Five classifications of Learning Management Systems (LMS)

There are lots and lots of Learning Management Systems (LMS) on the market. From my observation, I have categorised LMS based on the business motivation to create and offer them to the market:

1. LMS that are part of a larger ERP system (e.g. SAP). These LMS appear almost an afterthought, an ‘add on’ to the massive database that ERP systems create. In my experience they are characterised by complex, clunky functionality for both administrators and end users. The purchase decision is often made by the people in charge of the ERP system itself.
2. LMS that are part of a suite of HR Systems (e.g. SumTotal, Saba, Cornerstone). These LMS are meant to provide a straight-forward end-user experience of managing learning and performance. The data provides HR with information on talent and skill gap.
3. LMS that are specialised and boutique (e.g. imc Clix, InterAction Pulse and Ecampus ). These are often feature-rich for learning and are generally proactive in offering solutions for mobile learning and performance support.
4. LMS whose foundation is the disseminate off-the-shelf content (e.g. SkillSoft SkillPort).
5. LMS that support the content of authoring tools (e.g. Savv-e Express).

 
Although these 5 classifications are not absolute, what’s interesting is that the motivation of the supplier to create, refine, enhance and sell the LMS are different. It’s all about keeping to core business.

When purchasing a LMS, there are some important questions to ask the supplier. These questions will help separate the suppliers who are passionate about their LMS system from those who are not:

• What is your vision & mission?
• What is your learning philosophy, and how does your LMS support this philosophy?
• What system design features make your LMS intuitive to new users?
• What feature improvements are you rolling out over the next 2 years, and what is the timeline of these?
• Where do you see the future of LMS?

 
The more aligned the LMS is to your learning philosophy and strategy (e.g. formal, informal, social, self-directed, certified, performance support, anytime/anywhere learning) the better the fit for your business.

• How many Australian organisations have you implemented this version of the LMS? How were they similar in size and operating system to us? Can I contact a referee?

 
The more local organisations are using the LMS in question, the more likely the supplier is geared to support your implementation.

Connect Thinking offers a full LMS requirements scoping workshop to uncover your specific LMS needs. Contact us to find out more.