simplicity, Lectora excels at responsive design, advanced interactivity, and accessibility compliance, making it ideal for instructional designers who need full control over their course content.

IDOL Academy is proud to partner with Lectora, giving students free access to this premium software so they can develop real-world skills in one of the most widely used authoring tools in corporate learning.

Key Features:

• Responsive Course Design – Automatically adjusts layouts for desktop, tablet, and mobile
• Advanced Interactivity – Custom branching, variables, and conditions for adaptive learning experiences
• Accessibility Compliance – WCAG and Section 508 standards for inclusive learning
• Built-in Asset Library – Stock images, templates, icons, and characters for rapid course development
• SCORM, xAPI, and AICC Support – Seamless LMS integration

Pros:

✅ Highly customizable for advanced instructional designers
✅ Strong accessibility and compliance features
✅ Cloud-based and desktop versions available
✅ Free access for IDOL Academy students

Cons:

❌ Steeper learning curve compared to Articulate Storyline or iSpring
❌ Higher price for individual users outside of IDOL Academy

Pricing: Starts at $1,404/year (IDOL Academy students get free non-commercial access)

Best For: Instructional designers looking for a highly customizable, professional-grade eLearning authoring tool with advanced interactivity and accessibility compliance.

How IDOL Academy Helps You Master These Tools

Stop struggling with software—we’ll show you how to design attractive and interactive courses, even if you aren’t techie.

IDOL Academy’s technical training lessons provide step-by-step tutorials on industry-preferred tools, ensuring you know how to bring your instructional design concepts to life. Along the way, you'll earn software-specific badges that can boost your portfolio and LinkedIn profile, proving your expertise to employers.

Tools You’ll Get Hands-On Training In at IDOL Academy

💻 eLearning Authoring & Development:
✅ Storyline® for IDOLs℠ – Articulate Storyline® Skilled (Design interactive and engaging eLearning experiences)
✅ Articulate Rise – Step-by-step tutorials for creating responsive eLearning
✅ Lectora – Hands-on training for instructor-led training and eLearning development

🎬 Video & Animation:
✅ IDOL® Movie Magic™ – Professional Vyond® Animations (Create high-quality 2D animated videos)
✅ Camtasia Skilled – Learn to record and edit professional training videos

🎨 Graphic & Interactive Design:
✅ IDOL℠ 💚 Canva® Skilled – Canva Pro training with built-in IDOL templates
✅ Genially® for IDOLs℠ – Genially® Skilled (Create interactive images, infographics, and eLearning content)

🎧 Audio Editing:
✅ Audacity – Learn to clean up and edit professional voiceovers

🕶 Virtual Reality (Coming Soon!):
✅ CenarioVR – Hands-on training for VR-based eLearning

Free Access to Premium Software – Save $7,500+ in Licensing Costs

Your IDOL Academy enrollment includes complimentary individual licenses for must-have design tools, letting you practice, build a portfolio, and even complete paid projects—without extra software expenses.

✔ 3D animation & course authoring with WeAre Learning – $2,499/year
✔ eLearning authoring with Lectora & Asset Library – $1,404/year
✔ VR course authoring with CenarioVR – $4,788/year
✔ Interactive content creation with Genially library access – $167/year
✔ 2D animation authoring with Vyond library access – $1,099/year
✔ Canva Pro account on Canva Campus with IDOL templates – $119.99/year

Total value: $7,577.99 per year – FREE for IDOL students!

By the time you complete IDOL Academy, you won’t just understand instructional design concepts—you’ll have real-world experience using the software that top companies expect IDs to know.

Where to Start: Choosing the Right Tools for Your Needs

With so many instructional design tools available, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. If you're just starting out, you don’t need to master all 11 tools right away. Instead, focus on a beginner’s toolkit that covers the essentials:

Beginner’s Toolkit (Start Here!)

✅ Articulate Storyline 360 or iSpring Suite – For creating interactive eLearning courses
✅ Canva – For designing professional-looking course assets, presentations, and infographics
✅ Audacity – For editing voiceovers and cleaning up audio
✅ Google Forms – For building simple quizzes, assessments, and feedback surveys
✅ Trello – For organizing your instructional design projects and tasks

Once you feel comfortable with these, you can explore more advanced tools like:

• Vyond & Camtasia – To add high-quality animations and video to your courses
• Miro – For visual brainstorming, storyboarding, and course mapping
• Adobe Captivate – If you want to specialize in responsive eLearning and VR-based training
• ChatGPT – For accelerating content creation, brainstorming ideas, and generating scripts

💡 Pro Tip: Many of these tools offer free trials, and if you're an IDOL Academy student, you'll get free access to premium tools like Vyond, Canva Pro, and Lectora to practice without extra costs.

By starting small and focusing on the core tools you actually need, you’ll build strong foundational skills that will make it easier to learn more advanced software as you progress in your instructional design career.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tools can set you up for success in instructional design. Whether you're building eLearning courses, creating graphics, or managing projects, these 11 tools will help you become an effective instructional designer.

What tools do you use?