Examples of LMS
Learning Management Systems (LMS) have come a long way since the invention of the first teaching machine by Sydney Pressey.
An LMS is no longer a one-size-fits-all prospect. Modern learners now have many options to choose from depending on their needs.
Examples of Learning Management systems in the market today include.
- Open-Source
- SaaS Cloud
- Proprietary
You’ve probably used one of these types of LMSs without even realizing it. If you’re still unsure what an LMS is, here’s a definition from TechTarget:
Wherever there is a need for online training, you’re likely to find high usage of an LMS.
Colleges and universities have long relied on online systems to store their learner data and keep track of essay submissions, learning outside of traditional lectures and seminars, and administration. They can be used to connect learners with their tutors in a convenient way for both. One of the major benefits for educational establishments is that LMSs can store learning resources that can be accessed at any time by students enrolled on the appropriate course.
Businesses are increasingly turning to eLearning, with more making the switch every year. They’re finding it’s often more cost-effective to handle topics such as Compliance and Health and Safety this way, where learners can cover the material at their own pace and return to it afterwards when they need a refresher.
Some continue with some aspects of the traditional classroom-based training alongside their eLearning courses – this approach is called ‘blended learning’ and offers the best of both worlds.
he biggest difference in LMS solutions is between the webbased LMS software and the installed LMS software. You had to install early LMS vendor created software on your own server. It had to be maintained by your own IT. It came with big setup fees and maintenance agreements. Which cost you a lot of money. Modern LMS vendors develop webbased online Learning Mangement Systems. Pricing for webbased software is a fraction of the big clunky installed software. On top of that, the LMS vendors maintain the software and keep developing and improving their online LMS software. No big setup fees are needed and the monthly costs are much lower than installed software.
Saas / Cloud LMS vs Hosted LMS
In the webbased software you have two different views. You can choose for a saas LMS or you can host the software yourself. If you’re going to host the software yourself, you’re in full control of the server specs. But you’re also responsible for the uptime and security of your server. You have to upgrade any updates that come available. If you choose an online saas LMS all those responsibilities are for the LMS vendor. You can concentrate on creating online courses.
Free vs Commercial
If you have technical talent in your team and you are on a tight budget, have a look at the free learning management systems which are available. There are some solutions which you can install and maintain yourself. If you don’t want to install and setup software yourself, you have to choose a commercial LMS.
Open Source vs Closed Source
In both webbased and installed software you have closed source and open source learning management systems. Online Saas / Cloud LMS software is never open source. If you are a big fan of open source projects you don’t have to look in to those. Open source gives you freedom, but also responsibilities. If you’re a more hassle free girl or guy just go with an online saas LMS.