Learning Architecture: Cloud based LMS and its Success rate

In recent years, e-learning has taken over conventional forms of learning in almost all fields- be it school education, IT application or training programs for HR. It is a more effective and convenient form of learning. In fact cloud-based Learning Management Systems are the best ways to create training modules and course materials as they have a far reach and are cost efficient. Let’s find out the whys, hows and whats about cloud based LMS!

What is Cloud based LMS?

Cloud-based learning management system or Cloud based LMS is a form of e- learning or virtual learning that is hosted on the internet. It is a web based tool that is used to administer, plan, track and assess learning processes in an organization. It does not need the user to install the management software and course design. All you need to do is use the internet browsers to create new course content and upload it on the internet and communicate it with the users directly. All the material is on a secure LMS that allows designers to store information that the users can access from anywhere.

Why is Cloud based LMS better than others?

Organizations understand the significance and advantage of switching to online training especially in the sphere of HR but there is always a doubt whether to opt for a locally hosted LMS format or a cloud based one. There are many advantages of having a cloud based LMS. To list a few- 

• Low costs - Costs are a major factor for any training module in an organization. A cloud based LMS does not need any software installation; hence the monetary investment is low. The amount paid for it is based on the usage metrics i.e. the organization only pays for the real usage of the cloud LMS instead of paying for the entire bundle of services. It will reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO). 

• Free Trial - Most of the cloud based LMS offer the users a free trial period of about a month in which users can test the system and ensure that it meets their requirements. Thus, there isn’t any monetary investment involved in it.

• No management of software - A cloud-based learning management system does not need the user to install the software on the hardware system of the company. Hence, it eliminates the need to control the server especially if the IT expertise is unavailable. The software is completely managed by the learning management system provider. The user only needs to log in, create course content and manage its distribution.

• Mobile Friendly - Since all the training and course content is available on cloud, a cloud based LMS can be accessed from anywhere and from any device. If the device can access the portal web page, it can be used to access the LMS. This helps in improving workforce collaborations as the projects can be completed in more a timely and effective manner. It also allows on-the-go learning. They can be customized and are scalable regardless of the size of the organization and the purpose for which the cloud-based LMS has been installed. It is the best way of offering customized and low cost training modules for employees. For instance - TalentLMS, a cloud based LMS will let the users customize the page and help with the tasks at hand. This allows TalentLMS owners to modify and improve the cloud-based LMS in myriad ways, offering the best learning experience for users.

 How can Cloud based LMS help in HR?

The Human Resource systems of any organization are complex. They are a combination of systems, people and processes and it becomes a major challenge to integrate them. However, cloud technologies have changed the HR landscape significantly.

The main work of HR is to engage and retain top talent force as well as hire and onboard new people. To be able to do efficient and successful talent management it is imperative to have a rich learning culture that can enhance the organization's efficiency. With an organization growing in size, online learning tools are the best ways to handle training and on boarding of new employees as well as offer enhanced training to top talent. It can have a gamut of training and learning programs automated on the system, thereby, reducing the responsibility of a dedicated employee for training purposes.

For example- big corporations like Intel, Google use Deskera Cloud HRMS, a cloud based LMS for recruitment, payroll, employee claims, training, attendance and much more. It is the best way of handling hire-to-retire program of each employee. It offers optimal ROI on employees by tracking their productivity with the given KPIs and tasks.

Learning management systems have pre-approved material in the form of worksheets, handouts and quiz that can take a new employee through the initial processes of the company. Many organizations use learning management solutions to create, organize and execute training courses for employees. A cloud based LMS is the most effective and cost efficient way for HR professionals to hone the skill-sets of employees as it allows them to-

Identify requirements- A cloud based LMS can be combined with a HR solution that will let the HR team identify gaps in employee skill-sets, track employee performance and decide on the training needed for each employee. For instance- TalentLMS is one of the best online tools to train employees in a fun manner using gamification; keep a track of their progress and also customize the program as per the requirement.

A cloud based LMS allows the onboarding of employees to be a seamless and smooth process with the exact same set of information and procedures and processes given to each new hire so that there is no chance of ambiguity or doubt. Big companies like Thomson Reuters and Bloomberg use Docebo, an acclaimed cloud based LMS to have an easy and hassle free induction of new employees. It has online training courses that can be accessed through a mobile application along with a free 14-day trial, making it cost efficient and also flexible.

Evaluate performance - An LMS allows the HR team to analyse and evaluate every employee’s performance post training. It can also give feedback and run surveys on the usability and relevance of training material. This would in turn help the HR team improvise on training programs. Adobe Captivate Prime is one of the most popular cloud based LMS that allows the user to setup, execute and track training courses and their impact on the business. It uses mobile learning and gamification to offer a stimulating experience to the user.

Increase ROI- A company’s ROI depends on the streamlined processes, methodologies, tools and systems in place. With computed LMS functions as part of the learning architecture, employee retention and business agility remains intact. Using a good cloud based LMS like Enhance that offers Unilink, a single dashboard for different HR applications or RNET, a need analysis software; the company can offer up-to-date programs for employee training in an interactive manner in alignment with the goals of the company. This provides the impetus for employees to work in the organization in productively; thereby, increasing ROI.

A cloud based learning management system is the way forward for any organization-big or small. In fact the global LMS market is expected to increase at a CAGR of 24.7% from $ 5.22 billion in 2016 to $ 15.72 billion in 2021. It is a critical factor in imparting company values and culture smoothly; and offer training and onboarding seamlessly. The flexibility and scalability attained through LMS is unparalled.