As a SmartBuilder user for a number of years, it's become my default tool not only for learning content authoring, but also as a sketchpad and sandbox for experimenting with new and innovative learning experiences and approaches. Unlike some other authoring tools, SmartBuilder doesn't try to push you down particular design paths through templates or pre-set interactions, but instead offers a sophisticated and flexible tool-set to build your own. Despite this, it's still both an easy tool to learn and powerful enough to be pushed hard. Finally, their support team are second to none. Enthusiastic and expert support is always available over chat and email. I'm even on first name terms with a few of the support team as they've helped me find ways to solve design and coding problems. Often they will take a problem of mine and share a solution as a personal screen-grab video or usable project file. No other tool has got close.

SmartBuilder provides a great deal of flexibility in the way that one builds a course. Many tools provide only a single way of building an interaction or force you to use predefined, scripted, elements within a course. SmartBuilder provides many of these types of pre-built items; but, they are there to be used by only if you want to do so and not because there is no other way.. For example, there are quiz question templates and drag and drop templates that are ready to be used; but, you can easily use the software's building tools to create your own.

Like most of us, I like to work smarter, not harder. SmartBuilder is the "smarter not harder" worker's best friend. Pre-SmartBuilder, I spent several years working with other rapid authoring tools and SmartBuilder, oh how I love thee. Let me count the ways! As another reviewer mentioned, with SmartBuilder you aren't limited to a narrow, linear format when creating eLearning courses. With literally anything I can think up, SmartBuilder can help me make it happen. The simplicity and flexibility of the logic for automations is unparalleled. If you are comfortable with "If, then" logic and have a reasonable sense of design, you will pick this up quickly. The richness and authenticity of the interactive and simulation elements that I'm able to build using their branching scenarios has really improved the relevance of the courses I'm able to produce. SmartBuilder offers templates that are great for new users or if you're in a time crunch. You can also build your own templates, which is a game changer. I can establish design elements within a course and disseminate to other courses in a given learning path without any extra steps or copying and pasting. SmartBuilder makes it incredibly easy to create versatile content that can be consumed on a mobile device or computer - with no extra effort on the part of the author. As if all of this amazing, easy-to-learn, versatile functionality isn't enough, the support and service that I've received is top notch. These guys really care if my projects are a success and get excited when I get excited. The live chat support is stellar, and the SmartBuilder crew are quick to hop on a call and offer their assistance. The synchronous tutoring sessions are super valuable; the team (thanks, Nav, Rob, and crew!) works hard to make sure that what you learn during these sessions is relevant to your use case. In short, there is absolutely nothing like this product on the market. If you've gotten frustrated with the few popular rapid authoring options (or if you like them fine but you're ready to up your game and want more options when authoring), SmartBuilder is your buy. Hands down.