As experienced learning management system (LMS) developers and implementers, LearnGauge is well positioned to help clients in the selection, implementation, and configuration of an LMS. Learning management systems provide an array of features. When determining the core business drivers justifying the purchase of an LMS (e.g., common issues include training and certification administration, e-Learning delivery and tracking, learning portals, etc.) it is also essential to look beyond the training and development jargon.  Our approach is to first understand the unique business and related organizational learning needs of our clients before identifying “the solution.” Additionally, LearnGauge looks to maximize the benefits and usage of existing systems and solutions that clients may already be using, rather than simply recommending the newest versions of the latest products.

Automated systems are tools.  They are a means to an end.  The process of selecting and implementing an automated system needs to be focused on how well it achieves the means to the end.  Factors external to the learning system itself are often the constraints, which provide the range of reasonable choices.  These factors include: the installed systems environment; numbers of system users and administrators; numbers and types of media used as learning objects; numbers of locations and flexibility of scheduling; integration with other systems in the existing environment; flexibility to adapt as organizational needs change; costs such as implementation, support, maintenance; and risks such as failed implementation, personnel time investment, and vendor stability.

The LearnGauge team has a track record for creating and maintaining large and complex custom learning and competency systems.  Having a full appreciation for the complexity and risk involved in creating and maintaining custom systems, we are very much supportive of employing off-the-shelf systems wherever practical. 

 

For a smaller enterprise with one division and one location that is interested in a learning system that does not necessarily need to integrate to existing systems, there are a variety of inexpensive off-the-shelf choices that will likely satisfy the needs of the organization.

 

For larger enterprises that may have multiple divisions, locations, languages, internal systems environments and may be a product of mergers and acquisitions, a well-conceived requirements process will reduce the risk, cost, and time to implement the system, process and culture to support and encourage continuous learning.  Understanding the must-haves versus nice-to-haves is critical in the winnowing process of vendor selection. 

 

Choosing an off-the-shelf solution will always require certain changes to the organization’s current process by which learning has been facilitated and tracked. This reality should not preclude making the choice for an off-the-shelf solution.  The time, risks, and change that will be required to conform to the design of an off-the-shelf system need to be balanced against the investment in time and the risks inherent in building a custom system.