SmartBuilder
Course authoring software
Talent management software
Training eLearning software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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$139 per author per month
Free Trial
Free version unavailable
Small
Medium
Large
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What is SmartBuilder
SmartBuilder is a cloud-based eLearning course authoring tool used to design interactive training content for web delivery. It targets instructional designers and training teams that need to build scenario-based modules, quizzes, and branching interactions without custom development. The product emphasizes reusable templates and a visual logic/branching approach to create adaptive learning paths. It is typically used alongside an LMS or training platform for distribution and tracking.
Strong branching and logic
SmartBuilder supports conditional logic and branching that helps teams build scenario-based training and decision-driven modules. This is useful for compliance, sales, and customer service simulations where learner choices change the path. The visual approach reduces the need for custom scripting compared with simpler slide-based tools. It can help standardize complex interactions across a course library.
Template-driven content creation
The platform provides reusable templates and interaction patterns that speed up development for common training use cases. Teams can apply consistent layouts, question types, and interaction structures across multiple courses. This supports faster iteration when content changes frequently. It also helps maintain consistency when multiple authors contribute.
Web-based collaboration workflow
As a browser-based authoring environment, SmartBuilder supports distributed teams working on course development. Centralized project storage reduces reliance on local files and manual version exchanges. This fits organizations that need repeatable production processes for internal training. It aligns with workflows where authoring is separate from LMS delivery.
Not a full LMS
SmartBuilder focuses on authoring rather than end-to-end training administration. Organizations typically still need an LMS for enrollment, assignments, certifications, and analytics. This adds integration and operational overhead when compared with platforms that combine authoring and delivery. Reporting is generally dependent on the delivery system used.
Learning curve for advanced logic
While templates help with basic modules, building complex branching and conditional behaviors can require specialized authoring skills. Instructional designers may need time to learn the tool’s logic model and best practices. This can slow initial rollout for teams new to scenario-based design. Governance is often needed to keep complex projects maintainable.
Limited talent management scope
Although it supports training content creation, it does not typically cover broader talent management functions such as performance reviews, succession planning, or compensation workflows. Companies seeking an all-in-one talent suite will likely need additional systems. This can create fragmented employee development data across tools. Integration effort may be required to connect learning content to HR processes.
Plan & Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| SmartBuilder (Annual) | $1,399 per author/year (billed annually) | All authoring features, growing template library, HTML5 responsive output, SCORM/AICC/xAPI export, free lesson hosting with one-click upload, exceptional live support, free training, updates/upgrades, install on PC or Mac. Volume discounts apply for annual subscriptions (see notes). |
| SmartBuilder (Monthly) | $139 per author/month (billed monthly) | Same features as annual; month-to-month billing, credit card required, no annual commitment. |
Notes:
- Volume discounts (annual subscriptions): 1–4 licenses $1,399.00; 5–9 (10% discount) $1,259.00; 10–14 (15% discount) $1,189.00; 15+ (20% discount) $1,119.00.
- Non-profit price listed: $1,299.00 (annual). Contact vendor for additional non-profit discounts.
- SmartTracker (optional tracking/reporting service) offers a Base plan (0–25 active learners) that is free and is included with a SmartBuilder author subscription; paid SmartTracker tiers are available (e.g., Medium $199, Large $399, X-Large $599) billed monthly (see SmartTracker pricing).
