Buying an LMS? Make the right choice

Libby Cross, Senior Marketing Executive

The LMS you choose will likely be a significant part of your learning programme, and can be a major investment. Here’s a handy checklist of the key questions to ask when choosing your LMS, so you can be confident in your decision:

1. Who wants what?

Finding out exactly what everybody involved needs when buying a Learning Pool Platform is a great place to start. Don’t waste time comparing features nobody will use. Run a survey or a focus group to find out what everyone needs and start from there.

2. How much flexibility do we want?

Keep in mind that your requirements could change in the future. You might decide to rebrand or cater to a new audience. There is no telling what might happen so choosing a future proof, flexible LMS puts you in a stronger position to address challenges like these.

3. Will the platform grow with our needs?

Your organisation might grow over time so it’s important that you aren’t locked into a platform that isn’t capable of growing with you.
You might double your audience in the first year, can you support this?
It’s a good idea to prepare for these possibilities as far in advance as possible so you are ready to deal with any future increase in demand.

4. What if we change our minds?

Say there is a change in company direction, this shouldn’t be hindered by a learning programme that can’t keep up.

Your LMS needs to change with you, here is where open source LMSs come into their own – if your learning partner is no longer in line with your company strategy, you can simply take your LMS elsewhere to be managed by someone who better fits your requirements.

5. What are the main drivers?

Maybe you’re on a tight budget, or you need to get your LMS up and running within a specific timeframe. Think realistically about your drivers, and don’t be swayed by a platform that doesn’t fit your important practical criteria.
Getting started with an LMS doesn’t need to be a pain and making a check list and planning ahead can save a lot of time in the long run and help you get the right fit for your company.