Who builds a better LMS?

There are a variety of LMS' available today. LMS developers are divided into 3 categories:

Pure-Play Providers are companies whose core expertise is in elearning. They have worked with companies, both small and large, to help develop content, provide consulting services, integrate existing enterprise systems, etc. They have been in the trenches. They understand the obstacles and barriers. They are flexible.

Pure-Play providers offer many of the services you will need to make your elearning initiative an elearning reality.

Enterprise Software Companies provide an LMS as an extension of their existing software (ERP, CRM, HRIS, etc.). These LMS' tend to be very rigid and work especially well with their own software but what if you need to integrate multiple systems (CRM and HRIS for example). Will their LMS play well with others?

Enterprise software company LMS' are also generally the most expensive. Upwards from $80,000.

Small Software Companies see an opportunity in the burgeoning elearning industry to build cheap software.

Create an interface, add some tracking and reporting features, make it flexible, put on a pretty ribbon and POOF you have an LMS. They show some good potential and even have some creative ideas but lack the understanding, support and services to help you launch your elearning initiative and achieve your learning goals.

The software is inexpensive but will it grow with your company and your needs?

It is important to ask, "What experience do you have helping clients develop elearning?" and "How can you help us develop a quality elearning program?" Of course there are many other questions to ask but these two provide much insight into what type of support you can expect and if this company is right for you.

An Important Point

Always ask for and check references. This is a simple part of the Due Diligence process but has been overlooked or simply ignored. Believe it or not, the bigger the company the less checking they do. This will never be unimportant. If you check references and don't receive a reply from most or any of the supplied references, beware.