How To Consider LMS Consumer Expertise
Tips for evaluating the LMS user experience before purchasing new software
How many times have you made a purchase only to regret it a moment later? Or maybe in the week after that when you find the product isn’t what it should be. Perhaps the seller oversold his benefits. Or, you’re not using most of the features you paid for because of the lack of UX. While some things cannot be avoided, there are others that you can spot early on. Even before you start the research process and sign on the dashed line. This is particularly important for learning management systems. They are a significant investment and the wrong system can have a devastating effect on your bottom line. How do you test the LMS user experience before you buy? Is there a way to choose a platform that fits your existing tools and team skills?
1. Use an online directory to identify the best LMS contenders
You probably already have some learning management systems on your radar. However, it’s always good to evaluate all of your options. So use an online directory to identify the best options based on your online training needs. Filter results by industry, pricing options, and other key criteria to make your search faster. You can also determine which vendors offer the features you need to get the best ROI. Make sure the directory is reliable and biased. They don’t want entries with acclaimed company biographies or testimonials that make promises they can’t keep.
2. Analyze ratings and reviews to evaluate the LMS user experience
A trustworthy online directory combines all important product information with ratings and reviews. That way, you can see which tool is worth the investment and has the best LMS user experience. Users should provide some basic background information or sign in with social media accounts. Otherwise, you may have to worry about sponsored or exaggerated reviews. Pay close attention to users with a similar use case or industry. They give you a good indication of how the system works in the real world and whether the user experience is top notch. Finally, rate the individual ratings behind the overall satisfaction value. The UX may be amazing, but the CX leaves a lot to be desired.
3. Test the platform
User reviews provide a general view of the tool’s UX, but not firsthand experience. This is evident from a free test drive. Many vendors offer free trials or demos that you can use to try out the tool before you buy it. You can assess the LMS UX in advance and see if it meets expectations. Or if you need to consider other products on the market. Is the user interface intuitive and easy to navigate? Are you able to upload content quickly or are there numerous technical obstacles?
4. Gather team feedback after the free trial
Attempts should not be made in a bubble. Get everyone involved so they can take test drives themselves and provide input. Mainly developers and administrators who use the tool on a daily basis to provide online training. The UX of the learning management system should be tailored to their skills, experience and workflow. Instead of making it difficult for them to generate reports or add new users. Host a final live event to get feedback and discuss the overall user experience. Were there any problems that hampered productivity? If so, can they be addressed quickly with integrations or add-ons?
5. Tap Social Media Networks
Do you already belong to eLearning social media groups or online forums? Ask for LMS recommendations and emphasize that you are looking for a superior UX. Members can share their previous experiences with platforms and what they liked / didn’t like about the tool. Follow up with additional questions based on their answers. The commenter mentioned, for example, that the LMS UX was missing due to the integrated authoring tool. Ask them why the authoring functions were difficult to master. Was the asset library disorganized? Did you have problems with the navigation controls or the design interface? Dig deeper to see if their issues are causing problems for your team. Or when it all boils down to their inexperience and / or their use case.
6. Contact the provider to test support services
Part of the UX equation is how vendors treat their customers. Contact them directly by email or submit a trouble ticket. You can also call them to test their support services for yourself. Start with something simple to see how they react. Can they quickly identify the problem and guide you through the resolution process? Or do they repel you with a simple “visit our FAQ” email? If in doubt, set up a meeting to speak to an employee in person, even if it is a video conference. Ask them about the user experience and what makes them different from the other LMS solutions. Again, they should be able to formulate their key UX sales arguments and explain why their product is right for your business.
The Learning Management System UX covers a variety of sales arguments that you need to consider. From user interface design to support services. A free trial gives you firsthand experience, while user reviews show how the tool works over a long period of time. You can also ask for recommendations on social media, but make sure they are from a trusted source. Finally, contact the provider to see how they react and if they know their way around.
Visit our exclusive LMS directory to read the latest reviews and evaluate the LMS user experience before making your final purchase decision.
VIVAHR
Simple, affordable hiring software Publish your jobs with one click on all free job posting pages + Culture Marketing ™ landing pages.
