Key Features of Your Ideal LMS
One of the most important decisions you will make about your learning and development (L&D) strategy is choosing one of the many Learning Management Systems (LMSs) for your company. Navigating the market’s maze-like selection of LMS options, however, can be challenging. The task can seem overwhelming because there are so many providers and factors to consider. Don’t worry; We’ve put together the most comprehensive LMS requirements checklist to help you choose the platform that best suits your business needs.
16 LMS Requirements Checklist
It can be intimidating to learn to use all the different features of an LMS. Having a reference to keep track of everything is helpful, which is why this checklist template was created. Use it to quickly assess how different LMSs meet key needs. You don’t have to limit yourself to the items on this checklist. You are welcome to add more and change sections to suit your needs.
LMS Performance Requirements
Start by evaluating the key features a learning platform offers when searching for the perfect LMS to support your eLearning project or training courses. You can design an effective and engaging learning experience for students with the help of these functional requirements.
- Aspects of social learning
Encourage collaboration, knowledge sharing, and engagement among professionals in your organization. - Mobile learning (mLearning)
Ensure mobile LMS accessibility by allowing learners to access training courses anytime and anywhere using their mobile devices. - Integrated learning
Combine Traditional Instructor-Led Training with online learning content to improve flexibility and engagement. - eLearning content
Determine if the LMS has a built-in content marketplace to assist with content development and acquisition. - Gamification
Improve student engagement with video game-inspired features like leaderboards and achievements. - SCORM, AICC, and xAPI
Compliance with eLearning standards is necessary for seamless content integration and tracking. - Writing tools
Evaluate the availability of authoring tools for developing eLearning content within the LMS or through integration. - Usability
Prioritize user-friendly links and easy navigation for both administrators and students.
LMS technical requirements
Consider the technical features of the LMS, including available deployment options, strong security measures to protect your data, and seamless integration with other software solutions to improve performance and efficiency.
- SaaS LMS solution
Consider whether the LMS is cloud-based and available as a subscription service to maximize cost savings and ease of maintenance. - Security
Maintain data security standards to protect sensitive learning materials and student information. - Integration
Test API interoperability with other systems such as CRM integration, AMS integration, and other third-party applications and applications to ensure seamless workflow integration.
Other Important Requirements
Beyond functionality and technology, consider features such as customizable reports, mobile access, gamification, and multilingual support, as well as strong customer service, to meet the unique needs of your organization.
- eCommerce
If applicable, prioritize eCommerce features for buying and selling training content. - Customer support
Look for reliable customer service options to address technical issues and concerns. - Accessibility
Ensure inclusiveness by choosing an LMS with comprehensive accessibility features for all learners. - Certificates
Improving the tracking and management of certification and compliance training within the LMS. - Data migration
Choose an LMS with data migration capabilities to import and export content to ensure a seamless transition.
Before Choosing an LMS
Take the time to evaluate the training programs your company currently offers, identify any pain points, decide on a budget, and understand the needs of learners before delving into LMS comparisons and implementations. Look for an LMS that meets all your needs and aligns with your company’s goals and objectives. Never forget that the right learning platform can completely transform your learning program, increasing its impact, efficiency, and engagement level. Choosing the best LMS can be difficult, but now that you have an LMS checklist at your disposal, you can make an informed choice.
Editor’s Note: Explore our directory to find, select, and compare the top LMS Software for the eLearning Industry.