Top Myths about Learning Management Systems

Learning management systems (LMS) have a lot to offer, but many administrators and educators find themselves confused by the myths surrounding these systems. Misinformation can be costly, so it’s essential to be aware of the myths. Here’s a look at some of the most common myths about learning management systems and the truth you need to know.

Myth 1 - A Learning Management System is a Big Expense Many people have the idea that a learning management system is just a big expense. While companies do need to make an investment when purchasing an LMS, these systems can offer an excellent return on investment. Adding new technology to your company always requires an initial investment, but most companies actually find out that employing a LMS actually pays off in the long run, saving time and money for the company.

Myth 2 - LMS Products Don’t Perform Well on the Market Another common myth surround these systems is the idea that LMS products don’t perform well on the market. That’s not true. In fact, plenty of large companies are beginning to employ learning

management systems. In fact, one LMS, Moodle, was ranked 11th in 2013 on the list of “Top 100 Tools for Learning.” These products are continuing to rise in popularity, since many companies are beginning to understand all the benefits that these products have to offer. The training technology systems industry is only predicted to grow in the future, so these products will only increase in popularity in the future.

Myth 3 - Options are Limited with a LMS Some individuals feel that the options are limited when using a LMS. However, a huge selection of options is available to businesses and educational institutions that use these systems for education and training. Just a few of the areas of functionality offered by most LMS systems include delivery of course content, certification and curriculum management, skill gap analysis, resource management, registration and administration of students/employees, the authoring of courseware and management of training records.

Myth 4 - People Won’t Embrace Learning Management Systems The idea that students or employees won’t embrace learning management systems is another big myth about these systems. Trainers and instructors are constantly looking for solutions that will enhance and improve learning. Technology has the ability to improve learning and many companies and educational institutions are using these systems for improved learning. To successfully implement these systems, it’s important that companies and educational institutions create a culture that involves instructors and teachers anticipating the changes so technology can be leveraged.

Myth 5 - Once it’s installed the LMS Doesn’t Require Any Work One of the biggest myths about a learning management system is the idea that it doesn’t require any work once it is installed. While planning and selection are both extremely important, you can’t just forget about the system once it is installed. After it is active, it’s essential to have qualified administrators that oversee the LMS. Administrators can ensure that the system is evaluated and make sure that the right individuals are participating. Individuals who administer the system must have the correct skills needed to manage the system so that workflow standards and defined objectives are met.

Myth 6 - You Don’t Need to Upgrade or Change Your LMS Companies that already have a LMS in place think that they don’t need to upgrade or change the system they have in place. However, that is another myth. Even if you have made the investment in a learning management system in the past, it doesn’t mean that the system is going to meet your needs forever. It’s fairly easy to transfer content and data between systems and some companies find that they need a new system that will accommodate new needs, since needs tend to change over time. Are you currently exploring LMS options? If so, make sure you’re aware of the common myths surrounding these systems. As you prepare to purchase a learning management system, keep this information in mind so common myths don’t negatively affect your decision.

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