Top Learning Management System (LMS) Statistics For 2020 You Need To Know [Infographic]
These Learning Management System statistics will prove why a Learning Management System is important for any corporation. When you want to buy or replace your current LMS, there are particular things that you should look out for. From data migration to built-in gamification and collaborative learning tools, there will be specific features that you might need. It’s important that when researching, you consider which of these tools you want the most. It’s always advisable to budget the costs of each feature before committing to an LMS.
Also, before you look into investing in a new eLearning system within your workplace, it’s a good idea to uncover vital Learning Management System statistics that could affect your decision. Technology is constantly evolving, and because of this, Learning Management Systems have to rapidly develop so that they offer only the most state-of-the-art features. When looking at LMS statistics, it can be difficult to find relevant and accurate information that’s useful for your industry.
You need to acquire statistics that are only from credible sources. Such statistics should have the knowledge and expertise to produce content that’s reliable. In this article, we will highlight the top Learning Management Statistics that every eLearning professional should know for 2020. Whether you are a chief learning officer, HR manager, LMS administrator or training manager, these eLearning statistics will give you invaluable insight into what you can expect in the upcoming year and how the industry is developing.
Can You Keep Up With These Learning Management System Statistics?
As time progresses, eLearning tools and features will continue to advance. An industry that is constantly keeping up with trends, whether that be by implementing VR, AI, or another type of emerging technology, is aiming to bring flexibility, accessibility, and convenience to its customers at a low cost, which won’t drastically affect profit margins. For those working within Corporate America, the knowledge that the eLearning industry is developing is no secret. But the specific statistics behind the developments can be challenging to understand without accurate data. In this article, we will take you through the top 20 eLearning statistics for 2020 which will help you uncover the future of Learning Management Systems.
1. The Global eLearning Market Will Reach $31 Billion By The End Of 2020
You may be aware that the global eLearning market was worth approximately $107 million at the end of 2015 [1]. But by the end of 2020, researchers and marketers believe that the market will reach an impressive $31 billion in revenue [2]. The reasons behind this growth are simple, not only are HR managers and training managers looking for a way to educate their employees in a flexible and low-cost way, but educators are seeing the benefits of introducing a Learning Management System to their students. As it’s an industry that’s changing globally and not just in America, it’s invaluable to see what each LMS can bring to your business.
2. The Global Growth Of The Mobile Learning Market Is Expected To Be Worth $37 Billion By 2020
Mobile learning is rapidly taking over the world. Allowing students to take courses on their phones and employees to access work-related resources within the comfort of their home is a trend that is rising due to the advancement of mobile technology. Today, there are approximately 3.3 billion mobile phones in the world, which means that 42.78% of the world’s population currently has a smartphone [3]. Aimed at enhancing their experience in eLearning, the use of mobile learning will continue to grow as people are adapting to new technology. Almost everyone relies on their phone regularly. A platform for communication and keeping up to date with the goings-on of everyone around them is a must. It makes perfect sense that more businesses and educational institutes are starting to jump on these trends and offer their own relevant eLearning resources.
3. Learning Management System Statistics Show That 30% Of L&D Professions Aim To Incorporate Simulations And Games In 2020
One of the most impactful trends for 2020 is that 30% of Learning and Development professionals plan to incorporate both simulations and games into their eLearning program by the end of 2020 [4]. There are benefits that come with implementing games and simulations, including that it illustrates theoretical business concepts in a way that’s easier to understand, and it also increases engagement and enjoyment. Gamification is a form of active learning. It stimulates employees' minds, and it closes the gap between knowledge and skills.
4. Corporate-Level Executives And Managers Are The Primary Participants In Learning Management Systems
As many corporate businesses use LMS platforms, it might not come as a surprise that the primary participants are corporate-level executives (65%) and managers (35%) [5]. As more corporate businesses start to increase the adoption of digital learning, it’s clear that this figure will continue to grow over the next few years. However, as policies such as Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) continue to grow in significance, the percentage of other businesses adopting an LMS into their structure will adapt alongside this.
There are two main reasons as to why C-level executives and managers are the primary participants. One is because they are usually responsible for setting up training for their staff. The second reason is that they want to further their knowledge and ensure that they are kept up to date with any trends that occur.
5. 58% Of Businesses Are Planning To Adopt Enterprise Social Networks By 2020
Another key statistic is that 58% of businesses are planning to adopt enterprise social networks by 2020. By communicating internally via social media, businesses are seeing increased levels of productivity as employees can talk in real-time. The tools that come with an LMS can greatly benefit them in the long term.
6. 68% Of People Prefer To Learn Within The Workplace
It is interesting to see that 68% of people enjoy learning at the office [7]. This statistic might not come as a surprise. Many would prefer to learn from internal work resources rather than take their work home with them. However, the flexibility that comes with eLearning is directly driving market growth as it improves the overall convenience of being able to learn from anywhere. Giving people the ability to decide when and how they learn, along with being able to establish personalized goals, helps bridge the gap between technology and education.
7. 58% Of Employees Favor Self-Paced Learning
Despite this statistic, the market, in general, is rapidly declining. The market is expected to fall from $18.36 billion in 2020 to $16.97 billion in 2021 across North America [7]. There are many theories as to why this part of the market is decreasing. The main reason is that many found that people aren’t completing their courses on time, as they are losing motivation. Because of this, businesses are looking for new methods to use that will ensure that employees are still engaged and interested in what they are learning.
8. 37% Of Learners Are Adults, Whereas 28% Are Young People
Studies suggest that 37% of online learners are adults, whereas 28% are younger people [9]. This trend, which is ever-changing as the industry develops, showcases the impact that eLearning has had on education. With the number of online learners increasing rapidly, the same will happen with the number of employees that utilize Learning Management Systems.
9. 30% Of Global Learning Management System Buyers Are Tech Companies
Renowned, long-established organizations that spend heavily on technology are said to make up 30% of the entire LMS global market [10]. Providing their employees with a more accessible and flexible training environment, the importance that they put on implementing such technologies will continue to develop as systems advance.
10. Between 2016 And 2020 The Global LMS Market Is Predicted To Grow At A CAGR Of 24%
Research shows that the LMS market is predicted to rise at a compound annual growth rate of 24% between 2016 and 2020 [10]. This rate, which is ever-evolving, once again showcases the impact that LMSs have had on the workplace, and business owners are starting to realize the benefits that they can reap. Ιf you don't have an LMS already but are considering implementing one, you need to focus on your business's objectives. Doing LMS market research will help you define which LMS is best for your business needs.
11. The Corporate eLearning Market Is Predicted To Grow At A CAGR Of 11.41% Between 2016 And 2020
Studies also show that within the corporate world, the CAGR is expected to rapidly rise at a rate of 11.41% [10]. Of course, over the last couple of years, this statistic might have changed. However, the point is still the same. Investing is increasing as organizations are noticing the ROI they are receiving, alongside the increase in productivity levels and communication. Have in mind that evaluating your current LMS is crucial.
12. eLearning Is Increasing The Income Of 42% Of US Organizations
Surveys compiled from 2,500 companies across America showed that by implementing training programs within their business, 42% of them reported an increase in income. Within this same survey, businesses also received a 24% increase in profit margins and a 218% higher revenue for each employee [10]. The employees who have the most up-to-date knowledge of trends and developments within their industry bring this impressive increase in revenue.
Created by dedicating a portion of their week to training, this "microlearning" technique allows them to learn parts of the information at a time, rather than all of the information at once. If you try to implement eLearning and training all at once, it’s clear that it could have the opposite effect, making employees feel unmotivated and that you’re pushing them to learn at a pace that they aren’t comfortable with.
In terms of the increase in profit margins, this will occur by offering training across a wide range of subjects. Increasing the value of an LMS will bring operational costs down. At the same time, it will help ensure that businesses are getting good ROI regarding their LMS.
13. Government Spending Will Fall Rapidly By 2021
Figures compiled by numerous sources suggest that by 2021, government spending will fall to $2.35 billion [11]. This predicted decline is primarily due to the government wanting to spend on new training methods that are more effective within the workplace. As organizations constantly want to recruit new, fresh talent, they will want to offer training opportunities that appeal specifically to millennials. Many organizations realize the impact and importance of millennials within the workforce.
Millennials want a training system that allows for career progression. eLearning, therefore, is a great way of attracting such employees. By offering online training courses, businesses can show these new employees what they have to offer and how they care about them progressing within the industry, while at the same time developing their expertise.
14. IBM Noticed A Return Of $30 For Every $1 Spent On eLearning
In order to succeed within any industry, you need your employees to retain high productivity levels. The more productive they are, the higher your Return On Investment. IBM discovered that despite eLearning being expensive, the levels of productivity increased. They saw that with every $1 spent on eLearning systems, they made back an impressive $30 in return [12].
Showcasing the need for new skills and knowledge, which can be gained from eLearning, other businesses will start to follow in IBM’s footsteps by starting to invest heavily in a state of the art Learning Management System, especially on roles within their organization that are crucial to their bottom line.
15. 72% Of Global Organizations See Learning Management Systems As A Competitive Advantage
In the business world, a competitive advantage could be the difference between business success and business failure. So when something comes up that can give you that edge against others within your industry, it’s always beneficial to take the leap and implement it within your business. In a recent study, it was found that 72% of organizations believed that an LMS gave them a competitive advantage that allowed them to thrive within their industry [13].
Giving employees the knowledge they need to support key operational processes is key. They are therefore able to adapt to any advances that occur within their industry. Managers are using eLearning tools to train their employees in new working practices and industry-related material.
16. Data Shows That Over 51% Of US Employees Are Unengaged At Work
Crucial and informative data collected from a 2015 Gallup poll showcased that a shocking 51% of US employees were unengaged whilst at work [14]. The fact that employees don't have the motivation to succeed and that they are 100% comfortable with their job role is a worrying statistic. The above showcases the importance of finding a solution, no matter what your organization’s size.
Being unengaged at work will also decrease overall productivity levels. It will also result in some suffering from burnout. This is an issue that no organization wants to face. Especially, if they want to retain a good work culture and an empowered workforce. These unengaged employees are also, in turn, reducing the overall workforce morale and this will have an extremely negative impact on the levels of both employee and customer satisfaction.
When comparing this to the 32% that claimed they were engaged, the impact of needing such internal transformations is clear. Even though this smaller percentage shows that some employees are keen to progress there's more to it. If your business notices a lull in operations, it could be time to change up your training methods and start investing in eLearning.
17. The Education Industry Will Increase Spending Between 2017 And 2022
It is predicted that by 2022, the education industry is expected to spend $3.1 billion on enterprise video [6]. This is an increase of $1.6 billion from 2017, this is due to the personalized experience and engaging content that it offers. Reducing operational costs allows for a stronger connection between lecturers and students. Hence, it helps in creating an online community that everyone can access.
Many millennials use such technologies and will want this form of media within their online courses. Without it, they can become unmotivated and feel drained from learning solely from reading texts. By giving students engaging and exciting material makes the learning process a lot more entertaining.
18. 90% Of Students Prefer eLearning To Classroom Learning
As so many people are utilizing technology in their everyday lives, this statistic isn’t shocking. Preferring to learn courses online rather than in the traditional classroom, 90% of students [8] appreciate having all of the resources under one roof. This allows them to have more independence, rather than having to attend a seminar in person is important. It’s now fair to say that by 2020 and beyond, many colleges and universities will take full advantage of LMSs.
19. US College Students Find Digital Learning Technology Helpful For Their Studies
Any student will want eLearning technology that will benefit them in the long term. As the dropout rate is ever-increasing, this more effective way of learning will help to decrease this number. How? By making course completion easier. 43% of students claim that these new technologies are making an impact [15] and are providing them with the assistance that they need to thrive. Because of this, the popularity of such resources will continue to rise.
Not only does eLearning directly help to compartmentalize their course, but it also gives them a more meaningful learning resource, one that has sections that they can easily understand. Thus, they appreciate it more than more traditional methods, such as reading a book from the university library. Focusing on eLearning technology material is beneficial for your students. eLearning material, not only challenges each of the students on what they know, but it also shows them the areas they need to improve.
What Does This Mean?
Allowing them to learn each section of their course step by step (instead of all at once) is crucial. They can begin to master the subject in a more streamlined way. Ensuring their capacity and their ability to learn in the forefront is vital since it increases personalization and adaptability. Also, some students find digital learning technologies more impactful. Why? Because it allows them to repeat video seminars as often as they need. Being able to pause and play different audio clips at a pace that suits them is also helpful.
This will keep the information fresh in their minds and will help them to develop a better understanding. You can also replicate this benefit within the workplace. Similarly, there is another benefit that students can receive from eLearning courses. In comparison to traditional, classroom-taught courses, it can be delivered quicker.
Encouraging a more open approach to learning is key. Thus, they can receive all the information they need in a timely manner. This is better than having to cram all of the information in one go before a crucial exam. Yet again, you can replicate this within the office by giving your employees a more relaxed approach to learning.
20. 49% Of Students Have Taken An Online Course In Last Few Years
A study revealed that in the last few years over 49% of students [16] have taken an online course. This statistic has grown since eLearning started in 2000. It’s clear that it will continue to grow as more colleges and universities take advantage of the technology. With the number of online courses now available, this percentage will undoubtedly continue to rise. The same will happen to the satisfaction levels that students acquire due to the flexibility of eLearning.
Many colleges and universities are also starting to recognize the benefits, even if they are still delivering the majority of their seminars and lectures face-to-face. In terms of expanded knowledge that lies outside of their expertise, they are starting to introduce eLearning into their teaching methods. Giving students the support they need in subject areas that they aren’t confident in is crucial. Thus, eLearning will continue to play a vital role in the education system.
Final Thoughts
Overall, it’s clear to see the impact that eLearning can have within any organization. The possibilities and opportunities that an LMS offers are are undeniable. You should understand the potential of technology before purchasing your first LMS or updating your current version.
By looking at the pros and cons it will become clear if an LMS is needed for your business. Whether you implement a simple system that you can use only for employee training or you look into the other possibilities, for example, Virtual Reality or AI, it’s evident that the technology behind eLearning is ever-evolving.
You have to ensure that you gain a competitive advantage over other organizations within your industry, you are aware of upcoming eLearning trends, and that your employees are working with tech that’s accessible. The benefits that you can reap from eLearning are endless.
References
[1] Global Industry Analysts Inc. | e-learning Market Analysis, Trends And Forecasts
[2] Global Corporate E-learning Market 2016-2020
[3] Μarkets And Markets - Mobile Learning Market Report
[4] Towards Maturity - The Transformation Journey 2019 Annual Research Report
[6] Ovum - 2019 Trends to Watch: Higher Education
[7] LinkedIn - Workplace Learning Report 2018
[8] Online Learning Consortium
[9] Best Colleges - 2019 Online Education Trends Report
[10] The Ambient Insight 2012-2017 Worldwide Mobile Learning Market - Executive Report
[11] e-learning - Market Analysis, Trends And Forecasts
[12] IBM Training - The Value of Training
[13] Brandon Hall Group Research
[14] Employee Engagement in U.S. Stagnant in 2015
[16] Statista - Global student online course usage rate 2015