A key Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL) operational capability stated in the Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) is to construct and reuse self-contained and reusable instruction, or shareable content objects (SCOs) suitable for student learning needs. In a recent review of lessons learned from the ADL Prototype Program, Stout, Slosser, and Hays (2001) cited this as a high priority issue. Night vision training is an application area in which the ability to develop and reuse instructional content and media for different night vision devices across diverse user groups results in significant economies of effort. This training area serves as an effective test bed for evaluating strategies and techniques for developing and defining SCOs that can be effectively reused. Since all service components and many government agencies use similar night vision devices, and most service branches have continuous operations (24/7) requirements, SCOs developed for one organization or user group are usually relevant for other branches and services for innumerable mission essential tasks. In other words, SCO applicability is nearly universal, but there are caveats. In this paper, we review our experience developing a series of computer-and web-based night vision training products and provide examples of successes and challenges in developing and reusing SCOs. Key lessons learned include: (1) a SCO is a dynamic construct; (2) a SCO product must be both content- and user-centered; (3) a SCO must include learning objectives, main and embedded topics identified, operational definitions, a glossary, and an abbreviation/acronym list; (4) an organized library of text and multimedia is essential; (5) an "all-knowing champion" to orchestrate the finding, assembling, and reworking of SCOs to meet new user's needs and organizational requirements is essential; and (6) ADL developers must budget sufficient time and resources to tailor appropriate SCOs for users other than the original target audience. We discuss the implications of our work for the ADL initiative.