What is a Learning Management System (LMS)?

A learning management system, or LMS, is a software package that allows training programs to be administered, documented, and tracked, as well as deliver e-learning content and resources to trainees. One of the biggest advantages to web-based LMS systems is open access to content and administration anytime and anywhere.

At the most basic level, LMS systems allow for student registration, deliver e-learning materials, enable discussions and communication between students and instructor, track progress, and test students on material. More advanced systems can allocate resources such as text books and manuals, offer tools such as competency management, hold virtual live classes, and generate skills-gap analysis.

An LMS system cannot create or manipulate content on its own. That’s where a learning content management system (LCMS) comes in. The LCMS can create, manage, and deliver e-learning content. It allows users to create, import, manage, and reuse learning content and assets, or learning objects. The two systems work together to deliver substantial, up-to-date e-learning content to students.

Learning Management Systems have the ability to become SCORM compliant, allowing streamlined access to e-learning materials. SCORM offers reusability that can be implemented into multiple applications, so there’s one standardized system that can be easily translated by LMS users. By making your LMS SCORM compliant, users will be able to easily operate and absorb their e-learning materials, allowing for better training retention and heightened knowledge and performance.