Introduction
As the workplace evolves in this new era, continuous learning and skills development are more important than ever for both employees and businesses. A robust training management system is crucial to effectively onboard new hires, ensure compliance, and empower employees at every level to enhance their skills on an ongoing basis. In this comprehensive review, we analyze 15 top LMS platforms based on key criteria like functionality, ease of use, pricing, support and more to help you choose the best one for your organizational needs.
Methods of Evaluation
To assess and rank the training management systems, we evaluated each solution based on the following conventional criteria: features and functionality, ease of use, reporting and analytics capabilities, customization options, pricing and payment plans. In addition, we also factored in modern ranking signals like number of backlinks, organic traffic and keyword trend data to determine which platforms have the strongest online presence and market position currently.
1. Drupal Learning Management
Drupal Learning Management is an open source learning management system built with the Drupal content management platform. As an LMS created by Drupal, it aims to provide a seamless experience for sites already using Drupal as their main CMS.
Pros: Some key advantages of Drupal Learning Management include:
– Open source and customizable – Being open source means it can be freely modified and extended.
– Integrates seamlessly with Drupal CMS – Provides a unified experience for users across learning content and regular site content.
– Robust permissions and user management – Leverages Drupal’s powerful and flexible user management system.
– Great community support resources – Large, active community provides extensive documentation and support forums.
Cons: As an open source product, one potential disadvantage is a lack of commercial support options from the core developers. Some sites may prefer a learning management system with formal support contracts.
Pricing: Since Drupal Learning Management is open source software, there are no licensing fees. However, sites will need to budget for development, customization, hosting and maintenance which are not included in the core software download.
Some key stats about Drupal Learning Management include:
– Used by over 30,000 sites worldwide
– Over 1 million downloads annually
– Supported by a large, active developer community
– Integrates fully with all core Drupal features and functionality
2. TalentLMS
TalentLMS is a cloud-based learning management system (LMS) created by TalentLMS to help organizations develop and train their employees. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in San Francisco, TalentLMS offers a fully hosted eLearning platform to create, deliver, track and report on training efforts.
Pros: Some key advantages of TalentLMS include its affordable pricing designed for all business sizes, its user-friendly design and navigation, and its robust reporting and customization options.
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that it may not have as many advanced feature capabilities compared to some of the highest-priced LMS options on the market.
Pricing: TalentLMS offers flexible pricing plans starting from free for up to 10 users to professional plans for $29-99/user/month depending on the number of users and desired features.
Some key stats about TalentLMS include: used by over 5,000 companies worldwide, has delivered over 100 million courses to 13 million learners, courses can be accessed on any device via a responsive design, and integrates with over 75+ other business apps like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Google Workspace.
3. SAP SuccessFactors
SAP SuccessFactors is a leading cloud-based human capital management (HCM) solution. The company provides a comprehensive talent management suite that helps organizations manage the entire employee lifecycle from recruitment to retirement. Some key offerings include core HR, payroll, performance and goal management, learning, succession planning, and more.
Pros: Some key advantages of SAP SuccessFactors include: – Holistic talent management suite that addresses the entire employee lifecycle – Robust tools and capabilities to support very large and complex global organizations – Highly configurable and flexible platform that can be tailored to unique business needs and processes – Seamless integration with SAP’s ERP solutions for a unified view of HR and finance data
Cons: One potential disadvantage is the large price tag that comes with SAP SuccessFactors, as it is an enterprise-grade solution tailored for large organizations. The high costs may put it out of reach for some small to mid-sized businesses.
Pricing: Pricing for SAP SuccessFactors depends on the modules implemented, number of users, and any additional customizations or services required. But in general, organizations can expect an annual subscription cost in the mid-five figures for the core HCM modules and increasing from there based on needs and scale.
Some key stats about SAP SuccessFactors include: – Over 5,000 customers globally across all industries – Supports organizations with over 100,000 employees – More than 45 million users on the SuccessFactors platform – Over 30 years of experience in HCM from SAP – Part of the larger SAP ecosystem for seamless ERP integration
4. Canvas LMS
Canvas LMS is a learning management system developed by Instructure. It is used by K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and businesses to provide eLearning, training, and online education. Some key features of Canvas LMS include tight integration with the Canvas learning platform, advanced learning tools and assessments, and wide adoption across schools and universities globally.
Pros: Some key advantages of Canvas LMS include:
– Tight integration with Canvas LMS learning platform
– Many advanced learning tools and assessments
– Wide adoption in schools and universities
– Powerful grading and analytics capabilities
– Robust mobile apps for both iOS and Android
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that Canvas LMS may have a somewhat higher total cost of ownership compared to other open-source LMS solutions due to licensing fees.
Pricing: Canvas LMS pricing starts at $60 per user per year for the basic plan, which provides basic features for course management and online learning. Higher tiers include additional capabilities like analytics, mobile apps, and support starting at $96 per user annually.
Some key stats about Canvas LMS include:
– Used by over 250 million users worldwide
– Implemented at over 5,000 schools, colleges and universities globally
– Supports over 30 languages
– Includes features for online quizzes, assignments, grades, attendance and collaborative learning tools
5. LearnWorlds
LearnWorlds is an online course platform that allows users to create, sell and promote online courses. Founded in 2014, LearnWorlds provides all the tools needed to build engaging online courses and communities.
Pros: Some key advantages of LearnWorlds include:
– Custom eLearning authoring tools that allow for building interactive courses easily
– Personalized activity and content recommendations to keep students engaged
– Lightweight and intuitive user interface that is easy to use for both students and instructors
– Support for SCORM and HTML5 course formats for maximum compatibility
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free plan only allows for a single course. However, even the lowest paid plan is very affordable for most individual instructors or small businesses.
Pricing: LearnWorlds offers four pricing tiers:
– Free Plan – Allows 1 course for unlimited students
– Basic Plan – $39/month – Unlimited courses and students
– Professional Plan – $79/month – Advanced analytics and support
– Enterprise Plan – Custom priced – For large organizations
Some key stats about LearnWorlds include:
– Over 500,000 users globally
– Hosts over 40,000 online courses
– Supported formats include SCORM and HTML5
– Integrates with platforms like WordPress, Moodle and Canvas
6. Docebo
Docebo is a learning management system (LMS) and learning content management system (LCMS) developed by Docebo. Founded in 2005, Docebo is headquartered in Toronto, Canada and provides a cloud-based eLearning platform to help companies design, deliver, and track training programs.
Pros: Some key advantages of Docebo include:
– Offers an LMS, LCMS and compliance software capabilities all in one platform
– Provides excellent ROI due to features that support microlearning
– Allows for personalized learner experiences through adaptive learning paths
– Highly intuitive and scalable platform that can support organizations of all sizes
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the platform may have a slightly higher learning curve for administrators compared to some other LMSs due to its depth of features.
Pricing: Docebo offers various pricing plans including:
– Essentials: Starting at $99/month
– Plus: Starting at $149/month
– Pro: Starting at $249/month
– Enterprise: Custom pricing
All plans are offered on an annual subscription basis with volume-based discounts available.
Some key stats about Docebo include:
– Used by over 2,000 customers worldwide across various industries
– Supports 35+ languages
– Hosts over 1 billion learning objects
– Has a 4.8/5 star rating on G2
– Named a leader in the 2019 and 2022 Gartner Magic Quadrant for LMS
7. LearnUpon
LearnUpon is a learning management system (LMS) designed to provide engaging training experiences that impact performance, retention, and growth. Founded in 2011, LearnUpon helps over 500 customers across industries deliver impactful on-demand and instructor-led training to their employees and customers.
Pros: Some key advantages of LearnUpon include:
– Comprehensive but easy to use all-in-one solution for training management, content authoring, assessments and analytics
– Robust catalog of over 5000 off-the-shelf professional microlearning courses for various industries and topics
– Integrations for single sign-on and to connect with other important workplace systems like HRIS, CRM for automated workflows
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the platform may have more features than needed for some smaller businesses or teams with less complex training needs. This could add to the licensing costs.
Pricing: LearnUpon offers flexible pricing plans starting from $49 per user per month for the Basic plan up to custom enterprise plans. Discounts are available for annual subscriptions and non-profits.
Some key stats about LearnUpon include:
– Over 500 customers worldwide across various industries
– Average catalog size of 5000+ course titles
– Integrations with over 50+ APIs including SSO, HRIS, CRM systems
– Average training completion rates of over 80%
8. EdApp
EdApp is a leading provider of mobile learning management systems (LMS) for enterprises. Founded in 2012, EdApp helps companies enhance their corporate and retail training through an engaging mobile-first experience. The EdApp LMS was designed from the ground up to be intuitive and easily accessible through any mobile device.
Pros: Key advantages of the EdApp LMS include:
– Smooth mobile-first learning experiences that work seamlessly across Android and iOS devices
– Engaging formative assessments and quizzes to test comprehension
– Expertise in regulated industries like financial services with compliance tools and workflows
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the mobile-focused design may not be as robust for more complex eLearning solutions that require extensive multimedia or simulations. However, EdApp excels for delivering compliance training, microlearning, and knowledge testing on any device.
Pricing: EdApp offers flexible subscription plans starting at $5 per user per month for basic features up to $15 per user per month for advanced admin controls and custom branding. They also offer free trials and custom quotes for large enterprise customers.
Some key stats about EdApp include:
– Over 500 customers worldwide including Fortune 500 companies
– Delivers over 100 million lessons annually
– Achieves an average course completion rate of 80%
9. Litmos
Litmos is a cloud-based learning management system (LMS) that allows organizations to deliver training anytime, anywhere. Founded in 2007, Litmos provides a comprehensive platform to create, deliver, track and report on all types of online and offline training.
Pros: Some key advantages of Litmos include:
– Comprehensive data analytics for strategic insights into training effectiveness and impact.
– Mobile-optimized for learners to access training on any device.
– Highly customizable workflows and processes to fit unique business needs.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the more advanced customization options require additional technical support and consulting fees.
Pricing: Litmos offers flexible pricing plans starting from their Lite plan for $49/month per administrator up to their Enterprise plan customized for large organizations with over 1000 users.
Some key stats about Litmos include: used by over 2500 clients globally, delivered over 1 billion courses to 100 million learners, 99% customer retention rate.
10. Inkling
Inkling is a leading training management system known for its powerful yet easy-to-use functionality. Founded in 2009, Inkling provides frontline employee training focused on engaging learning experiences for any device. Its digital learning platform helps businesses create, deliver, and track training to empower and develop their workforce.
Pros: Key advantages of Inkling include:
– Strong focus on creating learning content through intuitive visual editors and templates
– Flexible platform that allows customizing the look and branding of learning experiences
– Engages learners through diverse formats like microlearning, videos, quizzes and simulations available on any device
Cons: Potential disadvantages could include:
– No offline accessibility for learning content
– Basic admin reporting and analytics compared to some competitors
– Premium pricing for advanced customizations and large volume of users
Pricing: Inkling offers different pricing plans depending on needs. Basic plans start at $49/user per month and premium enterprise plans with additional features are customized based on team size and requirements.
Some key stats about Inkling include:
– Used by over 400 enterprise customers including Starbucks, Best Buy, and Anthropic
– Delivers over 100 million learning sessions annually
– Features a robust content authoring tool and library of over 50 interactive course templates
11. eFront
eFront is a cloud-based learning management system (LMS) that helps companies manage all aspects of employee and extended enterprise training on a single platform. Founded in 1999, eFront offers a fully-featured LMS solution with capabilities for customizing workflows, tracking learning progress, and delivering engaging online training experiences.
Pros: Some key advantages of the eFront LMS include:
– Holistic talent management platform that spans learning, performance and competency management
– Unified employee profile that provides a single view of skills, certifications and development across all apps
– Highly customizable dashboards and workflows that can be tailored to each organization’s unique needs
– AI-powered personalization capabilities that recommend relevant learning based on an individual’s role, skills and past training
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the platform requires dedicated resource and time to fully customize the system, workflows and integrations to an organization’s specific requirements. However, eFront provides implementation services and responsive support to help clients through this process.
Pricing: eFront offers flexible pricing plans including yearly subscriptions. Pricing is based on the number of users, additional modules/integrations and required support/customization. A free 30-day trial is available to test the full platform capabilities before committing.
Some key stats about eFront include:
– Used by over 1,000 companies worldwide in industries like manufacturing, financial services, healthcare and more
– Supports over 20 million users
– Available in over 40 languages
– Offers mobile apps for on-the-go learning
12. Modern Campus
Modern Campus provides leading higher education management software designed specifically for colleges, universities and libraries. With over 20 years of experience working exclusively with academic institutions, Modern Campus understands the unique needs of these organizations and offers a platform customized to meet their requirements.
Pros: Some key advantages of Modern Campus include:
– Strong focus and deep experience serving only academic institutions and libraries
– Flexible collaboration tools and customizable content flows to meet each school’s unique needs
– Advanced analytics and AI capabilities through their proprietary data and machine learning platform
Cons: As with any platform, integration with existing school systems can sometimes require additional effort. Modern Campus works closely with customers on integrations but full migrations may take time.
Pricing: Modern Campus offers flexible pricing plans tailored to each institution’s needs and budget. Pricing is typically based on student enrollment levels but they also offer discounts for multi-year commitments and bundled service packages for additional support.
Some key stats about Modern Campus include:
– Over 450 institutions globally use their platform
– Over 3.5 million students and faculty are supported on their system
– They have been named a ‘Leader’ in educational experience platforms by prominent analyst firms
13. Go1
Go1 is an online learning platform that offers a comprehensive learning management system (LMS) as well as a library of high-quality online courses. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Perth, Australia, Go1 serves thousands of organisations across 150+ countries.Their mission is to help professionals and enterprises keep their skills and knowledge up to date through continuous learning experiences.
Pros: Some key advantages of Go1 include:
– Modern interface for an enjoyable learner experience
– Powerful enterprise features and scalability to support complex global organizations
– Integrations with various HRIS, IT and finance systems to support complex M&A environments
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the interface may not be as intuitive for some users compared to more consumer-focused LMS platforms.
Pricing: Go1 offers flexible pricing plans tailored for organizations of all sizes. Pricing is based on the number of users, with discounts available for annual plans. Contact Go1 for an customized quote.
Some key stats about Go1 include:
– Over 700 enterprise customers globally
– Hosts over 65,000 online courses
– Supports over 50 languages
– Manages learning and development for over 5 million users
14. Lessonly
Lessonly, now known as Seismic Learning, is an all-in-one training management system that allows organizations to centrally manage their learning programs. With Lessonly, admins can create and deliver engaging learning content to employees, track completion stats, and report on learning metrics.
Pros: Some key advantages of Lessonly include:
– Simple to set up and use for both admins and learners
– Variety of engaging content creation tools
– Good support for compliance and certification
– Robust reporting and analytics on course completion and learning metrics
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free version only supports one admin and up to 50 learners. For larger teams, a paid subscription is required.
Pricing: Lessonly offers a free forever plan for up to one admin and 50 learners. Paid plans start at $29 per admin per month for the Standard plan and increase based on number of admins and learners.
Some key stats about Lessonly include:
– Used by over 1,000 companies worldwide
– Over 10M lessons completed annually on the platform
– Customers in a wide range of industries including healthcare, retail, ecommerce and more
15. Axonify
Axonify is an adaptive microlearning and performance support platform that helps frontline employees learn, connect and get things done. Founded in 2012, Axonify uses adaptive microlearning and performance support to boost frontline employee performance and engagement. The platform delivers training to employees via their mobile devices with short, relevant lessons and knowledge nuggets that adapt based on individual needs and performance.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of Axonify include:
– Adaptive and gamified microlearning approach keeps training short and relevant
– Strong analytics and insights that organizations can use to measure impact and shape strategic initiatives
– Mobile-first design optimized for on-the-go frontline workers with limited time for training
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that Axonify focuses exclusively on microlearning and may not be suitable for all types of training needs, especially those requiring longer form eLearning.
Pricing: Axonify offers flexible pricing plans depending on the organization’s needs. Pricing is usually based on the number of users and can be monthly or annual subscriptions. Custom quotes are available by contacting the Axonify sales team.
Some key stats about Axonify include:
– Over 500 enterprise customers globally including big brands like Marriott, Wendy’s, and Canada Post
– Delivered over 800 million learning sessions to over 3 million users
– Consistently recognized as a leader in the microlearning space by research firms like Fosway and Brandon Hall
Conclusion
Whether you need an all-in-one talent management system or a more specialized solution, this guide highlights some of the leading LMS platforms to empower learning for employees, students or other audiences. Do thorough due diligence on the top few contenders based on your unique requirements to identify the best training management system to take your learning initiatives to new heights in 2023 and beyond.