How do I Share Data From Training & Technical Publications?

Sharing data from training and technical publications so that your organization can reuse the information typically involves adhering to the Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) requirements. This model includes technical standards and specifications. SCORM requirements ensure that content can be shared using any SCORM-compliant Learning Management System (LMS). These accessible and interoperable systems allow you to share data from training, technical and other types of instructional information you publish. Follow these guidelines to improve the efficiency, consistency and quality of data you publish.

• 1

  Download the Advanced Distributed Learning Guidelines for Creating Reusable Content from the SCORM resources website. Click the "Content Examples" link from that website to obtain sample code. For example, the Data Model Content Example helps you understand how to use data model elements to create training and technical publications that conform to SCORM requirements. The example shows how to code so that navigation choices, such as previous and next page options, can be communicated to an LMS.

• 2

  Organize your training and technical catalog hierarchy. For example, use your product list to leverage an existing system your employees may be familiar with using on a day-to-day basis. Set up five levels of information named "division," "family," "model," "type" and "file name." Use this hierarchy to classify all new information so the data can be shared most effectively throughout your organization.

• 3

  Write programming code using your existing systems to integrate your operations, such as product life cycle management, supply chain operations and customer relationship management. Managing training instructions and technical data, such as parts and diagnostic information, allows your technicians to operate more effectively.

• 4

  Download the free SCORM Sample Run-Time environment and Test Suite software to test your applications that share data from training and technical publications. You should be able to locate and access components from multiple locations. Publications developed in one system should be usable in another. Using the SCORM model, you shouldn't have to re-design, re-code or re-configure your application when technology changes.

• 5

  Test access to data loaded into your systems. Ensure that your users have the required software or web browser plug-ins to open supplemental documents. For example, training reference guides, maintenance manuals, service bulletins and marketing information can be loaded as Portable Document File format files. The Adobe Reader software can be downloaded for free from the Adobe website so that your users can open the PDF files to get access to training and technical publications. Identify and remove duplicate and obsolete training and technical publications.