What is a Learning Management System?

A learning management system (LMS) delivers and tracks educational and training content. It's used by companies to onboard and train employees and by educational organizations to teach students. E-learning tools include customizable content, mobile lessons and gamification. LMS solutions can improve employee engagement and retention.

The global LMS market is expected to grow to
$22.2 billion by 2023

Source: Marketsandmarkets

68% of workers say training and development is the most important company benefit.

Source: Guthrie Jensen

Companies that offer professional development opportunities have a 38% higher retention rate.

Source: Better Buys

Common LMS Features

Here are several common features found in LMS software:

Learning management

Learning management helps users organize and automate education and training. It includes tools for managing user info, scheduling, alerts, messages and delivering content. Administrators can also set prerequisites for training and allow users to self-enroll into specific courses.

Content library

Many LMS solutions include an out-of-the-box content library with premade learning materials. The library may cover a variety of topics, such as safety regulations, customer service and management techniques.

SCORM compliance

Shareable Content Object Reference Model, or SCORM, is an industry standard that allows learning management systems to incorporate third-party content without any duplication or recoding.

Synchronous learning

Synchronous learning requires students to learn at specific times, either online or in a physical classroom, which can foster collaboration between employees. However, it can be difficult to coordinate and schedule synchronous learning.

Gamification

Also known as game-based learning, gamification provides incentives for students to stay engaged by offering points, badges and other achievements. Students are motivated by competition, entertainment and the casual nature of games.

Certification and compliance management

Some industries or specific jobs require employee certification or compliance training. This feature manages and tracks whether employees have completed all requirements and can generate reports for auditing.

Content development

Organizations can develop personalized course content, either using templates or from scratch. Course authoring tools let administrators design courses with multimedia, such as videos, PDFs, infographics, animations and PowerPoint presentations.

Employee training

Some LMS solutions offer employee training courses. These courses often cover onboarding and job training or offer instruction needed for industry-required certifications.

Asynchronous learning

Asynchronous learning lets students access course materials at different times and locations. The main benefit is that users can learn at their own convenience. Because users aren't bound to a class schedule, organizations often set deadlines to motivate users to complete courses.

Mobile learning

Mobile learning gives students access to LMS materials through a mobile app or web browser. This feature allows remote and asynchronous learners to complete courses on the go.

Testing and assessments

Tests, assessments and quizzes see whether individual students have retained what they learned. They can be given after each lesson or at the end of the course. Analytical tools can identify proficiencies and learning gaps.

Performance tracking

Performance-tracking and reporting functions help determine if the overall learning program is effective. Organizations can analyze how users have performed in their courses and how much time they spend learning.

Top Benefits of LMS Software

Learning management systems have many benefits, including:

Reduced training time and costs

Training employees takes a lot of time, from preparing course materials to assessing performance. Learning management systems automate and streamline the process, which reduces training time.

Employers who don't want to build their own content can also take advantage of the premade course library that comes with many LMS solutions. And asynchronous classes can eliminate the expense of hiring an instructor and renting a physical classroom.

Increased employee engagement and retention

Studies show engaged employees stay with companies longer, and engagement begins with a structured onboarding program.

A learning management system can provide educational materials to help new hires get acclimated to a company's culture and the responsibilities of their role.

It can also improve retention by providing employees with professional development opportunities, including management training or skills to move up higher in the company.

Improved user learning

Most LMS solutions are designed using best teaching practices, including microlearning, multimedia, pre- and post-training assessments, convenient access and individual learning paths.

As part of an employee training program, the software can help users learn efficiently and effectively, compared to lessons prepared by managers with no teaching background.

Ability to track certifications and compliance

Some industries or jobs require certifications or continuing education credits. LMS solutions can help administrators track which employees need additional credits or certification renewals.

Administrators can also generate reports to demonstrate that all employees have completed training needed for regulatory compliance.

Types of LMS Buyers

LMS buyers generally fall into one of the following categories:

large buyers

Large and enterprise-level companies

Large companies have many employees who need onboarding and continuing education. Although these businesses can afford to hold physical classes, they can still benefit from LMS solutions that provide on-demand lessons for busy workers and track course completion for regulatory compliance.

Large companies may also have some learning functionality through their human resource management system (HRMS), but can still decide to purchase a best-of-breed LMS solution for course development or advanced functionality.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs)

SMBs typically don't have the budget or staff to administer proper training, which can require costly and time-consuming tasks like developing course content, hiring instructors and keeping track of compliance training.

These companies may benefit significantly from LMS solutions that come with a premade course library and can organize employee training and certifications. In addition, many LMS vendors offer low-cost options for companies with a few employees or even a free basic version of their software.

small and medium businesses
industry specific

Educational organizations

LMS solutions are popular with educational organizations, such as colleges and universities, because students can access course materials and communicate with the professor and their peers outside of class.

In the last decade, LMS vendors have also started to target elementary and secondary schools. Similar to higher education, K-12 teachers typically use the software to supplement in-class teaching. For example, they can assign courses or quizzes for students to complete at home.

LMS Pricing

LMS solutions often use a software-as-a-service (SaaS) pricing model, which means that businesses pay only for their software usage. Some LMS vendors also have options to purchase a one-time license fee or use a free version of the software.

These are the common LMS pricing options:

Per learner,
per month

The company pays for the solution based on the number of learners actively enrolled in training per month. Fees are generally $5 or less per learner, per month. Note that there may be a set-up or installation fee.

Per learner,
per use

This option allows companies to pay only for the features or modules they really need. Prices are between $1 to $10 per learner, per use.

Per course

This plan is intended for industries with employees who need to renew their certifications or adhere to regulatory compliance. The price is based on the specific certification or continuing education credits needed.

Free

Open-source LMS solutions are usually free and customizable. However, they can be complicated for companies that haven’t used an LMS before, and there’s no support if something goes wrong. Some LMS vendors also offer free basic versions of their software for a limited number of users.

One-time license fee

Companies can purchase a license to install the software on-premise. This option is best for businesses with their own IT staff and data center. License fees generally range from $500 to $20,000, and setup can cost over $25,000.

How to Choose LMS Software

LMS solutions can range in features and pricing, so it's important to take the time to research your options. We recommend the following steps when choosing an LMS solution:

1

Identify your company's needs

The first step in identifying your needs is to get input from potential users. Which workers will receive the most training? Will an LMS solution primarily be used to onboard new hires, train factory workers on safety or provide management classes to employees?

Many LMS solutions also come with course libraries. Check to see if the premade content includes relevant topics to your business. If not, does the software include course development tools? And does your business have the time and energy needed to create custom learning materials? If you need help figuring out the answers to these questions, we've written about how to choose what LMS content your workforce needs.

You should also figure out which key performance indicators (KPIs) will be affected by an LMS solution. Will it increase productivity? Can it reduce training costs? Gathering this info can help you make a business case for investing in an LMS solution and get buy-in from executive management.

2

Creating a shortlist

Research vendors that best fit your needs. In addition to current requirements, consider the implementation process and the scalability of the LMS solution.

The implementation process can vary from solution to solution. You'll want to speak with vendors and request details on timelines and fees. Does the vendor offer training? If so, will it conduct on-site sessions?

Also, check if the LMS solution can integrate with the HR software your company currently uses. If you can pull employee information from an HRMS or use a single sign-on for both platforms, it can save administrators and users a lot of time.

Think about how many workers will need to use the LMS solution now and in the future. If you plan to grow the company, make sure the learning management system is scalable. It should be able to hold a large amount of content that can be edited over time.

Once you've researched these areas, you can put together a shortlist of vendors whose offerings match your needs.

3

Get customer references

Once you've completed a demo of the LMS solution and have a better understanding of price and services, you'll want to get references from a vendor's existing or previous clients.

The vendor will give you the names of clients with positive experiences, but ask for companies that have similar needs to yours (e.g., businesses with under 50 employees or companies that need employee certifications).

When contacting the reference, ask if there have been any issues with the vendor or the solution. Also, if the vendor has been in business for less than five years, it's particularly important to get references.

4

Conduct due diligence

Be sure to compare not only different price quotes, but also deployment options, implementation times and customer support.

Once you've narrowed down the list of vendors, request referrals from customers in your industry or that are a similar size to you. Find out if there are any issues with the vendor or the software.

Challenges of LMS Software

Every software has its pros and cons. Implementing and using an LMS solution has its own challenges, including:

Unclear learning objectives

It can be difficult to define exactly what a business or educational organization wants to get out of an LMS solution. Of course, it should help users learn better, but how do you measure that?

Does your organization want higher test scores or better rates of completion? For companies, is success a safer working environment, more sales or higher employee engagement?

Listing out specific learning objectives is an important part of selecting an LMS solution and understanding how it will be used.

man with checklist and giant pen

Lack of stakeholder buy-in

Top leaders need to be on board with any development program. But they may not see a need for a learning management system unless the business case is presented to them. Companies may need to develop clear KPIs and evaluate the potential return on investment to get executive buy-in.

Also, if training typically falls to HR, they may have concerns about whether they can trust an LMS for compliance. Department managers might worry about using existing content or having to build courses from scratch. And IT will need to support the decision, as they’re responsible for day-to-day maintenance of the software.

It’s key to address these stakeholder concerns during the initial stages of implementation.

man at desk thinking

Issues with implementation

Similar to other software, issues can come up during the implementation process for learning management systems. For example, implementation may take longer than anticipated.

Better Buys has talked with implementation experts who said that communication issues can derail the process. It’s important to maintain an open dialogue between the software vendor and key decision makers and end users throughout all stages.

For more help with the process, check out our guide to LMS implementation.

man with checklist and giant pen

LMS module included with HRMS solution

Some companies might have an HRMS solution with a built-in LMS module with fewer features than a dedicated LMS solution. Deciding between using an LMS module or separate software poses several issues.

How much does a dedicated LMS solution cost, and will the additional benefits outweigh the expense? Can the LMS software be integrated with the company’s current HR software? Will IT find it too difficult to maintain a separate solution?

Answering these questions will be a necessary step before making a final decision.

man with checklist and giant pen
Abara LMS
VENDOR NAME: eNyota Learning
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Targeted training solutions for specific jobs, unlimited content and administrators regardless of price, robust mobile interface.

BAD

Built-in authoring tools are not offered and will need to be purchased separately.

BOTTOM LINE

Mobile-first LMS solution that helps companies successfully train their employees, partners and customers.

READ REVIEW
Academy of Mine
VENDOR NAME: Academy of Mine
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Robust eCommerce functionality, customization to fit an organization's specific needs, 24/7 personalized customer support.

BAD

Email reminders for upcoming webinars isn't currently available but will be offered in a future upgrade.

BOTTOM LINE

A fully custom learning management platform that helps SMBs implement internal/customer/product training, professional development and continuing education programs.

READ REVIEW
Accord LMS
VENDOR NAME: Accord LMS
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Offers both Enterprise and Extended Enterprise functionality for a competitive price.

BAD

The self-hosted (on-premise) option will require organizations to install the DNN Platform.

BOTTOM LINE

A robust LMS solution that's simple to set up and easy to maintain.

READ REVIEW
Arcoro LMS
VENDOR NAME: Arcoro
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Arcoro LMS provides configurable learning plans, the ability to track all certification requirements and easily accessible course content, all in one place.

BAD

Employee portal is limited to English and Spanish.

BOTTOM LINE

Cloud-based LMS module that helps employees in construction and other industries grow their skills and meet certification requirements.

READ REVIEW
Area9 Rhapsode
VENDOR NAME: Area9 Lyceum
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Lessons are personalized and adaptable and can be accessed via mobile devices and tablets.

BAD

The software doesn't have synchronous learning features.

BOTTOM LINE

Area9 Rhapsode is an adaptive learning solution with comprehensive LMS capabilities that helps users create, curate, deliver and measure personalized learning.

READ REVIEW
Auzmor Learn
VENDOR NAME: Auzmor Inc.
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Short learning curve, intuitive course builder, robust off-the-shelf course library.

BAD

Some customers would like additional customization options.

BOTTOM LINE

Intuitive LMS platform that helps managers train their employees more efficiently.

READ REVIEW
BizLibrary
VENDOR NAME: BizLibrary LMS
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Accessible microlearning video content, recommendations engine that suggests relevant topics to learners, social collaboration features.

BAD

Reporting capabilties are not entirely robust, but BizLibrary plans to offer additional features in the future.

BOTTOM LINE

Online learning platform that helps companies provide a successful learning and development strategy to their employees.

READ REVIEW
Blackboard Learn
VENDOR NAME: Anthology Inc.
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Blackboard Assist feature that helps students access their school’s resources, Blackboard App, the ability to measure course or student success.

BAD

Interface looks outdated and isn't always intuitive.

BOTTOM LINE

Long-time LMS solution designed to help students and employees improve their learning experience.

READ REVIEW
BlueVolt
VENDOR NAME: BlueVolt
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Provides incentive for completing courses in the form of gift cards, LMS interface available in over 100 languages, KnowledgeBumps feature that helps learners retain course material.

BAD

Not intended for organizations that rely only on instructor-led training.

BOTTOM LINE

Online LMS that helps channel-driven industries improve business growth and employee productivity.

READ REVIEW
Bridge
VENDOR NAME: Bridge
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Offers scalable tools for all learning tasks, from content creation to progression tracking.

BAD

Gamification features are not offered.

BOTTOM LINE

A dynamic employee development solution with an LMS at the core of its offering focused on corporate training and employee engagement.

READ REVIEW
Brightspace LMS
VENDOR NAME: D2L (Desire2Learn)
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Accessibility features for all learners, Portfolio tool that documents learners' journeys, increased engagement with optional gamification features.

BAD

Learning curve due to robust features, training and documentation resources can be difficult to find.

BOTTOM LINE

Cloud-based LMS that helps organizations provide the best learning experience with robust features, implementation and support.

READ REVIEW
Canvas LMS
VENDOR NAME: Instructure
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Canvas Studio, a new-generation tool that makes educational videos more collaborative.

BAD

No built-in gamification features, but Canvas can integrate with third-party tools that allow gamification.

BOTTOM LINE

An LMS created for educational institutions, Canvas was designed to better engage users in the teaching and learning processes.

READ REVIEW
Coassemble
VENDOR NAME: Coassemble
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Drag-and-drop authoring tool for administrators, mobile-optimized training, straightforward pricing that includes live chat support in all plans.

BAD

Coassemble currently doesn't offer a built-in e-commerce feature or an extensive content library.

BOTTOM LINE

Cloud-based and mobile-optimized learning management system with an intuitive interface that allows companies to efficiently train their employees.

READ REVIEW
Configio
VENDOR NAME: Community Brands
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Doubles as an eCommerce solution for hosting events and registering attendees online.

BAD

Steep learning curve for inexperienced users new to managing a highly configurable enterprise solution.

BOTTOM LINE

A highly customizable LMS that works very well for an array of unique clients.

READ REVIEW
CoreAchieve LMS
VENDOR NAME: CorePartners
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Unlimited course content storage, tracking of both online and offline learning, business intelligence for deeper analysis into learning data.

BAD

Integration to additional web meeting solutions is offered as a service.

BOTTOM LINE

Cloud-based LMS that helps nonprofits, professional associations, government agencies and larger corporations provide customized learning to their employees.

READ REVIEW
Cornerstone LMS
VENDOR NAME: Cornerstone
READ REVIEW

GOOD

AI-powered Learner Home feature that connects learners to new content, automated compliance management workflows, flexibility in both virtual and in-person training.

BAD

Slight learning curve for new users.

BOTTOM LINE

Learning management system that encourages collaboration, and helps improve workforce productivity and engagement.

READ REVIEW
CYPHER Learning
VENDOR NAME: CYPHER Learning
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Increased learning engagement, accessibility from all devices, easy implementation process.

BAD

Not intended for businesses.

BOTTOM LINE

Cloud-based platform for schools with many features designed to help teachers and students maximize learning.

READ REVIEW
TalentLink
VENDOR NAME: DiscoverLink, Inc.
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Automated features so managers can easily administer training programs to employees, employee recognition features, full-service approach to software implementation.

BAD

Self-enrollment in classroom learning is not offered.

BOTTOM LINE

E-learning solution designed to help the hospitality industry overcome the challenges in training their hourly workforce.

READ REVIEW

GOOD

Customizable platform, robust dashboards and reports for measuring learning trends, flexible training delivery.

BAD

Not intended for small businesses.

BOTTOM LINE

Comprehensive learning suite that empowers enterprises to create, deliver and measure the impact of learning programs.

READ REVIEW
Edsby
VENDOR NAME: Edsby
READ REVIEW

GOOD

No manual data entry needed as Edsby integrates with school information system; parents can view student's schedules, grades or assignments online; more efficient course management for teachers.

BAD

Not intended for colleges or corporate offices, on-premise system isn't offered.

BOTTOM LINE

Learning management system specifically for the K-12 sector that helps foster learning and collaboration between students, teachers, parents and administrators.

READ REVIEW
EdTek LMS
VENDOR NAME: EdTek Services Inc.
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Offers LMS variety, affordable all-in-one pricing and an unlimited free trial with support; provides a course designer, course developer and client service consultant.

BAD

Cloud-based, so internet glitches could affect operation.

BOTTOM LINE

EdTek Services knows itsLearning and Topyx LMS, despite being a consultancy and not an LMS developer.

READ REVIEW
Edvance360 LMS
VENDOR NAME: Edvance360
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Strong focus on social learning that includes wikis, social networks and other tools, ED360 Live! video/audio conferencing module, robust reporting tools.

BAD

As Edvance360 is robust, it may be a bit of a learning curve for users, but training guides are available.

BOTTOM LINE

Robust learning management system designed to help schools and companies provide an interactive and fun learning experience for students and employees.

READ REVIEW
eFront
VENDOR NAME: Epignosis LLC
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Highly customizable, offers flexible deployment options, supports a wide variety of content formats.

BAD

Not intended for small businesses, open source version is no longer supported.

BOTTOM LINE

A highly versatile enterprise LMS that offers unrivaled ease and flexibility to fit all brand specifications and train large bodies of employees, partners and customers.

READ REVIEW
eloomi
VENDOR NAME: eloomi A/S
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Flexible content bundles, employees can easily stay on top of compliance training, microlearning courses.

BAD

Some users report occasional glitches, while others find reporting features somewhat limited.

BOTTOM LINE

LMS platform that helps global companies improve employee engagement in learning and development.

READ REVIEW
eTrainCenter
VENDOR NAME: Creative Logic Solutions
READ REVIEW

GOOD

eTrainCenter has a user-friendly interface that allows organizations to create and distribute courses quickly and efficiently.

BAD

The solution doesn't support the Tin Can standard.

BOTTOM LINE

eTrainCenter is a suite of integrated elearning systems that allow businesses to manage, organize and deliver online training to both employees and clients.

READ REVIEW

GOOD

Robust content management features, supports both classroom and online training, reporting tools that measure employee knowledge and course effectiveness.

BAD

ExxTend Learning doesn't have gamification features.

BOTTOM LINE

Cloud-based LMS that helps industries stay on top of rapidly changing safety and security protocols.

READ REVIEW
Google Classroom
VENDOR NAME: Google
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Strong collaborative focus, easy to set up classes and assignments, virtual classes with Google Meet.

BAD

Accounts for parents aren't offered.

BOTTOM LINE

Learning management solution intended for schools in virtual or hybrid environments.

READ REVIEW

GOOD

Easy-to-use interface and tools that can be tailored to meet a company's needs.

BAD

Complex process to add new features to a solution package.

BOTTOM LINE

LMS with Web integration and mobile capabilities to allow enterprisewide learning, anywhere, anytime.

READ REVIEW
Intertek Alchemy
VENDOR NAME: Intertek Alchemy
READ REVIEW

GOOD

The software automatically tracks and records training completion for easy auditing and compliance reporting.

BAD

Creating courses may be difficult for novices and require additional training.

BOTTOM LINE

Intertek Alchemy is a comprehensive LMS solution targeting frontline workers. It has an extensive course library, content creation tools and an integrated coaching app.

READ REVIEW
iSpring Learn LMS
VENDOR NAME: iSpring Solutions Inc.
READ REVIEW

GOOD

A robust course authoring tool (iSpring Suite), easy-to-use interface with no learning curve, simple and effective user management.

BAD

Advanced social learning features are not offered.

BOTTOM LINE

An intuitive and comprehensive LMS that helps companies automate their employee training and professional development.

READ REVIEW
KMI LMS
VENDOR NAME: KMI Learning
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Virtual classrooms via Zoom or Google Meet, the ability to create content within Google Drive, white label branding feature.

BAD

May be too robust for small businesses.

BOTTOM LINE

Custom LMS software that can be tailored to fit an organization's exact needs.

READ REVIEW
Lanteria LMS
VENDOR NAME: Lanteria
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Searchable learning catalogs, advanced analytics and reporting functionality, built-in quiz maker.

BAD

Not intended for small businesses.

BOTTOM LINE

This LMS module is designed to help companies plan lessons and track learning performance for employees.

READ REVIEW
Lessonly
VENDOR NAME: Seismic
READ REVIEW

GOOD

An intuitive and flexible interface with drag and drop capabilities, making course and report creation simple for any user.

BAD

Limited reporting functionality, not intended for teams with less than 25 users.

BOTTOM LINE

Lessonly is a Web-based, single-platform LMS with simple course creation, sharing and tracking tools that allows white labeling for company branding in learning material.

READ REVIEW
Microsoft Teams
VENDOR NAME: Microsoft
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Remote access to coursework for students, ability for teachers to create and grade assignments, variety of collaboration features included.

BAD

Not intended for corporate training.

BOTTOM LINE

Collaboration tool that helps teachers deliver virtual learning to their students.

READ REVIEW
Moodle
VENDOR NAME: Moodle
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Flexible deployment options, the ability for teachers to choose their own content and activities, dedicated Moodle mobile app.

BAD

MoodleCloud plans only accommodate up to 1,000 users, and some users say the interface isn’t always intuitive.

BOTTOM LINE

Open-source platform with a modular design for teachers to build their own curriculum.

READ REVIEW
MotiveLMS
VENDOR NAME: Motive Learning
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Features to track certification requirements, built-in course authoring tool, custom functionality.

BAD

Notifications currently cannot be paused or ignored.

BOTTOM LINE

Robust LMS to help specialized or highly regulated industries successfully train and certify employees.

READ REVIEW
myQuest
VENDOR NAME: myQuest
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Intuitive lesson design, effective user engagement (AFT method), avid customer support.

BAD

Inability to divide a course into separate groups of participants.

BOTTOM LINE

With custom design, intuitive setup, quick deployment and dedicated support, myQuest offers comprehensive functionality for online instruction.

READ REVIEW
Oracle Learning
VENDOR NAME: Oracle Corp.
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Social learning that allows employees to share knowledge with their co-workers, learning engine embedded within other modules, accessible online and offline learning.

BAD

Gamification feature is not included.

BOTTOM LINE

Oracle Learning helps companies provide a successful growth and learning strategy to their employees in order to thrive in a changing business climate.

READ REVIEW
OttoLearn
VENDOR NAME: Neovation
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Adaptive training aimed at individual learners, quick content creation, multilingual support.

BAD

Training via SMS and two-factor authentication are not currently offered.

BOTTOM LINE

Agile microlearning solution that increases learner training retention with two-minute Mastery Moment activities.

READ REVIEW
Paradiso LMS
VENDOR NAME: Paradiso Solutions
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Social learning and gamification features to increase engagement, a wide range of use cases supported, blended learning.

BAD

Software is not always user friendly.

BOTTOM LINE

LMS with robust features to help organizations provide and track training programs.

READ REVIEW
Learning Mgt. Sol.
VENDOR NAME: SAP SuccessFactors
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Personalized training for improving learner engagement, flexible content options, eCommerce functionality.

BAD

Some extended administration and maintenance capabilities are not easy to administer.

BOTTOM LINE

Strong learning management system that empowers companies to improve their learning and development efforts.

READ REVIEW
Schoology
VENDOR NAME: PowerSchool
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Strong collaboration features throughout the solution.

BAD

Dated interface, learning curve due to robust features.

BOTTOM LINE

Schoology allows instructors and learners to communicate easily, and it has built-in grading and assessment tools.

READ REVIEW
Percipio
VENDOR NAME: Skillsoft
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Curated Aspire Journeys paths based on roles or skills, AI algorithms that provide personalized course recommendations, blended learning support.

BAD

Customers have mentioned the interface is outdated and can be hard to navigate at times.

BOTTOM LINE

Cloud-based LMS software that empowers employees to boost their skills or career development.

READ REVIEW
SkyPrep LMS
VENDOR NAME: SkyPrep Inc.
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Unlimited content, courses and assessments regardless of plan selected, streamlined course management process, content creation tools that accommodate a variety of files.

BAD

Not intended for small offices or schools.

BOTTOM LINE

Cloud-based LMS solution that includes an intuitive and easy-to-use interface and provides straightforward pricing plans.

READ REVIEW
SmarterU
VENDOR NAME: Neovation
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Ability to create courses using multimedia content, gamification feature to increase learner engagement, customizable to an organization's requirements.

BAD

Public roadmap is not currently offered, not targeted to small businesses.

BOTTOM LINE

Scalable LMS platform with robust features that help companies deliver engaging learning content to their employees.

READ REVIEW
Spoke
VENDOR NAME: Unboxed
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Collaboration tools with advanced search features make continued discussions and social learning simple.

BAD

Platform may be too robust for a small business.

BOTTOM LINE

Learning management system with user-friendly tools to create engaging company training courses.

READ REVIEW
TalentLMS
VENDOR NAME: Epignosis LLC
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Blended learning functionality with automated notification system, ability to track course metrics via infographic, instructors can easily create and deliver learning content.

BAD

Live chat support only available in the Premium tier.

BOTTOM LINE

Robust LMS that helps small and midsize businesses provide training to their employees, customers and partners.

READ REVIEW
Thinking Cap LMS
VENDOR NAME: Thinking Cap
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Flexible configurations for administrators, support for both offline and online learning programs, collaboration features for learners.

BAD

Although Thinking Cap offers standard licenses for companies with at least 10 users, it’s mainly focused on enterprise customers with a minimum of 500 active learners.

BOTTOM LINE

Scalable learning management platform that helps all companies provide training to their learners, especially organizations with complex requirements.

READ REVIEW
Thought Industries
VENDOR NAME: Thought Industries
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Ability to quickly build custom microsites and interactive learning courses all from within one cloud-based platform, integrates with third-party business systems, provides eCommerce functionality out of the box.

BAD

Not geared for companies needing internal corporate training.

BOTTOM LINE

Consolidated platform of easy-to-use tools for companies looking to deliver or sell online learning to consumers, professionals and the extended enterprise.

READ REVIEW
Totara Learn
VENDOR NAME: Totara
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Built-in performance management features, Totara Cloud solution for SMBs, extensive partner network for implementation, support and other services.

BAD

The software can be challenging for companies that haven't implemented an LMS before.

BOTTOM LINE

Fully customizable open source solution that empowers organizations to deliver training to their employees.

READ REVIEW
Tovuti LMS
VENDOR NAME: Tovuti LMS
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Content authoring tool with up to 44 interactive content modules, social collaboration for learners, the ability to sell training programs to external learners.

BAD

While Tovuti LMS is mobile responsive, a mobile app is not currently available.

BOTTOM LINE

Comprehensive, interactive and flexible LMS that helps organizations provide an engaging training program to their employees.

READ REVIEW
Unlock:Learn
VENDOR NAME: InfoPro Learning
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Free support included with subscription, unlimited content uploads and storage, reports for tracking learner progress.

BAD

Content authoring tools aren't available.

BOTTOM LINE

Affordable and scalable LMS that helps organizations with their talent management objectives.

READ REVIEW
Wisetail LMS
VENDOR NAME: Wisetail
READ REVIEW

GOOD

Advanced intuitive UI and a department dedicated to customer experience.

BAD

Not intended for companies with less than 200 users.

BOTTOM LINE

Social, communication & community features within a robust LMS platform designed to drive engagement.

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WizIQ
VENDOR NAME: WizIQ
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GOOD

WizIQ works with a variety of media files, and it easily allows users to import and embed files into courses.

BAD

Customer service representatives are difficult to reach after setup; solution is poorly developed, according to clients.

BOTTOM LINE

WizIQ is a cloud-based learning management system that streamlines all the tasks involved in content creation and delivery.

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World Manager
VENDOR NAME: FranConnect
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GOOD

Custom-branded mobile app and ACTIV authoring tools for an interactive training presentation, no additional fees other than subscription price, easy to create and track training.

BAD

Specifically designed for retail, service-based and multi-site industries; may not be best solution for large-scale single-location applications.

BOTTOM LINE

Customizable, engaging and mobile-friendly training platform with easy-to-use, interactive features.

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YesLMS
VENDOR NAME: YesLMS
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GOOD

Accessibility features (e.g., adjustable fonts, image descriptions, keyboard navigation), customizable to fit an organization's needs, quick implementation.

BAD

Noncompliant gamification features are not offered.

BOTTOM LINE

Cloud-based LMS platform that's designed to make learning accessible to everyone.

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