6 features your LMS must have (and why!) in summary:
- Implementing a Learning Management System (LMS) in your business is an incredibly effective way to nurture a culture of learning.
- If you’re looking to invest in an LMS, the core features it should have include a user-friendly interface, fast and automated onboarding and a comprehensive content library.
- In addition, look for an LMS that also supports various types of content, assessment and progress tracking, and includes robust reporting and analytics.
We hate to break this to you, but if you don’t have a robust learning and development programme in place at your organisation, you’re missing out.
“But why?” you’re probably thinking… Well, in short, learning and development are integral to the modern employee experience – especially for younger employees. For example, a 2022 survey from LinkedIn found that, globally, 75% of Gen Zs (who by 2025 will account for over 27% of the global workforce) would consider changing roles because of the relevance and quality of their workplace’s learning and development programme.
Closer to home here in the UK, learning and development is also seen as an integral part of positive workplace experiences and cultures. This was backed up by our own research into the modern employee experience, which found senior leaders who support career growth opportunities for employees are vital to building satisfying (and successful) work environments.
It’s official, then: learning and devlepment are something businesses can no longer afford to ignore. So, what can you do if learning and development have fallen off the radar in your organisation?
Taking a step in the right direction with an LMS (Learning Management System)
Implementing an LMS (Learning Management System) can be a foundational step in creating a culture of learning within a business. This is because:
- An LMS provides the vital infrastructure needed for delivering and managing learning content within an organisation.
- It can also act as a central hub for learning and development materials – making access easy for employees across different locations and departments.
- An LMS can support a learning culture of continuous development by allowing employees to pursue learning at their own pace and according to their individual development goals.
- A great LMS can offer robust tracking and reporting capabilities, allowing organisations to monitor learners’ progress and assess the effectiveness of training programs.
- That tracking and reporting can then aid businesses in making data-driven decisions to enhance learning initiatives, identify knowledge gaps, and measure learning outcomes.
- An effective LMS can integrate with an organisation’s performance management processes, talent development strategies, and overall business objectives. This alignment reinforces the importance of learning within the organisation’s culture.
- And lastly, an LMS is fantastic for facilitating formal training programmes, a learning culture extends to informal learning opportunities, knowledge sharing, and peer collaboration.
All sounds great, right? However, before you chose an LMS for your own business, what are the key features you should look out for that’ll enable you to do all that?
Here are the top 6 features every LMS should have and – most importantly – why!
1. A user-friendly interface
Why? Having a user-friendly interface is vitally important for both learners and instructors. It should be intuitive and easy to use, with a design that’s visually appealing and well-organised for both habitual learners and novices alike. Plus, it needs to work smoothly on all sorts of devices – including traditional desktops, tablets and smartphones.
And besides, a clean interface not only looks nice; it also makes it easier for everyone to get the hang of using the system quickly – encouraging regular and sustained use.
2. Fast and automated user onboarding
Why? Fast and automated user onboarding is crucial for an LMS because it streamlines the process of getting learners and instructors up and running quickly.
By automating tasks like account creation, enrolment and communication tasks, you eliminate delays and reduce administrative burden. This ensures a smooth start for your users, fostering better engagement and maximising the benefits of the learning platform from day one.
3. A comprehensive content library
Why? If you’re creating a new learning and development programme from scratch at your business, then an LMS with a ready-made library of content is incredibly useful. For example, Cezanne’s LMS includes a vast ready-to-use library – meaning you can provide high quality learning to your employees at a moment’s notice.
If you need to create learning materials that are specific to your business or industry, then that’s not a problem either! That’s because it includes a built-in Content Author tool, allowing users to create their own bespoke learning materials from scratch. Speaking of which…
4. Support for various types of content
Why? Different people learn in different ways. So, offering a mix of learning materials – like videos, readings, interactive activities, and in-person discussions – ensures that everyone can engage with the content in a way that suits them best. Plus, it prevents boredom setting in, and keeps learners motivated throughout your programmes.
By choosing an LMS that supports diverse learning styles and preferences, you’ll be able to create a richer learning experience that’s more effective (and enjoyable) for everyone involved.
5. Assessment and progress tracking
Why? Effective assessment tools are vital for evaluating learners’ understanding and progress. After all, you want to be sure your learning programmes are succeeding in their objectives, right?
Your choice in LMS should offer various assessment types (quizzes, assignments, polls) and customisable marking options. Also, the system should generate detailed reports on learners’ performance to help your instructors identify areas for improvement. Which leads nicely onto…
6. Robust reporting and analytics
Why? Yup, reporting is an essential part of any good LMS. So, last on our list of features your LMS must have are robust reporting and analytics features. They’ll help you assess the effectiveness of your content and activities, and make informed data-driven decisions for course improvements.
With the data at your fingertips, you can create learning programmes that truly engage and inspire your employees!
Paul Bauer
Paul Bauer is the Head of Content at Cezanne HR. Based in the Utopia of Milton Keynes (his words, not ours!) he’s worked within the employee benefits, engagement and HR sectors for over four years. He’s also earned multiple industry awards for his work – including a coveted Roses Creative Award.
