What to consider when choosing an LMS

Picking the right learning management system (LMS) for your organization’s unique needs is essential to ensuring the future success of your training and onboarding plans.

Learning management systems are a powerful eLearning tool, facilitating a seamless online learning or onboarding experience for your organization. Finding the right LMS platform gives your end users an all-in-one education portal where they can access various online training courses and company community forums to achieve genuine results.

There are many important aspects to consider when choosing an LMS, as investing in the wrong LMS platform for your organization can have long-lasting consequences – both in terms of lost time, frustrated team members, and wasted investment money.

A brief introduction to the
most important things to consider
when choosing an LMS

Your learning management system can make or break your training and education programs. The right LMS can customize learning options to suit your unique needs, keeping both learners and instructors happy and engaged. A good LMS helps you keep track of progress, manage certificates, and protect important info, reducing headaches and keeping things legal. As your organization expands, your LMS should grow with you, adding needed functionality and adapting to your team’s needs.

What you need from your LMS: How to set goals and measure success

Most companies looking for a new LMS are trying to improve productivity, speed up onboarding times, manage and monitor upskilling, reduce costs, decrease employee turnover, and increase profits. Setting SMART goals not only helps you keep an eye on your organization’s progress, but it also helps to accurately assess the success of your LMS.

First, make your goals Specific – be crystal clear about what you want to achieve with the LMS, like improving employee training or enhancing student performance.

Next, ensure they’re Measurable – establish concrete metrics to track progress, like a percentage increase in course completion rates.

Third, keep them Achievable – set realistic targets that align with your resources and capabilities.

Then, make sure they’re Relevant – your goals should align with your organization’s broader objectives and needs.

Lastly, set a Timeframe – define a clear deadline for when you expect to see results, such as achieving a certain improvement within six months. SMART goals help you stay focused, track progress, and assess whether your new LMS is making the impact you intended.

The LMS selection process: How to choose an LMS in 4 simple steps

With over 600 LMS platforms currently on the market, it can be incredibly overwhelming to choose which one to invest in.

The most important thing to keep in mind is: what do you need? What are the features that are absolute must-haves to your operation? What are the nice to have features? Once you know what the non-negotiable functionalities and basic requirements are, it’s time to follow these four steps that will help you choose the right LMS for you.

Take a look through our simple guide on how to choose an LMS, so you’ll be able to recognise the best LMS when you find it!

Identify your audience

Every organization has different needs, and not every learning management system is going to suit everyone. Make sure your LMS serves your target audience by determining the following:

  • Who are you training?
  • What are their needs?
  • What do they respond to?
  • Does the LMS support their style of learning and learning goals?
  • Do they prefer mobile learning? Blended learning? Social learning?

For example: Are you going to be focused on employee onboarding, sales training, employee training, franchisee training, or education courses? All of these require an LMS, but they all need very different functionality and features to keep their users and their admins happy.

Pay attention to features

Sophisticated LMS features are the difference between a worthwhile online learning experience and one that frustrates end users. Your LMS should have:

  • A simple and intuitive interface – how easy is it to use? Does it include video tutorials? Does the support team show you how to set it up or do it for you?
  • Communication and collaboration tools
  • Assessments, analytics and reporting features
  • Comprehensive learning portals
  • The ability to integrate supportive apps or gamification to increase productivity
  • A customized interface, featuring your organization’s branding
  • Monetization options
  • Extensive integration options – does it play well with your current programs and software?
  • SCORM and xAPI compliance – this is a basic functionality most companies require
  • Course creation options – does it support your course creation process and assets?

Evaluate each LMS available to you

There are over 600 learning management systems to choose from. Once you know what features are the most important to you, gather a list of LMS providers which  cater to the needs of your organization.

Then, schedule an LMS demo with the top 5 LMS vendors that feel right for you. It’s the quickest way to get the answers to your questions. You’ll also get a good feel for how they interact with their customers:

  • Do you feel confident they could solve any issues you may run into?
  • Are there any hidden costs with using their service?
  • Is there a license fee? Is it pay per learner?
  • Does it offer a feature rich solution?
  • What is their company’s training like?
  • Can they help you migrate from your existing LMS?

Choose the best LMS provider

After your considerable research, you’ll likely have narrowed down your learning management selection to the final few.

If you’re struggling to select an LMS to commit to, make sure to explore their online reviews and customer testimonials. It’s essential that you partner with an LMS provider you can trust long-term. A good LMS provider is responsive, helpful, and easy to get a hold of.

See if LearnRight is the right fit for you

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How to choose a learning management system for different industries

Choosing an LMS software tailored to the unique needs and challenges of your specific industry is essential. Whether it’s the healthcare sector, manufacturing, finance, or education, each industry possesses its own distinct requirements and compliance standards. Let’s take a look at the most important aspects to consider when selecting an LMS that not only meets sector-specific demands but also maximizes efficiency, engagement, and learning outcomes, ultimately driving growth and success within your chosen industry.

How to choose an LMS for franchisee training

When it comes to franchise businesses, the training of franchisees is a cornerstone of success. It’s the bridge that connects the overarching brand’s identity, standards, and expertise to individual franchise locations. In this context, selecting the right Learning Management System (LMS) for franchisee training becomes a pivotal decision.

The LMS you choose must be easy to use, communicate key information, maintain brand consistency, and ensure compliance with corporate guidelines. Here are the key factors and considerations that should guide the selection of an LMS tailored to the unique needs and challenges of franchisee training, ultimately fostering growth, consistency, and excellence across your franchise network.

When choosing an LMS for franchisee training, consider these other factors:

1
Customizability: Ensure the LMS allows for branding and customization to reflect your franchise’s unique identity and training needs.
2
Ease of Use: Look for an intuitive interface that simplifies navigation, aids the learning process, and minimizes the learning curve for franchisees.
3
Content Management: Assess the system’s ability to manage and update training materials easily, including videos, documents, and interactive modules.
4
Scalability: Confirm that the LMS can accommodate the growth of your franchise network, supporting multiple locations and users.
5
Tracking and Reporting: Check for robust reporting tools to monitor progress, track completion rates, and identify areas that need improvement.
6
Compliance and Certification: Ensure the LMS can manage compliance training and certifications, essential for maintaining brand consistency and meeting industry standards.
7
Mobile Compatibility: Verify that the LMS is accessible on various devices, including smartphones and tablets, to accommodate diverse learning preferences.
8
Support and Training: Evaluate the level of customer support and training resources offered by the LMS provider to assist franchisees effectively.
9
Integration Capabilities: Consider whether the LMS can integrate with other systems, such as HR software or performance management tools, to streamline administrative tasks.
10
Cost and ROI: Calculate the total cost of ownership, including licensing fees and ongoing maintenance, while also assessing the potential return on investment through improved training outcomes and franchisee performance.

Book your franchisee training LMS tour
today with LearnRight

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How to choose an LMS for healthcare companies

Selecting the right LMS software is a mission critical endeavor for healthcare companies, where stringent regulations, ever-evolving medical practices, and the need for ongoing staff training are paramount. In the healthcare industry, the choice of an LMS goes far beyond convenience—it can impact patient care, compliance, and the overall success of the organization.

Let’s delve into the complexities of choosing an LMS tailored specifically to the healthcare sector’s unique demands, focusing on how it can ensure regulatory adherence, enhance staff competencies, and ultimately improve the quality of care provided.

When choosing an LMS for healthcare companies,
consider the following ten main points:

1
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the LMS supports compliance with healthcare industry regulations, such as HIPAA, HITECH, or other local, national, and international standards.
2
Content Relevance: Assess the ability to deliver and manage healthcare-specific training content, including medical procedures, patient privacy, and infection control.
3
Security Measures: Verify robust security features to safeguard sensitive patient data and ensure compliance with data protection laws.
4
User Access Control: Ensure granular user access controls to restrict access to specific training modules and patient information, based on roles and responsibilities.
5
Reporting and Audit Trails: Look for comprehensive reporting and audit trail capabilities to track learner progress and demonstrate compliance during audits.
6
Integration with HR Systems: Evaluate the LMS’s compatibility with HR systems for streamlined onboarding, employee management, and reporting.
7
Mobile Accessibility: Confirm that the LMS is mobile-friendly to accommodate healthcare professionals who may need to access training on-the-go.
8
Continuing Education: Determine if the LMS can manage continuing education requirements and certifications for healthcare professionals and their training goals.
9
Collaborative Features: Consider features that facilitate collaboration and communication among healthcare teams, such as discussion forums or virtual classrooms.
10
Vendor Support and Data Backup: Assess the level of support provided by the LMS vendor, as well as their data backup and disaster recovery capabilities to ensure uninterrupted access to critical training resources.

Book your healthcare LMS tour
today with LearnRight

Make a great first impression on your medical professionals with a seamless online learning and onboarding experience.
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Testimonials

A learning management system that ticks all the boxes

Join LearnRight’s online community of trailblazers to gain access to the most cutting-edge eLearning tools, training resources, and online courses.
“My staff say compliance training is easier and more enjoyable with LearnRight, and I can see that reflected in our completion rates. The staff have loved earning badges when they complete each training level and we have an accurate record of their progress in the system.”
Turlough O'Brien
Turlough O’Brien

Integrations Manager,
Cleaning Contractors
“Our training completion rates are higher than ever, and we can track and report that to stakeholders who want to see results. We can train 1,000s of members at the same time – it’s awesomely scalable.”
Sinead McArdle
Sinead McArdle

Business Development
Manager, ISQua
“We don’t have to worry whether our clients understand how to complete the training – it’s so easy and intuitive to understand. And we get fewer calls for support thanks to our members having an easy-to-use training system on hand whenever they need it.”
Keelan Bourke
Keelan Bourke

Retail Excellence Ireland
Book a demo

How to choose an LMS for nonprofit organizations

Choosing the right LMS is a significant decision for nonprofit organizations dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities. Nonprofits often face unique challenges, including limited budgets and diverse training needs among volunteers and staff.

Let’s explore the essential considerations when selecting an LMS tailored to nonprofit operations, emphasizing how the right choice can maximize learning outcomes, improve organizational efficiency, and ultimately advance their mission-driven goals.

When choosing an LMS for nonprofit organizations,
consider the following ten main points:

1
Affordability: Ensure the LMS aligns with your nonprofit’s budget constraints, taking into account any discounts or special pricing for nonprofit entities.
2
User-Friendly LMS Interface: Opt for an intuitive and user-friendly platform to accommodate volunteers and staff with varying levels of tech proficiency.
3
Content Flexibility: Look for an LMS that can host a wide range of content types, from documents and videos to interactive modules, to support diverse training needs.
4
Scalability: Choose an LMS that can grow with your nonprofit, accommodating an increasing number of learners and expanding training programs.
5
Customization: Ensure the LMS allows for branding and customization to reflect your nonprofit’s mission and values.
6
Engagement Features: Evaluate features such as gamification, quizzes, and discussion forums to enhance learner engagement and participation.
7
Integration Capability: Determine whether the LMS can integrate with other software, such as donor management or CRM systems, to streamline data sharing and reporting.
8
Reporting and Analytics: Seek robust reporting tools to track and analyze learner progress, assess the effectiveness of training programs, and demonstrate impact to stakeholders.
9
Support and Training: Assess the level of customer support, training resources, and documentation provided by the LMS vendor to assist your nonprofit in getting the most out of the platform.
10
Data Security and Privacy: Ensure that the LMS meets data security and privacy standards to protect sensitive donor and volunteer information, aligning with nonprofit ethics and legal obligations.

Book your nonprofit LMS tour
today with LearnRight

Make a great impression on your volunteers, board, and donors with a seamless online learning and onboarding experience.
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How to choose an LMS for training in telecom

Selecting the right Learning Management System (LMS) for training in the telecommunications industry is pivotal in an era where constant innovation and rapid technological advancements are the norm. The telecom sector operates at the forefront of connectivity, demanding a highly skilled workforce to navigate its complexities effectively.

Let’s take a look into the crucial considerations when choosing an LMS tailored to telecom training needs, focusing on how it can empower professionals with the knowledge and skills required to deliver seamless telecommunications services, adapt to evolving technologies, and thrive in a highly competitive market.

When choosing an LMS for training in the telecom industry,
consider the following ten main points:

1
Technical Relevance: Ensure the LMS can support telecom-specific training content, including network technologies, protocols, and equipment.
2
Scalability: Choose an LMS that can handle the growth of your training programs as the telecom industry evolves and expands.
3
Interactive Learning: Look for features that support interactive learning experiences, including simulations, virtual labs, and hands-on exercises.
4
Compliance and Certification: Confirm that the LMS can manage compliance training and certification requirements for telecom professionals, ensuring adherence to industry standards.
5
Mobile Accessibility: Ensure that the LMS is mobile-responsive to accommodate field technicians and remote learners who may need access to training materials on various devices.
6
Collaboration Tools: Consider collaboration features such as discussion forums, chat, and video conferencing to facilitate knowledge sharing among telecom teams.
7
Reporting and Analytics: Seek robust reporting and analytics capabilities to track learner progress, identify areas for improvement, and demonstrate compliance during audits.
8
Integration with Telecom Systems: Determine whether the LMS can integrate with telecom network management systems and tools for a more seamless training experience.
9
Security: Assess the LMS’s security features to protect sensitive telecom data and ensure compliance with data protection regulations.
10
Vendor Support: Evaluate the level of support provided by the LMS vendor, including technical assistance, updates, and ongoing training to meet the specific needs of the telecom industry.

Book your LMS for telecom training
demo with LearnRight

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How to choose an LMS for customer training

Selecting the right LMS for customer training is a strategic move for businesses in an era where exceptional customer service and user experience drive competitive advantage. A well-chosen LMS can empower organizations to efficiently educate their customers, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to make the most of products or services.

Let’s explore the essential considerations when choosing an LMS tailored to customer training needs, emphasizing how it can enhance customer satisfaction, product adoption, and long-term loyalty, ultimately contributing to the success and growth of a business.

When choosing an LMS for customer training,
consider the following ten main points:

1
User-Friendly Interface: Ensure the LMS has an intuitive and user-friendly interface to enhance the customer learning experience.
2
Content Variety: Look for an LMS that supports various content types, such as videos, tutorials, quizzes, and interactive modules, to cater to diverse learning preferences.
3
Branding and Customization: Choose an LMS that allows you to brand the training portal with your company’s logo and colors, creating a consistent brand experience.
4
Scalability: Ensure the LMS can grow with your customer base and training needs, accommodating an increasing number of users and courses.
5
Mobile Compatibility: Confirm that the LMS is mobile-responsive to cater to customers accessing training on different devices.
6
Multi-Language Support: If your customer base is international, opt for an LMS that offers multilingual support to reach a broader audience.
7
Analytics and Reporting: Seek robust analytics and reporting tools to track customer progress, identify areas for improvement, and gain insights into training effectiveness.
8
Integration Capabilities: Determine whether the LMS can integrate with your CRM system, website, or other software to streamline customer data management and training enrollment.
9
Customer Support: Evaluate the level of customer support provided by the LMS vendor, as prompt assistance can be critical in addressing customer inquiries and issues.
10
Data Security: Ensure the LMS complies with data security standards to protect customer information and maintain trust in your training programs.

Book your customer training LMS tour
with LearnRight

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How to choose an LMS for sales training

Selecting the right Learning Management System (LMS) for sales training is a strategic imperative for businesses aiming to equip their sales teams with the knowledge and skills needed to drive revenue and customer satisfaction. In today’s highly competitive marketplace, sales professionals must continuously adapt to changing market dynamics and product offerings.

Let’s look into the essential considerations when choosing an LMS tailored to sales training needs, emphasizing how it can enhance sales performance, improve product knowledge, and contribute to the growth and success of a sales-driven organization.

When choosing an LMS for sales training,
consider the following ten main points:

1
Content Delivery: Ensure the LMS can deliver a variety of content formats, including videos, product demos, interactive modules, and sales playbooks.
2
Customization: Look for an LMS that allows you to tailor training materials to match your products, services, and sales processes.
3
Integration with CRM: Confirm the LMS’s compatibility with your Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to streamline lead and customer data integration.
4
Sales Role-Based Training: Choose an LMS that enables role-based training, catering to the specific needs of sales representatives, managers, and support staff.
5
Gamification: Consider gamification features like leaderboards, badges, and quizzes to boost engagement and motivate sales teams.
6
Assessment and Certification: Seek an LMS with robust assessment tools to evaluate sales knowledge and track certifications for ongoing development.
7
Analytics and Reporting: Ensure the LMS provides comprehensive analytics and reporting to measure the effectiveness of sales training and identify areas for improvement.
8
Mobile Accessibility: Confirm that the LMS is mobile-responsive, allowing sales teams to access training materials on-the-go using smartphones or tablets.
9
Sales Simulations: Look for LMS features that support sales simulations and role-playing exercises to enhance real-world selling skills.
10
User Support: Evaluate the level of user support and training resources offered by the LMS vendor to help sales teams effectively utilize the platform for their professional development.

Book your sales training LMS demo
with LearnRight

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How to choose an LMS for employee onboarding

Selecting the right Learning Management System (LMS) for employee onboarding is a critical decision for organizations aiming to welcome and integrate new hires seamlessly into their workforce. Effective onboarding not only accelerates the path to productivity but also contributes to employee retention and job satisfaction.

Let’s look at the most essential considerations when choosing an LMS tailored to employee onboarding needs, highlighting how it can streamline the orientation process, convey company culture, and set the stage for long-term employee success within the organization.

When choosing an LMS for employee onboarding,
consider the following ten main points:

1
User-Friendly Interface: Ensure the LMS has an intuitive and user-friendly interface to ease the onboarding process for new employees, as well as training employees.
2
Content Delivery: Look for the ability to deliver a variety of content types, such as videos, documents, quizzes, and interactive modules, to engage new hires effectively.
3
Customization: Choose an LMS that allows you to tailor onboarding materials to reflect your company’s culture, values, and specific job roles.
4
Integration with HR Systems: Confirm compatibility with your Human Resources Information System (HRIS) or other HR tools to streamline employee data and onboarding workflows.
5
Compliance and Policy Training: Ensure the LMS can manage compliance training, including legal requirements and company policies, to mitigate risks.
6
Scalability: Choose an LMS that can scale with your organization’s growth, accommodating a growing number of new hires and evolving onboarding needs.
7
Assessment and Feedback: Seek features that support assessments, quizzes, and surveys to gauge new hires’ understanding and collect feedback on the onboarding process.
8
Reporting and Analytics: Look for robust reporting capabilities to track progress, measure completion rates, and identify areas for improvement in the onboarding program.
9
Mobile Accessibility: Confirm that the LMS is accessible on mobile devices, allowing new employees to engage with onboarding materials anytime, anywhere.
10
User Support: Evaluate the level of user support, training resources, and documentation provided by the LMS vendor to assist HR teams and new hires in using the platform effectively.

Book your LMS for employee onboarding
demo with LearnRight

Request a demo

How to choose an LMS for online courses

Selecting the right Learning Management System (LMS) for online courses is a pivotal decision for educators and organizations venturing into the dynamic world of eLearning. With the global demand for online education steadily rising, the choice of LMS can significantly impact the quality and success of online courses.

Let’s delve into the essential considerations when choosing an LMS tailored to online course delivery, emphasizing how it can empower educators, engage learners, and create a conducive digital learning environment that fosters knowledge acquisition and skill development.

When choosing an LMS for online courses,
consider the following ten main points:

1
Content Management: Ensure the LMS allows for easy creation, organization, and management of various types of course content, including videos, documents, quizzes, and interactive materials.
2
Scalability: Choose an LMS that can accommodate the growth of your online course offerings, from a few courses to a large catalog, and support increasing numbers of learners.
3
User-Friendly Interface: Opt for an LMS with an intuitive and user-friendly interface to enhance the learning experience for both instructors and students.
4
Customization: Look for the ability to customize the LMS to match your institution’s branding, including logos, colors, and course layouts.
5
Assessment and Grading: Seek features that support various assessment methods, including quizzes, assignments, and peer reviews, as well as automated grading and feedback mechanisms.
6
Communication Tools: Ensure the LMS provides communication tools such as discussion forums, chat, and email integration to facilitate learner-instructor and learner-learner interactions.
7
Analytics and Reporting: Look for robust analytics and reporting capabilities to track learner progress, assess course effectiveness, and make data-driven improvements.
8
Mobile Compatibility: Confirm that the LMS is responsive and accessible on a variety of devices, including smartphones and tablets, to cater to diverse learner preferences.
9
Integration Capabilities: Determine whether the LMS can integrate with other systems, such as a Student Information System (SIS) or third-party tools for video conferencing and collaboration.
10
Support and Training: Evaluate the level of customer support, training resources, and documentation provided by the LMS vendor to assist instructors and learners effectively navigate the platform and resolve issues.

Book your LMS for online courses demo with LearnRight

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Testimonials

A learning management system that ticks all the boxes

Join LearnRight’s online community of trailblazers to gain access to the most cutting-edge eLearning tools, training resources, and online courses.
“My staff say compliance training is easier and more enjoyable with LearnRight, and I can see that reflected in our completion rates. The staff have loved earning badges when they complete each training level and we have an accurate record of their progress in the system.”
Turlough O'Brien
Turlough O’Brien

Integrations Manager,
Cleaning Contractors
“Our training completion rates are higher than ever, and we can track and report that to stakeholders who want to see results. We can train 1,000s of members at the same time – it’s awesomely scalable.”
Sinead McArdle
Sinead McArdle

Business Development
Manager, ISQua
“We don’t have to worry whether our clients understand how to complete the training – it’s so easy and intuitive to understand. And we get fewer calls for support thanks to our members having an easy-to-use training system on hand whenever they need it.”
Keelan Bourke
Keelan Bourke

Retail Excellence Ireland
Book a demo