How To Choose A Responsive Design LMS: 5 Things To Consider
Responsive design Learning Management Systems give you the power to design a single master eLearning course that can be accessed on multiple devices and browsers. All of the eLearning course elements automatically adjust based on the screen size, resolution, and navigation interface. As a result, every member of your audience receives the same eLearning experience, regardless of whether they are using a smartphone, tablet, or desktop PC. Here are 5 questions that you should consider before selecting your new responsive design LMS.
1. Which devices are your online learners using?
Generally speaking, responsive design platforms should be able to adapt to any device or browser. However, there are some Learning Management Systems which offer features that may not be supported by all devices, and vice versa. For example, some LMS solutions may not switch the screen orientation with ease, which could lead to learner frustration. Likewise, there are certain mobile devices that cannot play Flash content, meaning that some of your learners would be unable to access multimedia if you are using a Flash-based tool. Therefore, it's vital to research your target audience to determine which devices they'll be using to participate in the eLearning course.
2. Are online learners able to access the content offline?
Many HTML5 based LMS platforms now feature offline viewing, which means that your online learners can access the eLearning content anywhere, anytime. They have the opportunity to download any of the eLearning materials that they need on-the-go, then the platform will automatically sync with the device when they connect to the web. This can be extremely useful in the workplace, as employees can simply download the information they need without having to maintain a constant Wi-Fi connection. Many LMS vendors will mention this feature on their site. If not, ask them whether their platform is Flash or HTML5-based and if learners can download the content to any device or print it out. Some LMS vendors even offer printer-friendly versions of your eLearning content.
3. Is the LMS platform easy to navigate?
Navigation can be a bit more complicated when it comes to mobile-friendly eLearning content, as it isn't simply a matter of point-and-click. Mobile devices feature swipe, scroll, and touch capabilities that allow learners to directly interact with the eLearning course. As such, your new responsive LMS must be able to support all of these functions in order to increase navigability. In addition, the LMS should have a previewer that gives you a sneak peek of the content before you publish. This can help to ensure that all of the navigation icons, clickable objects, and links are in the proper place. For example, you can use the previewing tool to determine if a navigation button needs to be smaller to accommodate mobile phone screens. Aside from online learner navigation, the LMS you choose should also feature a user-friendly design interface. Otherwise, your eLearning team may not get the functionality it needs to develop meaningful mobile learning experiences. If it doesn't have an intuitive User Interface (UI), and there is a steep learning curve involved, then you may want to opt for another responsive LMS platform.
4. Can the LMS keep your data safe?
A responsive LMS absolute MUST ensure the safety of your sensitive information, such as user data and confidential eLearning course content. This safety usually comes in form of encrypted coding and a secure data storage location. Ideally, you'll want to choose a LMS that backs up your information on the Cloud, just in case anything should happen to their servers. Don't hesitate to ask them about their data safety track record and if they've had any security breaches. You can also look up reviews from clients to see if there were any issues in the past. If there is any doubt in your mind that your data won't be protected, that is reason enough to look elsewhere for another responsive LMS vendor.
5. Does the LMS vendor offer support services?
Even eLearning professionals who are tech experts need a little help now and then. You may encounter a glitch in the eLearning software or have trouble enrolling an online learner, which is why it's important to find a responsive LMS that offers the right level of support. Some might give you round the clock access to a live representative via their toll free number, while others only offer limited email support or an online FAQ. Carefully examine their site to see if they have tutorials, an online forum, or any other support resources that can be of use to you. Also, read online reviews to learn as much as possible about their level and quality of service. Do their clients rave about their top notch client care, or does it take them a week to respond to an email? Most importantly, ask whether they charge extra for their support services or if it's included in the package. If they do offer additional support for a charge, determine if it is really worth the investment or if you can make do with the basic support services they offer.
Responsive design Learning Management System can save you a significant amount of time and money, given that you can deploy your master eLearning course on virtually any platform. These can help you choose the LMS that is ideal for your eLearning course design, so that mobile learners and PC users alike won't miss out on any of the benefits. You can also get an LMS quote tailored to your needs in as little as 3 minutes. This simple 5-step process will help you find the Learning Management System that works best for you.
Are you still undecided about whether a responsive design LMS is right for you? Read the article Responsive Design In Mobile Learning: 5 Reasons To Develop Mobile-Friendly Online Courses to discover the reasons why you may want to switch to a responsive platform for developing mobile learning experiences.
