Navigating the LMS Landscape: Lessons from Seven Purchasing Processes

Choosing the right learning solution can be overwhelming with so many options out there—whether it's an LMS, a Learning Experience (LX) platform, or a Digital Adoption Platform (DAP). As someone who has gone through seven LMS purchasing processes across multiple organizations, I've learned that success starts with asking the right questions and having a solid plan. Here’s what I’ve discovered along the way.

Understanding the Differences

• LMS (Learning Management Systems): Primarily focused on organizing, delivering, and tracking learning content. Such as Litmos
• LX (Learning Experience Platforms): Designed to enhance engagement by providing personalized learning paths and interactive content. Such as Udemy
• DAP (Digital Adoption Platforms): Offers in-application guidance and support for users to perform tasks efficiently. Such as Pendo.io

The first question often overlooked is: "What do your learners need the most?" Sometimes the answer is an LMS, other times an LX platform, or a combination of solutions. Before engaging with any vendor, it's crucial to create a Learning Success Journey Map.

Start with a Learning Success Journey Map

A Learning Success Journey Map helps you evaluate different learner personas, map out learning objectives, and assess the needs of various groups within your organization. This exercise ensures that you’re considering the big picture, not just catering to the loudest voices.

Example Journey Map Steps:

1. Define your learner personas: Who are you trying to support? New hires? Managers? Customers?
2. Identify needs: Are there compliance requirements, certifications, or specific technical skills that are critical? What's In It For Me (WIIFM)?
3. Map learning paths: What milestones and objectives will guide learners along the way?
4. Evaluate platforms: Decide whether an LMS, LX platform, DAP, or a combination would best address your organization's needs.

If you'd like a template to get started, reach out or comment on this article.

Case Study: Building Customer Education from the Ground Up

At a previous organization, we had to start our customer education efforts from scratch. We began with a DAP, which reached over 100,000 users in-app and resulted in a 75.2% success rate for those who completed the guides. From there, we integrated a SaaS LMS ( Gainsight Customer Education LMS), offering micro-learning videos with a 100% completion rate in the pilot program. We then expanded the initiative to include a paid certification program, showing how the approach evolved to meet growing needs.

Recommendations for Leaders

• Conduct a gap analysis: Consult with key stakeholders to identify current training gaps.
• Consider different solutions: Don’t limit yourself to one type of platform—sometimes a combination (LMS, LX, DAP, external training) provides the most comprehensive approach.
• Budget smartly: Be mindful of long-term needs and whether external training is necessary. When identifying stakeholders, keep in mind the "hidden" cost of including too many!
• Iterate based on feedback: Use learner data to continuously refine your approach.

Conclusion Understanding your learners' needs and mapping out a comprehensive learning journey is key to choosing the right learning solutions. If you're navigating similar challenges or want to discuss your organization’s unique requirements, feel free to connect. I’m always open to conversations about building scalable learning strategies.