Digital course co-production is one of the fastest-growing opportunities in the online education space. It allows experts to share their knowledge while co-producers handle the behind-the-scenes strategy, tech, and marketing. But like any business, it comes with challenges. Many beginners underestimate these obstacles and struggle to move forward, while experienced co-producers know that overcoming them is part of the journey.
In this article, we’ll explore the top challenges in digital co-production and provide practical solutions to help you navigate them successfully.
Challenge 1: Finding the Right Expert Partner
The success of a co-production depends heavily on the expert you collaborate with. The wrong partner can cause stress, delays, and poor results.
Why it happens:
- Many experts are unmotivated or inconsistent
- Some lack an engaged audience
- Others expect you to do all the work without commitment
Solutions:
- Vet experts carefully before agreeing to work together
- Look for people with proven knowledge, an existing audience, and a willingness to collaborate
- Start with a smaller project or pilot launch before committing to long-term deals
- Trust your instincts — if communication feels off, don’t force it
Challenge 2: Managing Expectations
Experts often have big dreams for their course, but not always a realistic understanding of the time, effort, or investment required.
Why it happens:
- They expect “overnight success”
- They underestimate the work behind launches
- They confuse co-producers with assistants or freelancers
Solutions:
- Use contracts to clearly define roles and responsibilities
- Outline timelines and possible obstacles from the start
- Communicate honestly about what’s achievable based on resources and audience size
Challenge 3: Handling the Tech Overload
Digital courses require multiple tools: platforms, funnels, email systems, video hosting, and more. This can overwhelm new co-producers.
Why it happens:
- Too many tools with overlapping features
- Constant updates and learning curves
- Pressure to “use everything”
Solutions:
- Start with simple, reliable tools like Systeme.io, Teachable, or Hotmart
- Master a few platforms deeply instead of dabbling in many
- Use automation (Zapier, Make) to reduce manual work
- Document processes so you don’t reinvent the wheel each time
Challenge 4: Launch Stress and Burnout
Launches often involve long hours, deadlines, and pressure to deliver results.
Why it happens:
- Multiple moving parts (emails, ads, webinars)
- Experts may procrastinate, causing last-minute rushes
- Co-producers often try to handle everything themselves
Solutions:
- Break tasks into smaller steps with clear deadlines
- Schedule buffer time for unexpected delays
- Outsource tasks like video editing or design
- Practice self-care — launches are marathons, not sprints
Challenge 5: Irregular Income
Unlike traditional jobs, co-production income is not fixed. A big launch might generate thousands one month, followed by little the next.
Why it happens:
- Relying only on live launches
- Working with only one expert
- Not planning for long-term sustainability
Solutions:
- Build evergreen funnels to generate consistent income
- Work with multiple experts to diversify revenue streams
- Mix revenue-share projects with smaller flat-fee or retainer agreements
- Save a portion of launch profits to cover lean months
Challenge 6: Marketing That Doesn’t Convert
Even with great content, poor marketing can sink a launch.
Why it happens:
- Weak messaging or unclear positioning
- Not enough pre-launch buzz
- Generic sales pages or emails
- No testing or data tracking
Solutions:
- Validate course ideas before full production
- Focus on copywriting and storytelling that speaks to pain points
- Use testimonials, case studies, and bonuses to boost conversions
- Track metrics and adjust campaigns based on performance
Challenge 7: Balancing Control and Collaboration
Sometimes co-producers feel they’re carrying all the weight, while experts feel sidelined. Striking the right balance can be tricky.
Why it happens:
- Lack of clear communication
- Different working styles
- Misaligned goals or values
Solutions:
- Hold weekly check-ins to align progress and responsibilities
- Use project management tools for transparency
- Respect each other’s expertise — co-producers handle strategy, experts handle teaching
- Create shared goals and celebrate wins together
Challenge 8: Scaling Beyond One Project
Many co-producers hit a ceiling: they’re great at running one course but struggle to scale their business.
Why it happens:
- Doing everything manually
- Relying on one partnership
- No systems or team in place
Solutions:
- Build repeatable systems and templates
- Hire freelancers or assistants for repetitive tasks
- Work with multiple experts in the same niche
- Consider creating your own course on co-production to scale your expertise
Final Thoughts: Challenges Are Opportunities in Disguise
Every co-producer faces obstacles, from finding the right expert to managing tech, income, and expectations. The difference between those who succeed and those who quit is mindset.
See challenges as opportunities to grow. Each obstacle teaches you a skill that makes you more valuable — whether it’s negotiating contracts, managing tools, or scaling your business.
The truth is, co-production is not “easy money.” It’s a business that requires resilience, creativity, and strategy. But for those who stick with it, the rewards — financial, professional, and personal — are worth every challenge.