# 11 Must-Have LMS Features Checklist for New LMS Buyers

- Link: https://www.jlm.ec/11-must-have-lms-features-checklist-for-new-lms-buyers/
- Published: 2017-07-08T12:28:56-05:00
- Author: Juan Lasso

⌊lambda-solutions-customer-engagement.jpg⌉⌊lambda-solutions-customer-engagement.
jpg⌉

So, you’ve made the decision to switch to online training and now it’s time to find
the best tool for the job. Namely, a Learning Management System that can live up
to your expectations and warrant the investment. The secret is selecting an LMS 
that delivers all the right perks without wasting resources on unnecessary functions.
Here’s a top 11 list of the quintessential [LMS features](https://elearningindustry.com/tags/lms-features)
that new LMS buyers should consider.

_Are you ready to invest in a Learning Management System? Before you do, read this
article to discover 11 must-have LMS features new LMS buyers should look for._

## 11 Must-Have LMS Features New LMS Buyers Should Look For

 

### 1. Intuitive User Interface

It all begins with an [**intuitive user interface**](https://elearningindustry.com/tips-create-effective-user-interface-design)
that every member of your eLearning team can use to create meaningful online training
courses. All of the LMS features included on this list hinge on a user-friendly 
LMS platform that aligns with the skills and experience levels of your collaborators.
As such, it’s one of the key factors to consider when test-driving the new tool.
You should also meet with your eLearning team to learn as much as possible about
their personal preferences and LMS requirements.

### 2. Customization And Personalization

This is a broad category with multiple facets. Your LMS should allow you to customize
certain aspects of the user interface and online training content. For example, 
integrate branding elements so that you can produce online training materials that
align with your image. However, it must also give you the opportunity to provide
[**personalized online training**](https://elearningindustry.com/?s=Personalized+Online+Training)
resources to your corporate learners. For instance, individualized online training
paths wherein they can choose their own online training activities and modules.

### 3. Flexible Reporting And Analytics

You have to track various aspects of your online training course to ensure effectiveness
and properly allocate resources. As such, your LMS needs to have robust reporting
and analytics that mesh with your online training objectives. Many LMS platforms
even feature customizable [**LMS reports**](https://elearningindustry.com/lms-reports-elearning-professional-needs-check)
whereby you can generate metrics based on your online training pain points. Ideally,
the LMS should also include visual representations of the data so that you can quickly
spot patterns and adjust your online training strategy accordingly.

### 4. Social Learning Integration

Most modern online training courses provide some level of [**social learning**](https://elearningindustry.com/tags/social-learning)
support. For example, corporate learners are able to access social media groups 
or online discussions via the LMS. This allows them to interact with their peers,
share feedback, and exchange information. Your new [**LMS**](https://elearningindustry.com/directory/software-categories/learning-management-systems)
should give you the opportunity to integrate these informal learning tools and track
them with ease. For instance, corporate learners can create a blog post and report
it within the system for **course credit. **

### 5. Responsive Design Support

Corporate learners want to get the information whenever the need arises. Thus, your
new LMS must be able to provide [**mobile-friendly online training courses**](https://elearningindustry.com/tips-developing-mobile-friendly-elearning-courses)
that are accessible on any device. Furthermore, it should give you the power to 
deploy downloadable online training content for offline viewing. Corporate learners
can complete the online training activity without an Internet connection, then update
their progress when they log back into the Learning Management System.

### 6. Assessment Tools

Aside from LMS reports and analytics, the most direct way to track learner engagement
and progress is to conduct [**online training assessments**](https://elearningindustry.com/qualitative-elearning-assessment-methods-track-online-learners-progress).
This can range from branching scenarios and online training simulations to written
exams. The goal is to gauge their comprehension so that you can provide personalized
recommendations. The LMS should support a broad range of online assessment methods
and allow you to provide immediate feedback.

### 7. Certification And Compliance

This is a top priority for online training developers who need to be able to track
compliance initiatives. Some LMS platforms enable you to maintain up-to-date records
in the event of an audit. You can also offer certification online training programs
that cater to specific skills or tasks. For example, [**customer service**](https://elearningindustry.com/?s=Customer+Service)
online training certificates to ensure that every member of your team has the necessary
talents and is able to follow company protocols in order to accurately reflect your
brand image.

### 8. Data Security Protocols

You need to know that your sensitive data is safe from prying eyes. As such, your
LMS should have data security measures in place to safeguard your information. For
example, protected servers and encryption protocols to prevent hacks. When in doubt,
ask the LMS vendor about their data safety policies and if they’ve encountered any
breaches in the past. You can also look for online reviews and ratings from previous
clients.

### 9. Resource Compatibility

Ideally, your new LMS must be compatible with your current resources. That includes
your online training materials and software. For example, third-party [**eLearning authoring tools**](https://elearningindustry.com/directory/software-categories/elearning-authoring-tools)
that you use to create interactive scenarios or simulations. Furthermore, the LMS
should make data migration a stress-free task instead of having to convert all of
your existing data into a new format before you upload it to the LMS platform.

### 10. Online Collaboration Tools

Built-in online collaboration tools include video conferencing software and community
calendars. They allow you to create interactive and engaging online training experiences
that remove geographical limitations. Not to mention, ensure that your corporate
learners are kept in the loop regarding updates of online training courses and synchronous
learning events, such as live [**webinars**](https://elearningindustry.com/tips-host-online-training-webinars-global-workforce)
where they can ask questions and offer feedback.

### 11. Feedback System

The best way to gather opinions about your online training course is to ask corporate
learners directly. Therefore, one of the LMS features that you need is a built-in
feedback system to collect and compile user data. For example, organize all of the
survey data and then create a companion graph. At the very least, it should have
a survey or polling tool so that you can test the waters from time to time.This 
must-have LMS features checklist can help you find the best LMS platform for your
corporate eLearning project. You should also create an accurate online training 
budget beforehand in order to narrow down the candidates and allocate your resources
more effectively. Last, but not least, schedule a meeting with potential LMS vendors
to clarify any questions or concerns you may have. You want to be absolutely certain
before you make any long-term commitments.Are you confused by the many options available
in the LMS market? Read the article [**5 Easy Steps To Get A Learning Management System Quote Tailored To Your Needs In Less Than 3 Minutes**](https://elearningindustry.com/learning-management-system-quote)
to narrow down your choices to the top 5 LMS vendors that better match your company’s
requirements.

 

**FUENTE**: http://blog.lambdasolutions.net/must-lms-features-checklist-new-lms-
buyers