Choosing the right platform for course co-production is one of the most critical decisions in launching a successful online course. The platform determines how you host, sell, and manage your course, impacting everything from student experience to revenue generation. With many options available, it’s essential to understand the key features and differences between platforms to find the best fit for your project.
What to Look for in a Course Co-Production Platform
When selecting a platform, consider the following factors:
- Ease of Use – The platform should be user-friendly for both course creators and students.
- Customization Options – Some platforms allow more flexibility in branding and course design.
- Marketing and Sales Features – Look for built-in tools like email marketing, sales funnels, and affiliate programs.
- Pricing and Fees – Compare costs, including monthly fees, transaction fees, and revenue splits.
- Student Engagement Tools – Features like quizzes, discussion forums, and certificates improve student experience.
- Integration with Other Tools – The ability to connect with external software, such as email automation or payment processors, can be valuable.
Top Course Co-Production Platforms
1. Teachable
Teachable is one of the most popular platforms for online courses, offering a balance of ease of use and powerful features. It allows co-producers to manage revenue splits easily, making it ideal for partnerships. Key benefits include:
- Simple drag-and-drop course builder
- Built-in payment processing and tax handling
- Affiliate marketing and coupon features
- Supports multiple instructors and co-producers
2. Thinkific
Thinkific is a great option for those who want more control over course design and branding. Unlike Teachable, it offers more customization without requiring technical skills. Some of its advantages include:
- No transaction fees on paid plans
- Highly customizable course websites
- Strong student engagement tools, such as communities and quizzes
- Flexible pricing plans, including a free tier
3. Kajabi
Kajabi is an all-in-one platform designed for entrepreneurs who want to create and scale online businesses. It combines course hosting with powerful marketing automation, making it ideal for co-producers who focus on sales and funnels. Key features include:
- Advanced email marketing and automation
- Built-in website and landing page builder
- Membership site capabilities
- Higher price but includes a full suite of business tools
4. Podia
Podia is a simple, cost-effective platform that is great for beginners in course co-production. It offers unlimited courses and students without transaction fees. Key benefits include:
- Easy-to-use interface
- No transaction fees
- Built-in email marketing
- Live chat support for creators
5. Udemy
Udemy is a marketplace rather than a standalone course platform, meaning it provides built-in traffic and exposure for courses. However, it comes with limitations on pricing and branding. It is best for co-producers who want to focus on course creation rather than marketing. Benefits include:
- Access to a massive audience
- No upfront costs (Udemy takes a revenue share)
- Less control over pricing and student interactions
6. Gumroad
Gumroad is an alternative for creators who want to sell courses independently without a traditional learning management system (LMS). It’s a good choice for co-producers who prefer direct sales and minimal platform interference. Features include:
- Simple course and digital product sales
- Flexible pricing models (one-time purchases, subscriptions)
- No complex LMS features, but great for marketing flexibility
7. LearnWorlds
LearnWorlds is a highly interactive platform that includes tools for gamification, interactive videos, and student engagement. It is well-suited for co-producers looking to create high-quality, interactive courses. Key benefits include:
- Advanced student engagement tools
- Gamification features to improve learning experience
- Customizable branding and design
How to Choose the Best Platform for Your Needs
When selecting a course co-production platform, consider your specific needs and goals:
- For Beginners: Podia and Thinkific offer simple setups with minimal upfront investment.
- For Maximum Customization: Thinkific and LearnWorlds allow greater control over branding and course structure.
- For All-in-One Business Solutions: Kajabi provides advanced marketing and automation features.
- For Large Audiences: Udemy gives access to a ready-made audience but with pricing limitations.
- For Independent Sellers: Gumroad is best for selling courses with minimal platform restrictions.
Final Thoughts
The right course co-production platform depends on your business model, marketing strategy, and technical needs. While platforms like Teachable and Thinkific are great for most co-producers, those looking for more control may prefer Kajabi or Gumroad. Choosing wisely ensures a smooth experience for both creators and students, setting the foundation for a successful online course business. Stay tuned for the next article, where we will explore how to market a co-produced course effectively.