Learning Platforms & Features

Understanding the different online learning systems

There can be a lot of overlap between the different training platform types, as platform providers build new features to appease customers and prospects. It’s important to distinguish the differences. Explore articles that cover each learning system in detail so you’ll have the knowledge you need when selecting your next learning system.

1. 01What is a learning management system?We answer "what is an LMS?" but also go in-depth with why and who should use a learning management system and the top use cases for LMS-based training.Susan Hurrell · 18 min read
2. 02When to consider using an LXP as the learning platform of choice for your companyLXP or LMS? We take you through LXP features, use cases, and the advantages of each option to help you choose the best learning system for your business.Cydnie Smith · 9 min read
3. 03What is microlearning? Plus tipsWhen you want an answer, you don't sign up for an hour-long seminar, you do a quick search on your phone. And whether you realize it or not, that's microlearning.Pamela S. Hogle · 2 min read
4. 04What is employee experience?Attract top talent in a tight labor market by improving the employee experience with learning and development that boosts performance, productivity, and profits.Pamela S. Hogle · 2 min read
5. 05How an adaptive learning platform can help your organizationDiscover how an adaptive learning platform can help your business offer better training as we dive into use cases, features, benefits, costs, and pitfalls to avoid.Cydnie Smith · 18 min read
6. 06What is a learning record store?What is a learning record store? If you have an LMS or LXP as part of your training ecosystem, you might be wondering if you need an LRS and where it fits?Pamela S. Hogle · 2 min read
7. 07What does mobile-first mean and why isn't mobile-friendly enough?Responsive design may allow content to adapt to different screen sizes, but it's when content is designed with short, micro moments in mind that your training becomes "mobile-first."Pamela S. Hogle · 2 min read
8. 08Your LMS is more than just an eLearning content libraryAs your corporate learning hub, a good LMS combines many features, an eLearning library or database for courses, ways to track learning paths, and more.Pamela S. Hogle · 2 min read

How to find, purchase, and implement your online learning system

It’s time to go shopping! Depending on how you feel about this activity, it can become a point of contention or bring you excitement for “what’s next.”

Covering each step (from finding learning system vendors, attending your first sales calls, evaluating your training platform demos, and implementing your selected learning system), we lay out the steps so you can make a sound decision.

1. 01Your guide to finding an LMS that meets your training needsWith hundreds of LMS options, how will you find an LMS to meet your needs? Look for the right LMS for you based on criteria unique to you, not the best LMS.Susan Hurrell · 11 min read
2. 02How to prepare yourself before your first call with an LMS sales repHave you ever talked with an LMS sales rep? Explore how you can prepare for your first call with an LMS sales rep, including questions to ask during the call.Susan Hurrell · 10 min read
3. 03How do I prepare for an LMS demo?We examine how you can prepare for an LMS demo, including key questions to ask during your LMS demo and how to evaluate LMS platforms before you buy.Susan Hurrell · 12 min read
4. 04How you can prevent your LMS purchase from stallingBeing proactive is key to a smooth LMS purchase. We uncover roadblocks and pitfalls to avoid, so you can reach the finish line of your LMS acquisition journey.Susan Hurrell · 21 min read
5. 05Matching LMS features to your specific training needsWe examine the most important LMS features you should consider and compare them to training requirements to help find the right LMS for your organization.Susan Hurrell · 7 min read
6. 06Follow an LMS implementation plan to give your training a strong startDiscover what makes a successful LMS implementation, the reasons to consider one, and why a vendor-driven LMS implementation is a worthwhile investment.Susan Hurrell · 16 min read

Building your eLearning ecosystem

Like the delicate balance in many of nature’s ecosystems, your eLearning ecosystem is no different. Understanding the nuances of each component and how they work together will help your organization deliver a holistic approach to any online training endeavor.

1. 01What is an eLearning ecosystem? What are its key components?Explore going beyond a SCORM-based LMS with a tailored eLearning ecosystem that helps foster growth and improves training performance at your company.Pamela S. Hogle · 5 min read
2. 025 essential stages of online training maturityOur five-stage approach helps organizations achieve online training maturity, resulting in a robust eLearning ecosystem, no matter where you are in the journey.Pamela S. Hogle · 7 min read

Understanding your learners

Truly understanding your learners needs and goals (including what they aren’t looking for from your training) is a key to improving learner engagement and training outcomes. Explore how your learners may interact with various features or forms of learning to help them get the most from the training you provide.

1. 01What is peer learning and what are its strengths?Peer learning is a valuable way to encourage employee collaboration, build team connections, and develop deep institutional knowledge of training materials.Pamela S. Hogle · 2 min read
2. 02What is social learning and how to leverage itProviding opportunity for social learning is important, but it's also important to understand you can't force it, and when it's time to leave your learners to their own devices.Pamela S. Hogle · 2 min read
3. 03What is learner experience?The learner experience (LX) encompasses content as well as other elements of the training journey. Learn why a great LX matters for your eLearning results!Pamela S. Hogle · 3 min read