Learning management systems (also known as LMS software) are important for mid-sized organizations and above who are looking to systematically manage the learning and development of their staff.
Manage and track staff training with an LMS
Training administration can be time-consuming and difficult, particularly in medium to large organizations with many staff working in different roles across a variety of physical locations. The right learning management system (LMS) can streamline this administrative effort, making it easy to ensure each staff member receives the appropriate training as well as helping manage the classrooms, instructors, equipment and other resources needed to deliver the courses.
Facilitate e-learning with an online learning platform
Much has been written about the benefits of e-learning, and while an LMS is not essential to implementing online learning it can often make it easier to manage and deploy. Some LMS solutions include tools to help author e-learning courses, and almost all decent systems can easily import courses in various industry standard formats (e.g. SCORM) that have been created using separate authoring tools. An LMS often provides a single, branded portal for e-learning delivery.
Consolidate all training information into one system
There are significant benefits to having all your training information in a single, consolidated system. At a glance you can review and report on the status of company-wide training programs, identify staff who have completed certain qualifications, and much more. Rather than having to search through several disparate systems and paper files to find what you need, the right LMS puts all training information at your fingertips.
Reduce training costs with an LMS
While achieving the right training outcomes is critical for talent development and training programs, it goes without saying that cost is always top-of-mind too. The right LMS system can reduce your training costs in a variety of ways, including enabling the cost-savings of e-learning (e.g. less travel, accommodation more work time available, lower teaching costs, etc) as well as streamlining the administration of training programs across your organization.
Improve compliance with regulatory requirements
Another major reason for investing in an LMS is to better comply with the various regulatory requirements that apply to your industry and organization. For instance, safety programs are a common use for LMS solutions as it enables you to easily demonstrate that all appropriate staff are up-to-date on the required certification and training. If your organization operates within a highly regulated environment, chances are an LMS is worth considering for compliance reasons alone!
About the Author
Xavier Russo is the Marketing Director and co-founder of Software Shortlist. He has been a freelance strategy & marketing consultant; worked for management consulting firms such as Booz & Co and Gemba Group; and led the marketing team that launched online art community RedBubble.com.
