The LMS, or learning management system, is quickly growing in popularity. The perks are numerous to speeding up the training process, but many brands are still having second thoughts. The simple reason is that they have not chosen the right LMS for their needs. Most brands get turned off simply because they don’t know what to look for — or rather, what to avoid when making a final choice.

Suppose you go shopping, you will find the same product from different brands. When you do not research, you end up with a low-quality product. In the long run, this can make the whole effort futile.

The same happens with the LMS software selection process. Many may offer similar options, but not all are the right choice for any specific brand. You need to know which one best suits your purpose.

What Mistakes should you avoid while choosing a Learning Management System?

It’s common to make mistakes, especially when you have no idea which direction you are headed. The experts can definitely help, if you’re willing to listen. The LMS market is huge, but you will only be able to reap the benefits if you choose the right software.

Here are some mistakes that you need to avoid at all costs when choosing LMS:

1. Basing the Selection on Price Tag.

Many commit the mistake of opting for the most affordable software sources. You need to understand that most LMS will offer free trials, but the actual software will cost you. Low priced software may end with more expenses in the long run. So, don’t risk it.

You will also need to ascertain if there are hidden costs. Many companies offer the software at a low price, but there are numerous hidden costs that end up burning a huge hole in your pocket. Do not fall in the trap of such vendors. Look for one who offers customers transparency.

2. Ignoring the Testing Part.

A vendor will always be out to sell the software. They can show you a boatload of features, but do they actually work? You need to take a test drive first, right? This is the most effective way of dealing with the software selection process, to ensure it is the best solution for you.

Most people completely forget about this part, and end up with software that is of no use to them. Don’t make the same mistake! Take it for a run, and buy only after you are satisfied.

3. Selection with the help of an inappropriate RFI/RFP.

If you are planning to shift to a new LMS, or are starting for the first time, do not forget to form RFI (Request for Information) or RFP (Request for Product). You will also need to jot down the list of features that you expect to receive, along with a budget that you have in mind. If you have an inappropriate RFI or RFP, you will be stuck with the wrong product. You need to ascertain the needs of the students and act accordingly.

You can find some RFI/RFP templates, but these may be set up for the benefit of the vendor, so take a note of how to create one on your own from the templates.

4. Unmatched Features & Training Requirements.

If you do not know what you need, then how do you plan on finding the right LMS software? You will end up with features that don’t suit your organisation’s needs. The vendor may show you 100 features. You need only focus on the ones that you actually need and test them out. This way you’ll find the perfect LMS software the first time you buy.

5. Lack in Future Planning.

No business stays stagnant! With growth of the business, there will be changes in your requirements. The LMS software that worked five years ago, may become obsolete for your business today! So, plan ahead, to reduce delays in delivery and execution. You will also need to ensure that it has features like mobile E-learning, AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) support, as well as personalised learning paths, just to name a few.  Without these features, your LMS software can become obsolete within 5 years.

Some vendors also offer upgrades and a high-grade support team. So, you should get the updates on a regular basis. You need to stay updated or end up changing the LMS software again and again.

Conclusion

Now you know what needs to be avoided and the aspects that you should cover. So, get a clear idea about what you want, have a vision of what you plan, and then start the selection process for appropriate LSM integration.