Finding an LMS That Suits Your Needs
Choosing the right e-learning platform is important, and can be daunting, as there are many systems on the market. In addition to the platform itself, and often more important, is the ongoing service and support provided. Choose a LMS provider with a proven track record, as well as the resources and infrastructure in place to maintain your system, provide call centre support and offer academy management and content creation services if required.
Devices
Will your learners will be accessing the online content through a mobile device or a PC? User experience and interface vary between the two and it’s important to find a system that is responsive to your needs. Also, do your users require the use of a shared device? If so, then a LMS company which is able to source and install suitable hardware is important.
Data & Reporting
Selecting a system that properly collects all relevant data and provides the reporting you require is critical to the long-term success of the platform. Tiered reporting and the ability of a learning management system to integrate with your existing HR systems is important.
Content
The way training materials are delivered is important, as types of content and file formats can impact the platform choice. For example, if webinars are to be used, an event calendar will be required for scheduling classes and allowing learners to book. If this is part of your strategy, be sure that the LMS can incorporate this component. An e-learning system is pointless without effective, up-to-date content, so a provider which offers a full range of services and is able to offer quality custom content creation is worth considering.
Control
The administration and management of your online training system is crucial. If you do not have a dedicated person on your team who is responsible for, and capable of, managing users, updating content and permissions, monitoring usage and overseeing all the aspects necessary to keep the system running smoothly, then you must choose an LMS provider which offers that service. Most of the time, the cost will be far less than trying to manage it all in-house.
Not all LMS platforms and providers are equal. Request demos of their product, see how long they have been in business and which companies use them. Find out the services they offer, in addition to the software itself, and where they and their support team are based. The importance of choosing a provider that can provide the right service for you is key to the success and longevity of your online learning academy.
