According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the learning management system (LMS) software market is expected to be worth $15.72 billion by 2021. This growth is being driven by the need for organizations to provide employee training and development and the rise in online and distance learning.
Knowing which one is right for your organization can be challenging with so many LMS software options on the market. To help you make an ideal decision here is a compiled list of the seven must-have features to look for.
History:
LMS software first emerged in the late 1990s to provide online training and development for employees. Since then, the market has grown exponentially, with new features and capabilities being added to meet the needs of organizations and learners. It is now one of the most popular software categories, with millions of users worldwide.
An LMS can provide a cost-effective way for organizations to deliver training and development content. It can provide access to learning resources and materials from any location for learners.
What to Look for in an LMS:
Below are some key features to look for:
- Ease of use:
Did you know that the average LMS has a learning curve of 28 minutes? That means it can take up to 28 minutes to feel comfortable using the software. You want a system that is easy to use and navigate so that employees can start using it right away without feeling frustrated.
For example, it should have a user-friendly interface that is easy to understand. It should also be compatible with different devices so that employees can access it from their computers, tablet, or smartphone.
- Scalability:
Ease of use is essential, but you also want an LMS that can grow with your organization. As your company expands, you’ll need a system that can accommodate more users, more content, and more features. Make sure to choose a plan with the scalability to meet your future needs.
- E-Commerce Capabilities:
Today’s LMSs go beyond just delivering content. Many of them also have e-commerce capabilities that allow you to sell courses and other learning materials. If you plan to sell courses or other learning products, select a system with e-commerce capabilities.
- Reporting and Analytics:
A learning management tool is only as good as the data it produces. You want a system that provides detailed reporting and analytics so you can track employee progress and identify areas of improvement. You should also be able to generate reports on specific courses, groups of users, or other criteria.
- LMS Integration:
It should be able to integrate with other software systems, such as your HRIS or CRM. This will allow you to manage all of your employee data in one place and avoid duplicate data entry. When picking up a system, check that it can integrate with the other software systems you use.
- Mobile Learning:
With more and more employees using smartphones and other mobile devices, choosing an LMS that supports mobile learning is essential. It allows employees to access learning content from their mobile devices, making it more convenient and flexible.
- Customer Support:
When you’re investing in a new LMS, you want to ensure that you have access to customer support when you need it. Look for a vendor that provides you with 24/7 customer support so you can get help when you need it.
Conclusion:
Learning Management System (LMS) is a powerful tool for delivering training and development content. However, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your organization. Hence, keep these features in mind to make a profitable decision.
