An LMS is a large repository where users store and track information in one place. Any user with a login and password can access the system and its online learning resources. If the system is self-hosted, the user must either install the software on their computer or access it through their company’s server.
Some common LMS features include the following capabilities and technologies:
- Responsive design. Users access the LMS from any type of device, whether it’s a desktop, laptop, tablet or smartphone. The system automatically displays the version best suited for each user’s chosen device and lets users download content for offline work.
- User-friendly interface. The UI lets learners navigate the LMS platform and is aligned with the abilities and goals of the user and the organization. An unintuitive UI risks confusing or distracting users, making the LMS less effective.
- Reports and analytics. E-learning assessment tools and dashboards show instructors and administrators how effective online training initiatives are. Both groups of learners and individuals can be analyzed with these tools and metrics.
- Catalog and course management. Admins and instructors manage the catalog of course content in the LMS to create more targeted learning experiences.
- Content interoperability and integration. Content created and stored in an LMS must be packaged in accordance with interoperable standards, including SCORM and experience application programming interface or xAPI.
- Support services. Different LMS vendors offer varying levels of support. Many provide online discussion boards where users connect and help each other. Additional support services, such as a dedicated, toll-free phone number, might be available for an extra cost.
- Certification and compliance support. This feature is essential to systems used for online compliance training and certifications. It enables instructors and admins to assess an individual’s skill set and identify any gaps in their performance. This feature also makes it possible to use LMS records during an audit.
- Social learning capabilities. Many LMSes include social media tools in their learning platforms to let users interact with their peers, collaborate and share learning experiences.
- Gamification. Some LMSes include game mechanics or built-in gamification features that add extra motivation and engagement to courses. This gives students an additional incentive to complete courses, in the form of leaderboards, points and badges.
- Automation. Learning management systems automate and streamline repetitive and tedious tasks, such as grouping, adding and deactivating users, and handling group enrollments.
- Localization. LMSes often include multilingual support, removing language barriers from learning and training content. Some LMSes integrate geolocation features that automatically present the appropriate version of the course when a user accesses it.
- Artificial intelligence. LMSes use AI to create personalized learning experiences for users with course formats suited to their needs. AI also helps suggest topics a user might find interesting based on courses they’ve already completed.
