LMS is one of the most popular tools when it comes to online training and learning. Due to its popularity, most educational institutions, corporate offices, and other businesses prefer using it. So, it undergoes changes and upgrades continuously. The upgrade can be anything from minor instances like design and style to major aspects like analytics and reporting. And if your LMS is not adapting to the change, you may end up switching to a new LMS. Therefore, always choose an LMS that is reliable in terms of adapting to new trends. Some of the most popular LMS are Litmos, Docebo, 360 learning, and others that are reliable.
Here in this article, we have put together some of the key components of the LMS Switching Process. When switching an LMS, one should understand and put these key components into practice. This will not only ensure a smooth transition but also guarantees a successful transition for the foreseeable future!
1. New LMS Specifications
Taking into account the current usage and more importantly, analyzing the issue, a document list should be created for the new LMS. Providing a list of the typical features that an LMS should possess is important. The document should also list the issues that result from addressing the issue. Sort the items according to their direct relation to the problem. This LMS should be able to make the best use of your new LMS.
2. Update IT policies
Changes in IT policies may have taken place since the last time your current LMS was implemented. You need to make sure the new LMS meets the same standards and can endure. Therefore, you should include the policies in the specification. Checking the policies will make sure you don’t get into any trouble and run your new LMS smoothly.
5. Data transfer process
This may be the most important component of switching LMSs. The key challenge is migrating the current system’s data to the new LMS. And importantly without any loss of information. The two platforms and processes can completely different. Thus, the switching process requires careful planning and detailed scoping. The following are some of the aspects to take into account:
- Content Transfer – This includes all learning materials as well as logical entities, such as academic curriculum, certifications, etc. Preparing and maintaining the content organization chart would be helpful before evaluating an LMS vendor. It describes how they interrelate and interact with each other. LMS evaluation processes need to prioritize this issue.
- Training Records – Index of all training sessions – either initiated, in progress, or completed by the user. Most organizations don’t want to lose this data. They need to make sure that these records are transferred to the new LMS. Data migration will be easier if organizations have this analysis and plan for the new LMS vendor. Also, they will be aware of any modifications they need to make to their LMS or database.
- User-Generated Content – In addition to training records and content, the current LMS may contain modules that facilitate communication among users. This may include community forums, discussion boards, questions to experts, interactions with departmental managers, instructors, etc. It is also necessary to migrate this information, and the migration plan should account for it.
6. Use Case Scenario Demonstrations
Demonstrations of case scenarios by top-tier LMS vendors would be a very important part of the process. It is important to demonstrate how the LMS can address the problem described and also the other requirements. Additionally, this will eliminate potential problems which arise if an LMS is only purchased based on a sales demo or a mere RFP checklist.
7. Adaptability Of The New LMS
The landscape of learning workflows and information technology related to learning management systems is rapidly changing. This makes it essential for you to purchase an LMS that fits your current needs. Along with that, your LMS should have a high degree of future-proofing. As an example, you might be looking for things such as compatibility with emerging technologies.
Conclusion
Keep in mind that the main thing is to always return to the original issue behind switching to a new LMS since that defines the reason why you switch to a new LMS.
With these points in mind, you can ensure that the new LMS you choose is not only going to address your current issues, but also will remain useful for years to come. By breaking down the LMS switching process into simple components, you can analyze your needs. So, consider the above points while switching to other LMS.
