learning management system (LMS)

A learning management system can be thought of as a large repository that allows users to store and track information in one place. Any user with a secure login and password can access the system and its online learning resources. Or, if the system is self-hosted, the user must either install the software on their hard drive or access it through their company’s server.

Some common features found in a successful LMS include:

Responsive design – Users should be able to access the LMS from whatever type of device they choose, whether it’s a desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphone. The LMS should automatically display the version best suited for the user’s chosen device. Additionally, the LMS should also allow users to download content so it is accessible while offline.

User-friendly interface – The user interface (UI) should enable learners to easily navigate the LMS platform. The UI should also align with the abilities and goals of both the user and the organization. An unintuitive UI risks confusing or distracting users and will make the LMS ineffective.

Reports and analytics – This includes eLearning assessment tools. Instructors and administrators must be able to view and track their online training initiatives to determine if they are effective or need adjusting. This can be applied to groups of learners and individuals.

Course and catalog management – The LMS holds all the eLearning courses and the related course content. Admins and instructors should be able to create and manage these catalogs and courses in order to deliver a more targeted learning experience.

Content interoperability and integration – Content created and stored in an LMS must be packaged in accordance with interoperable standards, including SCORM and xAPI.

Support services – Different LMS vendors offer varying levels of support. Many provide online discussion boards where users can connect and help each other. Additional support services, such as a dedicated toll-free service number, are available for an extra cost.

Certification and compliance support – This feature is essential to systems used for online compliance training and certifications. Instructors and admins should be able to assess an individual’s skill set and identify any gaps in their performance. This feature will also make it possible to use LMS records during an audit.

Social learning capabilities – Many LMSes have started including social media tools within their platform. This allows users to interact with their peers, collaborate and share their learning experiences.

Gamification – Some LMSes include game mechanics or built-in gamification features that allow instructors and admins to create courses with extra motivation and engagement. This can help students who need additional incentive to complete the course, possibly in the form of leaderboards, points and badges.

Automation – Learning management systems should enable administrators to automate repeated and tedious tasks. Examples include user grouping, new user population, user deactivation and group enrollments.

Localization – It is important for LMSes to include multilingual support features so the learning and training content can remain unaffected Artificial intelligence (AI) – Finally, artificial intelligence can help an LMS create personalized learning experiences for users by providing course formats suited to their needs, and by suggesting topics the user may find interesting based on the courses they have already completed.