While many have acclaimed the virtues of using a learning management system (LMS) for training and data collection, others have experienced some challenges. If you’re considering LMS implementation and are concerned about how to best integrate eLearning into your current system, read on to learn about the most common challenges during the transition process.
Data and Reporting
Often, a company doesn’t understand the reporting techniques of an LMS, so they implement an LMS that is useless for their data collection requirements. Some learning management systems only have a set number of report templates with no flexibility or adaptability, hindering information accumulation.
Incompatibility
Some learning management systems only work with MAC operating systems, while others only work with Windows. Still, more programs don’t support non-Microsoft applications, such as Google programs. While this is a major issue, it can be resolved easily by ensuring compatibility with the operating system most used in your office.
Look and Functionality
Many companies complain about the way their LMS looks. It’s boring, ugly and unengaging. No employees want to work with a system that isn’t dynamic and interesting. Properly displayed course titles, videos, and tests in an aesthetically organized catalogue makes your LMS look better and function better.
Read Also: 8 Things You Should Know About LMS Implementation
Even if an LMS looks amazing, you still need to be aware of its usability. An easy-to-use program with simple navigation is essential. Testing an LMS is simple enough, as most learning management systems offer free trials or demos.
HRIS and LMS
After implementing a new eLearning system, HR may suddenly realize that the systems aren’t properly communicating. To ensure proper data interfacing between your HRIS and LMS, you’ll need to create a detailed plan beforehand.
Expensive Modifications
Choosing an LMS on the fly and then customizing it as problems arise can result in expensive modifications and an obstruction in training and reporting until the system is updated. Make sure your LMS runs smoothly by discussing specific needs with your provider before implementation, so they can reconfigure the system accordingly.
Updating the System
Many LMS providers are continuously improving their systems and providing updates. With a cloud-based system, this is especially useful, as you can easily download any patches as soon as they are available. Unfortunately, some systems aren’t improved or updated after their creation. These systems quickly become obsolete, meaning your company is stuck with an expensive, outdated system.
No Mobility
Using a system that is compatible and adjustable to various mobile devices is essential, especially with a cloud-based LMS. For an LMS to be compatible with tablets and phones, it needs to be able to adapt to different screen sizes and resolutions for seamless workflow wherever your employees are operating.
Security
IT security is a serious issue, especially since many learning management systems are used for data storage, which sometimes contains sensitive company information. Discuss protection and security with your provider.
User Difficulties
Sometimes it’s not the system that’s a problem, it’s your employees. Some resent a system that will soon be doing their jobs for them, like training, data collection, and reporting, while others feel that it’s too difficult to relearn their jobs with a new system.
Talk to your employees about the benefits of such a system and address their concerns on the topic.
The Bottom Line
With so many different learning management system options available, it can be difficult to find the one most compatible with your current office systems, your security requirements, and your budget. Dedicate time to researching the best LMS for you and make sure that the system you choose to implement into your company structure properly manages these common challenges and efficiently streamlines the training and administration processes.
Rohit Bhargava is a marketing expert and SEO specialist at Coalition Technologies with over 5 years of experience in website auditing, link building, and SEO. His work has been highly contributive to the success of many websites and software programs, and has been instrumental to the excellent results of his clients’ campaigns. During his free time, he loves to write about new technologies, research and analyze rising software systems, and read. Connect with Rohit on Google+ and Facebook.
Hi Rohit,
Interesting post.
I agree that every LMS software will have its particular challenges depending on the training needs of its users. Some may lack a robust feature set but are more likely to be simple-to-use whereas feature-rich LMS products may require more training, etc.
Believe it or not, there are LMS tools in the market that lack the ability to customize and even support integration with other platforms. Understandably, this is was a major challenge for system users like myself.
Thankfully, after much research, I came across ProProfs Training Maker that offered me complete freedom to customize it, easily change the look and feel of the system, turn certain functions on/off with the click of a mouse and more.
So, according to me, an LMS tool that is scalable, flexible & offers scope for customization should be chosen.