SCORM is an acronym that stands for "Shareable Content Object Reference Model". It basically defines how e-learning content and e-learning systems should interact.

SCORM is a collection of specifications and standards which were put together from many sources to provide a comprehensive solution for e-learning that needs to support interoperability, accessibility and reuse of Web-based learning content.

When an LMS (Learner Management System) or e-learning content is SCORM conformant, it means that it meets the requirements listed in the SCORM Conformance Requirements. This implies that all SCORM conformant content must be able to run on any SCORM conformant LMS for example.

For more information on this, please feel free to visit http://www.adlnet.gov

What is the benefit of a SCORM compliant training system?

In our interconnected global community, the e-learning marketplace is filled with probably hundreds of vendors of SCORM compliant courseware and content management systems. Companies who use e-learning courseware benefit from this as they can maximize their investment by potentially pulling together all these various ingredients to "custom make" their own e-learning solution.

Vendors of content management systems (also known as CMS') are fully aware of this, and therefore do everything in their power to make sure their solution will be able to cater for this need. By following guidelines and standards such as SCORM and AICC, vendors can take one more steps towards making sure their product will survive in the e-learning environment.

When it comes to delivering SCORM complaint courseware in training systems, vendors also know that their product will be able to be incorporated into SCORM compliant content management systems or learner management systems (LMS'), and therefore be more lucrative for companies who have already invested in SCORM compliant LMS' or CMS'.