What is a Learning Management System (LMS)?

• What is a ‘Learning Management System’?
• How does a Learning Management System work?
• Who uses a Learning Management System?
• Do you need a Learning Management System?

What is an LMS?

A Learning Management System (‘LMS’ for short) is a software application that is used to manage training and learning across a team of people.

Typically that training will include an element of Online Training.

Traditionally Learning Management Systems have been the preserve of large corporates with huge training and IT budgets. But today, with modern web technology and nimble software development companies, Learning Management Systems are available to all.

Who uses a Learning Management System?

Learning Management Systems are used by most large corporations where significant budgets are expended on employee training.

Training needs arise through:-

• legislative requirements – for example Health & Safety training, or Fire Safety training in the UK
• Professional requirements – for example CPD (‘Continuing Professional Development’) training requirements policed by professional organisations such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants.

• Regulatory requirements – such as the those imposed by the Financial Services Authority.

How does a Learning Management System work?

A Learning Management System works by recording the training or learning needs of individuals within a group, and then recording and managing the acquisition of that training.

Initially, a training need is recognised for one or more group members. That training need is matched to provision of a specific learning experience that will fulfil it.

A good Learning Management System will identify the training method (face to face, online or other method) and the due date by which it must be complete.

Do you need a Learning Management System?

If you work with a group of people that:-

• Are subject to formal training requirements imposed on them by a higher authority, or
• Benefit from the application of common standards and working practices that can improve your customer experience and save you money,

Then you should be using a Learning Management System.