When it comes to creating online courses, Thinkific is a powerful platform, but it is not the only tool I rely on.
In this blog post, I am going to walk you through the different apps and platforms I use alongside Thinkific to create more interactive, engaging, and effective learning experiences for my students.
These tools are not about course design and creation (although I use a bunch for that too, let me know in the comments if you would like a video on that!). Instead, we will focus on how I support my learners once the course is live.
Want to See These Tools in Action?
Check out the video above where I walk through real examples of how each app looks and functions inside a Thinkific course.
Want to See These Tools in Action?
Check out the video above where I walk through real examples of how each app looks and functions inside a Thinkific course.
Why Go Beyond Thinkific?
While Thinkific provides a solid foundation for delivering online courses, adding a few extra tools can seriously level up the experience for both you and your students.
Whether it is about adding interactivity, collecting better feedback or understanding how students engage with your content, these tools help me do it all.
1. Google Slides (for interactive lessons)
Sometimes, I want to go beyond static text or video.
I embed Google Slides into Thinkific text lessons to create clickable, scrollable content right within the course platform.
Students can work through lessons at their own pace while interacting with visual elements that break up the monotony of reading.
Tip: Use the embed code from your Google Slides and insert it into a text lesson on Thinkific to display the presentation directly inside your course.
2. Articulate Rise & Storyline (for scenario-based learning)
2. Articulate Rise & Storyline (for scenario-based learning)
Interactive lessons really shine when they mimic real-world decision-making.
That is where Articulate Rise and Storyline come in.
Rise allows me to create scrollable, engaging lesson modules.
Storyline lets me build scenario-based activities, where learners make choices and receive instant feedback based on their decisions.
These tools help reinforce learning through critical thinking and real-time application.
3. Google Forms (for learner feedback)
3. Google Forms (for learner feedback)
Thinkific does offer a built-in survey feature, but I prefer Google Forms because:
- I get notified when a response is submitted
- It is easier to manage and track responses over time
- I can structure it across multiple pages or keep it all on one, totally customisable
Students can complete the form inside the Thinkific course thanks to the multimedia lesson option.
4. YouTube Videos (for additional content)
Sometimes, it is helpful to link out to additional resources or embed YouTube videos directly into the course.
This allows me to keep content fresh and easily update or replace material as needed.
5. Zoho Suite (for website & email management)
I use Zoho for my website where all my courses are listed. It also powers my email communications with students.
From my website, learners can click through to Thinkific landing pages to enroll in courses.
It is a great way to tie everything together and keep branding consistent across platforms.
6. Google Analytics & Mixpanel (for data and insights)
Through the Thinkific App Store, I have connected Google Analytics and Mixpanel to gain deeper insight into:
- How people are landing on my course pages
- What links they are clicking on
- Where they drop off
Understanding learner behaviour helps me continually optimise my courses and funnels.
Bonus: Thinkific App Store
Thinkific also offers a range of integrations through its App Store.
Categories include:
- Learning Experience
- Marketing
- Selling & Payments
- Site Design
Right now, I am exploring more of the Learning Experience apps and would love to test out new ones and share my thoughts with you!
If there is an app you are curious about, whether it is for interactive content, analytics, or anything else, write a comment and I will happily create a video walking you through it.
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
Supporting your students does not end once your course is live, it is just the beginning.
By using the right mix of tools alongside Thinkific, you can create richer, more interactive learning experiences, streamline your own workflows and stay better connected with your audience.
From embedding Google Slides and scenario-based activities with Articulate, to simplifying feedback with Google Forms and gaining insights through analytics, each platform plays a part in making your course more effective and engaging.
Start with what feels manageable, and add as you grow. Your students (and future self) will thank you for it.
Want to Level Up Your Course with These Tools?
If you are building or growing your online course and wondering how to bring in more interactivity or support your learners better, you are not alone.
Book a free 15-minute brainstorm session with me, and let’s talk through your ideas.
I will help you figure out which tools might work best for your course and audience.
