How To Choose The Best Value For Money LMS Using An Online LMS Directory
It can be difficult to know which LMS is right for your organization’s training needs, even if you have your learning objectives and outcomes ironed out. The internet is a big place filled with LMS vendors all vying for your business. A simple search engine query won’t help you narrow down the top contenders based on your specifications. This makes online directories a good place to start when you’re in the market for a new, value for money LMS. The trick is to use these directories effectively so that you save yourself money, time, and stress.
1. Pick The Right Online LMS Directory
Some online LMS directories have already established their reputations and boast an extensive database with filtering options. Many directories simply use web crawlers to aggregate data from hundreds of other listings without verification. However, the eLearning Industry’s directory is compiled manually and contains hand-picked LMS solutions. You also have the ability to narrow down the search results based on specific criteria, such as deployment type and features.
2. Read The Value For Money LMS Reviews
We have all trained ourselves to scan online resources rather than deep reading. We’re also habitual users of review sites. Without thinking, we will glance at the number of stars an item has and base our decision on that. However, comments and written reviews give a clearer picture. Look through the comments to see what they say about specific items of importance. Zero-in to functions and features that your company requires, seeing how good a fit the LMS is for you. eLearning Industry’s listing also features a pros/cons section that allows you to gather better insight. Users are able to explain what they liked best about the platform, as well as what they disliked. Another added perk is the reviewer profile feature that includes the user’s industry, company size, and experience with the software. Thus, you can zero-in on reviews from those with similar online training needs.
3. Filter By Pricing Model When Deciding Your Value For Money LMS
You can filter the listings based on licensing type and pricing model to find the best value for money LMS. Such as solutions that offer subscription-based pricing and one-time purchased licenses. Thus, you’re able to select platforms that fit into your budget. You can also find out which LMS vendors offer free trials or demos in order to try before you buy. Customize your listings even further by selecting the ideal deployment type for your organization, from self-hosted systems to SaaS platforms.
4. Consider The Intended Use Of Each Value For Money LMS
The use case has a direct impact on an LMS. For example, a system that’s intended for academic learning may not live up to expectations in corporate learning environments. However, you have the option to select a specific use case in the eLearning industry’s directory to narrow your search results. This includes workforce development, public sector external, and compliance online training.
5. Check The Data Tracking Capabilities
Metrics are everything. In an LMS, they can be the difference between successful online training and lost time. Think about the kind of data you’d like to acquire, then check the listings. eLearning Industry’s LMS directory gives vendors the opportunity to specify their reporting options, which covers everything from training record maintenance and automated scheduling to the dashboard and graphic reports. As such, you can find an LMS that gives you the analytics you need to improve online training ROI and effectiveness.
6. Evaluate The Support Services
Support services are a crucial component of a value for money LMS. More advanced support options allow you to overcome minor obstacles and make the most of the tool. For example, the LMS vendor’s tech support team can help you navigate any programming glitch or data migration challenge. The eLearning Industry’s directory highlights every LMS’s support services, ranging from email and FAQs to an online knowledge base and phone support.
7. Compare Your Top Choices
You may be able to whittle down the choices to 2 or 3 platforms that offer the best value for money. But how do you choose between them? Our online LMS directory gives you the chance to compare up to 3 value for money LMS platforms and see how their selling points stack up. Then you can request a quote from those that are still in the running. The system highlights 5 key areas: user satisfaction, performance review, pricing, overview, and features. You’ll also find direct links to their websites to familiarize yourself with the LMS vendor and request more information.
8. Take A Closer Look At The Performance Overview
The performance overview covers everything from the tool’s usefulness and usability to the Customer Experience. It also features a ‘likelihood to recommend’ score and overall rating. Ideally, you need an LMS with a proven track record and high satisfaction rating among past and current users. The performance overview allows you to evaluate the tool at a glance. Then examine the reviews more closely to see if it’s a good match for your organization.
Online directories are a great place to find any product. They sift through the swathes of available options and curate something easier to use. However, an online directory is only as good as its moderator, so pick a well-established site, such as eLearning Industry. Lots of customers offer star-based reviews, but it’s the comments that are helpful, so read through those. Finally check the LMS’s capability for analytics, metrics, and reporting features to ensure that you get the best value for money LMS.
Our eBook Value For Money Learning Management Systems offers all the information you need to get the best value for money LMS. It offers tips to evaluate your current platform and determine if it’s worth the investment, as well as a step-by-step guide to calculating LMS ROI.
