Learning Management Systems (LMS) are software applications that help manage the delivery and tracking of e-learning. LMS systems allow organizations to automate the administration of online training programs, from user registration and course enrollment to tracking completion and reporting results. LMS platforms provide a central place for students to access assigned courses, view completed trainings, and check test scores. They also reduce administrative workload by automating tasks like administering tests, checking prerequisites, and booking travel. While LMS systems streamline online training programs, implementing one requires a large investment and should only be undertaken after thorough research and consultation with an LMS expert.

1. Learning Management Systems Could Your Company Benefit?

2. What is this about? This short lesson is designed to give you a quick idea of what an LMS is. In addition it will also include some facts that may help you determine whether an LMS system is a good idea for you, or your company. L earning L M S M anagement S ystem

3. What is a Learning Management System? Learning Management Systems (LMS) provide a means to manage the delivery of e-learning courses. LMS’ are learner and organizational focused. They are concerned with handling the logistics of learners that are in a training system.

4. How LMS’ Manage Curriculums LMS’ manage the learning activities, their sequence, and the competency mapping of courses. This allows a student to be routed to specific courses as determined by the training outfit. Psych101 Psych201 Psych301 Psych401 Wrong Sequence

5. What Kind of Courses? Courses managed by an LMS may be: Online Courses Instructor Led Blended training (instructor led/online combination)

6. LMS’ Aid Students When students are logged in they are able to see various training information, such as: Available Courses Completed Courses Previous Test Scores

7. LMS’ Reduce Administrative Work Some LMS systems are capable of performing various administrative tasks automatically. Such tasks include: Online Enrollment Administering Tests & Quizzes Checking that prerequisites are completed before registering Book Hotel Rooms Order training supplies

8. Additional LMS Benefits LMS’ pack a lot of punch. Some of the additional benefits of an LMS include: Immediate access to training Reduced delivery costs Less travel costs for students Consistent training

9. Course Development Actual courseware is not produced in an LMS. Most LMS’ are bundled with a learning content management system (LCMS). An LCMS is where the courses are produced and are important for sequencing your courseware pages. LCMS’ aren’t required but usually work well with LMS’.

10. Implement an LMS Implementing an LMS is a large and costly endeavor. It is recommended you use a consultant to help clear the muddy waters. Many LMS vendors are vying for your business and will make everything sound simple and cheap. Since there are so many vendors it becomes makes it a competitive market, which may benefit your company.

11. Conclusion Now you should have a good understanding of what an LMS is. Be sure to investigate and research as much information as possible before taking on the challenges an LMS incurs. Also remember how valuable an LMS can be, and how helpful and convenient they can be. Good luck on your endeavor.

12. References “ Learning Management System - A Low-Cost LMS with SCORM 2004 support” http://www.e-learningconsulting.com/products/learning-management-system.html Greenberg, Leonard “LMS and LCMS: What’s the Difference” Dec 9. 2002 http://www.learningcircuits.org/NR/exeres/72E3F68C-4047-4379-8454-2B88C9D38FC5.htm