Self-Hosted Cloud-Based mostly LMS: three Execs And Cons
Why You Should Consider Investing In A Self-Hosted Cloud-Based LMS: 3 Pros And Cons
Typically, self-hosted LMS and cloud-based LMS are competing products with polar systems. But just as VPS offers the benefits of self-hosting and shared hosting options, self-hosted cloud systems are hybrid. You benefit from the cost-benefit ratio and the redundancy of the cloud. (Many are free, open source systems.) You also get the autonomy and security that come from self-hosted solutions. What are some other (sub) advantages of this mixed software approach?
The pros and cons of self-hosted learning management systems
Pro: Full administrative control
Cloud-based systems are usually managed by your provider. They come in a can so you can pay for your subscription, sign up, and let your software provider do the maintenance and backups. On your end, it’s essentially a WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) ad. You click icons and press buttons; Your learning system does what you need. They are not particularly interested in the “how”. The downside is that your provider has insider access to your systems. Of course, they would never break your systems, but it can upset the mind of your C-suite. With self-hosted systems, you have full control over every aspect of the LMS. There are no external eyes or fingers looking inside.
Disadvantage: No external help if something goes wrong
The same aspect can work against you at times. If your system fails, your data disappears, or a power surge occurs, you are on your own. You cannot call technical support or customer care for help because they do not have access to your systems. However, the first time you use your self-hosted cloud, you can set common parameters. If you want them to blindly back up data (without displaying it) then you only have a backup. This can be lifesaving if your primary, self-hosted systems crash. Find out what services your provider can offer.
Pros: Broader customization options
The biggest barrier for cloud-based systems is the leeway. Your pre-built software comes with preset templates. You won’t be able to do much outside of that. A self-hosted LMS – whether it is cloud-based or not – will offer wider options and more flexibility. You can request and integrate certain tools and functions from your provider. Or you can obtain compatible plug-ins and add them to your system. Since you are in full control, nothing prevents you from adding (or taking out) what you want. Cloud systems are also known for their ease of use. Since your LMS is partially cloud-based, it has a faster learning curve than manually installed server systems.
Cons: In-depth IT knowledge is required
The downside of all this freedom is implementation. Canned software vendors have their own IT teams that do all of the coding. However, since you are hosting on your own, changes that you need require technical expertise. You need to redirect some members of your current IT team and redirect their skills to the LMS. If that level of programming talent is not available in-house, you may need to hire new staff. This is an extra effort and you have to take into account your learning curve and settling-in time. All of this costs time and money that you hadn’t planned on. You also need to consider how your corporate learners will adapt to the new system.
Pro: Improved data security
Cloud systems are designed with security in mind, but companies still worry that “outsiders” are rummaging through their things. But the nature of the cloud – especially for commercial purposes – makes for superior encryption. This is a priority as cloud-based systems can be accessed from anywhere, anytime, which means that they are more attractive to hackers. When you host it yourself, you have the best of both entities. Standard cloud security is fed into your system, but you still have enough autonomy to require knowledge-based access. Nobody at your provider’s head office has access to your files unless you specifically make them available. At the same time, you can use cloud security functions. These functions are not available to companies with their own physical servers.
Disadvantage: Stable web connections are required
Everything that is in the cloud requires strong web access and some kind of login system. Since your self-hosted cloud is a hybrid system, the login options for employees outside the main office may be limited. If you don’t have WiFi or a reliable LAN connection, you will be locked out of the system immediately. This is inconvenient if your company uses Extended Enterprise as its core business model. It can also make life difficult for remote workers and mobile teams like salespeople or delivery drivers. Also, because part of the system is “manual” (ie the self-hosted part) it is not entirely plug-and-play. Implementation takes longer than the standard “login and start” pre-programmed by software. However, you can get around this by looking for an LMS that offers offline, mobile, or downloadable content.
graduation
Just like cloud systems, self-hosted systems have numerous advantages. When you put them in a self-hosted web-based LMS, you get the best and the worst of both worlds. Benefits include autonomy, administrative control, greater customization, and increased corporate confidentiality. Disadvantages are the need for increased IT skills and a stable internet. In addition, if something goes wrong with the system, you’re basically flying alone. There is no technical support to call for help. Unless you are using a system with an active online user community that you can contact for troubleshooting. Before taking this step, carefully analyze both sides of the equation to invest wisely.
Which self-hosted cloud-based solution is best for your L&D team (and your bottom line)? Our online directory can help you choose the ideal platform for your business and budget. Read online reviews to see what users are saying about UX and CX. Then compare your top 3 choices side by side to cross options off your list:
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