A learning management system (LMS) is a software application for delivery and administration of online courses, virtual instructor-led training, training materials and training programs. There are hundreds of LMS on the market and selecting an LMS can be bewildering.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself about a learning management system (LMS):
- What business objectives do you hope to address?
- First and foremost, An LMS needs to align with your business objectives. This strategic view of LMS links competencies, training and performance in support of your business objectives.
- What types of training need to be supported; e.g., self-paced; real time; blended learning?
- Do you need to setup training portals for customers or divisions in your organization?
- Do you need to create content within the LMS?
- What forms of external content need to be supported (e.g. SCORM. xAPI)?
- What systems need to be integrated (e.g., Hubspot, Shopify)?
- What “must have” and “nice to have” functionality do you need now and potentially in the future? (Yes, you need to use your crystal ball.)
- And finally, what is your budget? (This helps weed out a lot of options.)
Hal can help you answer these questions, and ones you’ve yet to think about. He has 25 years of facilitating learning management system procurements in markets such as intergovernmental organizations, civil service departments, certifying organizations and private sector training companies. He has seen people trying to procure the Starship Enterprise while going down the rabbit hole of endless requirements.
An LMS needs to fit the budget of the organization; meet key business needs; avoid unnecessary expenses; as well as prevent and avoid problems down the line.
Take a look at Hal’s LMS Procurement Services and LMS Procurement Case Studies