Summary
Getting your content to learners effectively is just as important as creating it. This comprehensive guide covers every sharing and distribution method in 7taps, from simple link sharing to enterprise integrations with LMS systems. You'll learn when to use each method, how to optimize delivery for different audiences, and best practices for maximizing engagement through strategic distribution.
What you'll master:
All 8+ sharing methods and when to use each one
Custom messaging strategies that boost engagement rates
Enterprise integration options (SCORM, xAPI, SSO)
Mobile-first distribution for frontline workers
Advanced sharing techniques for complex organizations
Troubleshooting common distribution issues
Table of Contents
The Strategic Importance of Distribution
The best training content in the world is worthless if people can't access it easily. 7taps removes traditional barriers to learning access - no mandatory app downloads, no complex logins, no IT approval processes. But choosing the right distribution method for your audience can mean the difference between 95% engagement and 15% engagement.
Key principle: Meet learners where they already are, not where you want them to be.
Distribution directly impacts:
Completion rates: Easy access = higher completion
Time-to-application: Faster access = quicker behavior change
Organizational adoption: Seamless distribution = wider usage
ROI measurement: Better tracking = clearer business impact
Instant Sharing Methods
Direct Link Sharing
What it is: A static URL that provides immediate access to your course with no barriers.
Best for:
Quick sharing with specific individuals
Testing courses before broader distribution
Including in emails, documents, or presentations
One-time training sessions
How to use:
Open your course in 7taps
Click "Share"
Click "Link"
Click "Copy shareable link"
Share via any communication channel
Advantages:
✅ Works on any device with internet
✅ No app installation required
✅ Immediate access - learners click and start
✅ Works across all operating systems
✅ Can be shared through any communication channel
Considerations:
Link access means anyone with the URL can view the course
No automatic learner tracking unless combined with other methods
Links don't expire (unless you disable sharing)
QR Code Distribution
What it is: A scannable code that instantly opens your course on mobile devices.
Best for:
Physical environments (offices, manufacturing floors, retail locations)
Events and conferences
Print materials and posters
Frontline worker training
Situations where typing URLs is impractical
How to generate:
In the Share menu, click "QR"
Download the QR code image
Add to print materials, digital displays, or presentations
Strategic use cases:
Retail: QR codes on employee bulletin boards for product training
Manufacturing: Safety reminders posted at workstations
Healthcare: Compliance updates in break rooms
Events: Session handouts with follow-up learning links
Best practices:
Include brief text explaining what the QR code leads to
Test QR codes on different devices before printing
Make QR codes large enough for easy scanning (minimum 2cm x 2cm)
Include backup URL for accessibility
Platform-Based Distribution
Email Distribution
What it is: Send course links directly to learners' inboxes with custom messaging.
Best for:
Cross-organizational initiatives
External learners (customers, partners, vendors)
Formal training announcements
Mixed audiences (internal + external)
Scheduled delivery campaigns
Setup process:
Share → "Email"
Add learner email addresses (individual or bulk paste)
Customize subject line and message
Send immediately
Email best practices:
Subject Line Optimization:
✅ "3-minute safety update - complete by Friday"
✅ "New product training: What changed in 2024"
❌ "Training module" or "Please complete this course"
Message Content Strategy:
Why now: Explain the business context
What's in it: Brief description of content and time commitment
Expected outcome: What they'll be able to do afterward
Deadline (if applicable): Clear completion expectations
Engagement optimization:
Send from a recognizable sender name
Include your organization's branding
Add a clear call-to-action button
Follow up with non-responders after 1 week
Slack Integration
What it is: Native integration that delivers courses through Slack workspaces.
Best for:
Tech-forward organizations with active Slack usage
Team-based learning initiatives
Informal, social learning environments
Companies with remote/hybrid workforces
Setup requirements:
7taps Enterprise plan
Team admin must connect Slack
Slack administrator approval for 7taps app
Distribution process:
Share → "Slack"
Connect your Slack workspace (one-time setup)
Select channels or send direct messages
Courses deliver through 7taps bot to individual learners
Strategic advantages:
High visibility - learners see notifications immediately
Workflow integration - learning happens where work happens
Mobile-friendly - works perfectly on Slack mobile apps
Best practices:
Use relevant channels (#sales-training, #safety-updates)
Include context in Slack message about course purpose
Pin important training announcements in channels
Follow up with course completion reminders
Microsoft Teams Integration
What it is: Direct delivery through Microsoft Teams for enterprise environments.
Best for:
Enterprise organizations using Microsoft ecosystem
Formal learning initiatives
Corporate compliance training
Organizations with strict security requirements
Setup requirements:
7taps Enterprise plan
Each team member must connect individual Teams account
Organization must allow third-party Teams integrations
Integration process:
Share → "Microsoft Teams"
Connect your Teams account (individual setup required)
Select teams or individuals for delivery
Courses send from your personal Teams account
Enterprise considerations:
Works with Teams mobile apps for frontline workers
Use a MS Teams service account for easier management and delivery
Use cases:
Corporate training: Leadership development for managers
Compliance: Required training with completion tracking
Product updates: Sales team enablement through Teams channels
Remote teams: Consistent training delivery across time zones
SMS/Text Message/WhatsApp Distribution
What it is: Send course links directly to learners' mobile phones via text message.
Best for:
Frontline workers without regular computer access
High-priority, urgent training needs
Mobile-first audiences
Situations requiring immediate attention
Setup and delivery:
Share → "SMS"
Add phone numbers (include country codes)
Customize SMS message (character limit applies)
Send immediately for urgent content
When SMS excels:
Retail associates: Product updates during shift changes
Field technicians: Safety alerts and procedure updates
Healthcare staff: Critical protocol changes
Manufacturing: Equipment updates and safety reminders
SMS optimization strategies:
Keep messages under 160 characters when possible
Include clear action items ("Complete 3-min safety update")
Use urgent language for time-sensitive content
Consider carrier restrictions and delivery timing
International considerations:
Verify country code formatting (+1 for US, +44 for UK, etc.)
Be aware of international SMS restrictions
Consider time zones for global distribution
Test delivery with international numbers before broad rollout
Enterprise Integration Options
SCORM Export
What it is: Export courses as SCORM-compliant packages for LMS integration.
Best for:
Organizations with existing LMS infrastructure
Compliance requirements for formal training records
Integration with HR systems and performance management
Large enterprises with established learning technology stacks
Export process:
Share → "Export" → "SCORM"
Download SCORM package (.zip file)
Upload to your LMS following their import procedures
Assign to learners through LMS workflows
SCORM capabilities:
✅ Completion tracking
✅ Quiz scores and attempts
✅ Time spent in course
✅ Learner progress data
❌ Limited interactivity compared to native 7taps experience
LMS compatibility: Works with major LMS platforms including:
Cornerstone OnDemand
Workday Learning
SAP SuccessFactors
Moodle
Canvas
Blackboard
When to use SCORM:
Compliance training: Required records for audit purposes
Formal certification: Integration with credentialing systems
HR integration: Connect learning data with performance reviews
Existing workflows: When LMS is central to learning operations
xAPI Integration
What it is: Advanced tracking standard that captures detailed learning analytics.
Best for:
Organizations wanting detailed learning analytics
Modern learning technology stacks
Custom learning record systems
Advanced reporting and business intelligence needs
xAPI advantages over SCORM:
More detailed tracking of learner interactions
Works across multiple systems and platforms
Better support for informal and social learning
Real-time data streaming capabilities
Setup requirements:
Learning Record Store (LRS) configured in your organization
xAPI endpoint configuration in 7taps
Technical team support for initial setup
Single Sign-On (SSO) Configuration
What it is: Allow learners to access courses using existing organizational credentials.
Best for:
Enterprise security requirements
Streamlined user experience
Centralized identity management
Organizations with strict access controls
SSO setup process:
Configure SAML settings
Provide Entity ID and Consumer URLs to your Identity Provider
Test authentication flow with pilot group
Deploy to full organization
Supported identity providers:
Azure Active Directory
Okta
ADFS
Google Workspace
Custom SAML configurations
Benefits:
Single login for all organizational tools
Automatic user provisioning and deprovisioning
Enhanced security through centralized authentication
Simplified user experience
Mobile and Frontline Distribution
Mobile-First Distribution Strategy
Why mobile matters:
73% of frontline workers use mobile devices as their primary work tool
Mobile completion rates are 2x higher than desktop for micro-courses
Instant access removes barriers to just-in-time learning
Mobile optimization checklist:
✅ Test all sharing methods on mobile devices
✅ Ensure QR codes work with various camera apps
✅ Optimize sharing messages for mobile screens
✅ Consider data usage for video-heavy content
Frontline Worker Distribution
Unique challenges:
Limited access to computers or corporate email
Shared devices among multiple workers
Varying levels of digital literacy
Time constraints during shift work
Recommended distribution methods:
Primary: QR Codes
Post in break rooms, time clock areas, bulletin boards
Include on shift handouts and safety notices
Add to equipment and workstation signage
Secondary: SMS Distribution
Direct delivery to personal phones
Works across all mobile carriers
No app installation required
Backup: Direct Links
Include in shift emails (if available)
Share through supervisor communication
Post on internal websites or portals
Implementation strategy:
Pilot with supervisors: Test distribution methods with team leads
Multiple touchpoints: Use 2-3 distribution methods simultaneously
Clear instructions: Include simple "how to access" guidance
Support system: Train supervisors to help with access issues
Retail and Service Industry Optimization
Peak time considerations:
Schedule delivery outside busy periods
Use urgent SMS for time-sensitive safety updates
Leverage QR codes for self-paced access during breaks
Multi-location coordination:
Standardize QR code placement across locations
Centralize SMS distribution from corporate
Train location managers on sharing procedures
Custom Messaging and Engagement
The Psychology of Learning Invitations
Traditional approach (low engagement):
"Please complete the attached training module by Friday."
High-engagement approach:
"Master the 3 techniques that help our top sales reps close 40% more deals. This 4-minute course shows you exactly what they do differently."
Custom Message Framework
Hook (Why should I care?):
Business impact or personal benefit
Specific, measurable outcomes
Urgency or relevance to current work
Content (What am I getting?):
Time commitment (be specific - "4 minutes," not "short")
Format and approach ("interactive scenarios," not "training")
Key takeaway or skill they'll gain
Call to Action (What do I do next?):
Clear next step ("Click the link below")
Timeline expectations ("Complete by Wednesday")
Support information (if needed)
Message Templates by Use Case
New Product Launch:
"🚀 Product Update: [Product Name] launches Monday
Get the 5 key talking points customers are asking about. This 3-minute interactive guide shows you how to handle the top objections before they happen.
Complete before your next customer call: [LINK]"
Safety Training:
"⚠️ Critical Safety Update - Complete Today
New equipment requires different handling procedures. This 2-minute course prevents the most common injuries we've seen at other sites.
Required before next shift: [LINK]"
Skills Development:
"💡 Master the technique 89% of our managers use for difficult conversations
Practice the exact framework in realistic scenarios. Most people finish in 5 minutes and use these techniques the same week.
Start your practice: [LINK]"
Compliance Reinforcement:
"📋 Quarterly Compliance Check - New Scenarios Added
Test your knowledge with real situations from recent audits. Takes 3 minutes and keeps our certification current.
Complete by month-end: [LINK]"
A/B Testing Message Effectiveness
Test these elements:
Subject lines (urgency vs. benefit-focused)
Message length (short vs. detailed)
Call-to-action language ("Complete" vs. "Start" vs. "Practice")
Sending time (morning vs. afternoon)
Sender name (individual vs. company)
Key metrics to track:
Open rates (for email distribution)
Click-through rates (link clicks)
Course completion rates
Time from distribution to completion
Advanced Distribution Strategies
Multi-Channel Distribution
Strategy: Use multiple distribution methods simultaneously for maximum reach and reinforcement.
Example implementation:
Week 1: Email announcement with course link
Week 1: QR codes posted in common areas
Week 2: Slack reminder for non-completers
Week 2: SMS follow-up for critical roles
Week 3: Manager-led discussion referencing course content
Benefits:
Accommodates different learning preferences
Increases visibility and urgency
Provides multiple access points
Reinforces importance through repetition
Progressive Distribution
Strategy: Roll out content in phases based on role, location, or readiness.
Phase 1: Leaders and Champions
Send to managers and influential team members first
Gather feedback and testimonials
Identify potential issues before broader rollout
Phase 2: Early Adopters
Target engaged learners and volunteers
Use their positive experiences for social proof
Refine distribution based on initial feedback
Phase 3: Broad Distribution
Deploy to full audience using optimized approach
Leverage success stories from earlier phases
Focus on supporting resisters and laggards
Contextual Distribution
Strategy: Deliver learning at the moment of maximum relevance and need.
Just-in-Time Examples:
Sales: Product training sent immediately after lead assignment
Customer Service: De-escalation techniques triggered by complaint volume
Safety: Equipment training delivered before maintenance tasks
Compliance: Policy reminders sent before audit periods
Implementation approaches:
Integrate with workflow systems (CRM, help desk, scheduling)
Use triggers based on business events
Automate delivery based on performance data
Connect with calendar systems for scheduled delivery
Geographic and Cultural Considerations
Multi-location distribution:
Consider time zones for scheduled delivery
Adapt messaging for regional cultures
Use local champions for promotion
Account for different technology adoption rates
International considerations:
Translate custom messages when needed
Respect cultural norms around communication styles
Consider local holidays and business practices
Test distribution methods in each region
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Low Engagement Rates
Symptoms:
Low click-through rates on shared links
High course abandonment rates
Delayed completion times
Minimal participation despite multiple reminders
Common causes and solutions:
Unclear value proposition:
❌ "Complete your training"
✅ "Learn the 3-step process that reduces customer complaints by 60%"
Poor timing:
❌ Sending during busy periods or off-hours
✅ Schedule delivery at optimal times for your audience
Access friction:
❌ Requiring multiple logins or app downloads
✅ Use direct links and QR codes for instant access
Lack of relevance:
❌ Generic content for diverse audiences
✅ Segment distribution by role, location, or need
Technical Distribution Problems
Email delivery issues:
Check: Spam filters blocking 7taps emails
Solution: Whitelist noreply@7taps.com domain
Prevention: Use recognizable sender names and clear subject lines
SMS delivery failures:
Check: Phone number formatting (include country codes)
Solution: Test with smaller groups before mass distribution
Prevention: Verify carrier compatibility in your region
Integration problems:
Check: SCORM/xAPI configuration settings
Solution: Work with LMS administrator to verify import process
Prevention: Test with single course before bulk exports
Mobile access issues:
Check: Course content loads properly on mobile devices
Solution: Optimize images and videos for mobile bandwidth
Prevention: Test all content on various mobile devices before sharing
Manager and Leadership Buy-in
Challenge: Getting supervisors to support and promote distribution efforts.
Solutions:
Show early results: Demonstrate engagement and business impact data
Provide manager tools: Scripts for promoting courses to their teams
Include managers first: Let them experience the content before their teams
Connect to performance: Link learning to performance review conversations
Manager communication template:
"Hi [Manager Name],
Your team will receive [Course Name] this week. It covers [specific skills] that directly impact [business metric].
Here's how you can support completion:
Mention it in your next team meeting
Ask team members what they learned after completion
Connect the content to upcoming projects/challenges
Questions? I'm here to help: [contact information]"
Distribution Best Practices by Industry
Healthcare
Primary methods: SMS for urgent updates, QR codes in break rooms Timing: Avoid shift change periods, schedule for mid-shift breaks Messaging: Focus on patient safety and regulatory compliance Special considerations: HIPAA compliance, infection control protocols
Example approach:
Critical updates via SMS to all staff immediately
QR codes posted in nurses' stations for ongoing education
Email summaries to department heads for oversight
Manufacturing
Primary methods: QR codes at workstations, SMS for safety alerts Timing: Beginning of shifts, during planned breaks Messaging: Emphasize safety, efficiency, and quality improvements
Special considerations: Loud environments, shared devices, safety priorities
Example approach:
Safety reminders via SMS before high-risk activities
Process updates through QR codes at relevant equipment
Supervisor emails for broader communications
Retail
Primary methods: QR codes on bulletin boards, SMS for product updates Timing: Before shifts, during slower business periods Messaging: Customer service focus, product knowledge, sales techniques Special considerations: High turnover, varied schedules, customer-facing priorities
Example approach:
New product training via SMS to sales associates
Customer service refreshers through break room QR codes
Manager emails for broader policy updates
Technology/Office Workers
Primary methods: Slack integration, email campaigns, direct links Timing: Mid-morning or early afternoon for best engagement Messaging: Innovation, efficiency, skill development Special considerations: Tool fatigue, preference for integrated workflows
Example approach:
New feature training through Slack channels
Professional development via email campaigns
Just-in-time help through integrated direct links
Sales Teams
Primary methods: Email with custom messages, SMS for urgent updates Timing: Early morning before calls, end of week for skill development Messaging: Revenue impact, competitive advantage, quota achievement Special considerations: Travel schedules, quota pressure, results-focused culture
Example approach:
Product updates via email with revenue impact messaging
Competition intel through SMS alerts
Skill development via scheduled email series
Measuring Distribution Success
Key Performance Indicators
Distribution Metrics:
Delivery success rate: % of intended recipients who received the content
Click-through rate: % who clicked the link after receiving it
Time to first access: How quickly learners engage after distribution
Channel effectiveness: Which distribution methods drive highest engagement
Engagement Metrics:
Course completion rate: % who finish the entire course
Average completion time: How long learners spend in content
Interaction rate: Engagement with quizzes, polls, and activities
Return rate: % who access the course multiple times
Business Impact Metrics:
Knowledge retention: Quiz scores and follow-up assessments
Behavior change: Observable performance improvements
Process compliance: Adherence to new procedures
Business results: Impact on relevant KPIs (sales, safety, quality)
Analytics Dashboard Insights
Access 7taps analytics:
Open course → "Statistics" tab
View completion rates, response data, and engagement patterns
Export data for deeper analysis
Track trends over time
Key reports to review:
Completion by distribution method: Which channels work best?
Geographic performance: How do different locations compare?
Time-based patterns: When do learners engage most?
Content effectiveness: Which sections drive highest engagement?
Optimization Based on Data
Low completion rates:
Test different distribution methods
Revise custom messaging for clarity and urgency
Check for access barriers or technical issues
Survey non-completers to understand obstacles
High engagement but low retention:
Add follow-up reinforcement content
Create application opportunities
Connect to manager conversations
Implement spaced repetition campaigns
Uneven adoption across groups:
Identify successful practices from high-performing groups
Provide additional support to struggling areas
Adapt distribution methods to group preferences
Address cultural or structural barriers
Continuous Improvement Process
Monthly review cycle:
Analyze distribution data from past month
Identify top-performing approaches and scale them
Address underperforming channels or abandon them
Test new approaches with small pilot groups
Document lessons learned for future campaigns
Quarterly strategic review:
Assess overall distribution effectiveness against business goals
Update distribution strategies based on organizational changes
Plan new distribution capabilities or tools
Share best practices across teams and departments
Key Takeaways
✅ Meet learners where they are - Choose distribution methods based on your audience's work environment and preferences
✅ Custom messaging drives engagement - Generic invitations get ignored; specific, benefit-focused messages get action
✅ Multi-channel approach works best - Use 2-3 distribution methods simultaneously for maximum reach
✅ Mobile-first is essential - Ensure all distribution methods work seamlessly on mobile devices
✅ Test and optimize continuously - Use data to refine your distribution strategy over time
✅ Integration amplifies impact - Connect 7taps with existing workflows and systems for seamless adoption
Remember: The best content won't create behavior change if people can't access it easily. Strategic distribution is just as important as strategic content creation.
Related Resources
Getting Started Series:
Welcome to 7taps: Your Complete Getting Started Guide - Platform overview and orientation
Your Complete Course Creation Journey - Building engaging microlearning content
Overview of 7taps Features - Video walkthrough of platform capabilities
Advanced Sharing:
Learning Paths Mastery Series - Strategic sequencing and spaced learning distribution
Team Management and Collaboration - Coordinating distribution across teams
Advanced Analytics and Reporting - Measuring distribution and engagement success
Technical Integration:
LMS Integration Guide - SCORM and xAPI setup details
SSO Configuration - Enterprise authentication setup
Need help with distribution strategy for your specific use case? Contact our Customer Success team for personalized guidance.