A Learning Management System (LMS) is a software application for you to deliver your courses and training programs. Choosing the right LMS for your coaching practice can be complex. It’s important that you understand your specific needs and goals so that you choose a system that works for you.
The What For
The first question to answer is what will you be delivering in the context of media and text. If you use video in your training, the LMS you choose must be able to support video files and you will probably need a built-in video player. The length of your content matters, too.
You may also be offering interactive opportunities or gamifed elements, like bonuses and badges to be earned. If so, your Learning Management System needs some extra bells and whistles!
A Learning Management System (LMS) is a platform for delivering training.
Ease of Use
Perhaps the most important consideration is the ease of use — for you AND your clientele. Nobody will enjoy your training if they struggle using the platform. And you won’t successfully launch your courses if the technology is too complicated. Finding the right balance between ease of use and robust options will take research.
Keep in mind how your client uses technology. Will they take your training through their mobile device, tablet or desktop computer? Functionality may change depending on how they consume your content. Choosing a Learning Management System that is mobile and desk top friendly will allow your clients to take your course(s) whenever and wherever they are.
Integration
Integration with other systems is also important to consider. The LMS you choose needs to fit right in with your existing systems, like your scheduler or bank account. Integrate with your existing HR systems, such as HRIS and HCM systems, if you want to manage employee data and records. If you want to track compliance or certification training for employees, it should integrate with compliance management or certification management systems.
Security and Controls
Another important element is security. Make sure that the systems you are investigating meet standard protocols for transmitting data securely. Some questions you should ask are: 1. Can you control the conversations? 2. Can you flag spam? 3. Can you protect content from being changed by others?
Your Learning Management System must follow standard protocols for transmitting data securely.
Growing Pains
Be sure to choose an LMS platform that gives you room to grow. Look a few years into the future and try to see what additional features you might want as you expand your courses and your clientele. For example, maybe later you will want to add time limits to access or set up unique discounts. Make sure the system can handle your growth.
One thing to avoid is switching platforms because you outgrew another! Consider how painful it would be to have to learn a new system and upload all your old content because your LMS is unable to handle the number of clients you are now attracting.
Management
One final consideration will be the cost to run the platform itself. Monthly fees are one thing, but you may incur additional expenses. For example, are you hiring someone to run it for you? Who will maintain the system and do upgrades? Time is money, so determine the time needed to manage the LMS so that it functions seamlessly and delivers your courses without effort.
In closing, in order to choose the right system for your coaching practice, you need a good understanding of your goals and what you need in a Learning Management System. By looking at the above when doing your due diligence, you will be able to implement a platform that will provide great benefits to your coaching business long into the future!
Check out The Coach Business Guide: The Path to Launch and Grow your Coaching Practice, Chapter 32 – Tools for Continued Growth for more information and help.
