This three part series of posts (Part 2 and Part 3) looks at the broader issues involved in switching Learning Management Systems (LMSs). This is a guide for companies that already have a LMS in place and are looking to switch to a different one.

Often the prospect of changing to a new LMS can be daunting. Thoughts of change may be about

• loss of control,
• excess uncertainty,
• unhappy surprises,
• new learning curve,
• loss of face at admitting the previous system isn't working,
• concerns about competence and
• generally it's just going to be more work.

Rather stick with something you know even if it's broken, than go with something you don't know that may work well? Well, that's a poor philosophy to have, especially in this fast-paced world with constant technological improvement. If you're putting too much time and resources into a LMS that's rarely upgraded or improved, it's time to make a change.

Ask yourself this:

• Is your LMS keeping up with emerging technologies?
• Are you making the most out of the latest technological tools and resources?
• Is your LMS scaling with your company growth?
• Are there outdated features?
• Is the interface complicated or confusing?

The reasons for changing your LMS can be varied, but all probably fall within three categories: the product, the service provider, the cost.

Product

When considering the LMS as a product think about the last time there was a significant systems update. Older systems may not be able to accommodate the multitude of new features that have been developed recently. Today LMSs have automated processes for reducing human administration tasks. LMSs can track and report on leaners. This type of data can be processed automatically to deliver better learning experiences for your employees and a greater understanding for the company owner to see where problem areas exist. Responsive design capabilities are now a global standard. Users must be able to view content on their desktop or laptop computer, their tablet and their mobile phone. Instead of piling on yet another system, modern LMSs can integrate with the company’s existing systems. In general there are more features, streamlining the user experience to be more intuitive and personalised.

Service Provider

The provider you deal with is as important as the final product. Service and support speak of the provider's professionalism in this specialised field. The human touch to a digital product is essential. Consistency in service delivery year after year ensures that you receive quality throughout. Whether you are hosting and managing your own LMS, or have the provider do those for you (or a combination thereof) prompt service support is always good to have. When something goes wrong or when a feature appears to do something contrary, quick access to your service provider means that no time is lost wondering how to troubleshoot it yourself. Prompt customer service reduces bottle necks in the company workflow. Don't wait long on others in order to get work going again.

Cost

Paying for education is one of the hardest things to justify. It's an intangible service that doesn't have immediate, observable returns. Luckily, now, after years of eLearning, online courses and LMSs development there's proof that good online learning systems do in fact provide good ROI. But taking the chance on a new provider and not knowing exactly what you're paying for can be deterring. Are you just paying for pretty bells and whistles or is there some real learning taking place with these add-ons? Transparency and communication are key to waylaying concerns of cost when switching LMSs.

Look out for the next post (Part 2), which explores the process of switching from your old LMS to a new system, and the ins-and-outs of selecting a new LMS.

Sound Idea Digital specialises in Learning Management Systems and eLearning developments |  soundidealearningmanagement.co.za
Sandra is an eLearning Specialist & Content Editor for Sound Idea Digital |  Sandra@soundidea.co.za

To cite this blog article:
Slabbert, S. 2015, November 23. Switching LMS Providers: 1 – Identifying Reasons to Switch. <ideas> the official Sound Idea Digital blog [Web log post]. Available: http://blog.soundidea.co.za/articles/Switching_LMS_Providers_1_Identifying_Reasons_to_Switch-432.html

Source:
Gyrus Systems, 2013. Learning Management System (LMS) Switching Guide. [Online] Gyrus Systems. Available: http://www.gyrus.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/LMS-Switching-Guide.pdf [Accessed 4 Nov. 2015].