Benefits of Using a Cloud-Based LMS System

Today, a cloud-based LMS for Customer Education is more accessible and capable than ever. Upgrades and advanced features for customer onboarding, course creation, and certification make this an ideal time to consider or revisit your options for a cloud-based LMS. All your learners need is an internet connection and a device, such as a desktop computer, tablet, or smartphone, to find a complete, streamlined training experience.

What is a cloud-based LMS?

Like any other cloud-based service or application, a cloud-based LMS resides on remote servers, not your on-premise hardware. The solution provider handles all the back-end technology and integrations that power your LMS platform so you can focus on your learners and the eLearning customizations that will best serve their needs.

Differences between a cloud-based LMS and a hosted LMS

Simply put, a cloud-based LMS is stored and managed on the provider’s servers, and accessed through a web browser or other interface. It requires less time and resources to manage than a hosted LMS, which is installed and runs on your own company’s hardware and is managed by your IT team.

A cloud-based LMS gets upgrades automatically from the solution provider, and the hosted version relies on your IT team to maintain and implement upgrades.

What are the benefits of a cloud LMS?

Streamline and optimize training processes with a cloud-based LMS platform. The best training programs are user-friendly for both the learning and development team and your end users. Here are some of the key reasons why organizations choose a cloud LMS over a self-hosted option:

Scalability

Cloud-based learning management systems offer the flexibility to grow your storage capacity as your user base grows. Rather than be limited in the amount of data you can store with a self-hosted system, cloud LMSs are designed to accommodate the needs of growing enterprises.

Remote learning capabilities

When eLearning platforms are cloud-based, your learners can access the online training from anywhere via a desktop or mobile app, rather than attend an in-person session. This is especially important for customer training in a post-pandemic environment when much of the workforce is virtual.

Learners can enroll in a course and take it at a time that fits their schedule. The LMS will track their progress, so they can return to where they left off at a later date. The system can also automate emails to gently nudge them to complete their course, learning path, or certification.

Cost savings

Generally speaking, cloud-based learning solutions are more cost-effective than hosting on local servers. Pricing will vary based on provider, configuration, functionality, and the number of users. Still, each provider can explain their pricing model so you can choose which one suits your company’s needs best. The key cost savings come from tapping into features that are pre-built and integrated into the LMS rather than enlisting a team or third-party vendor to build these solutions from the ground up.

Maintenance, upgrades, and security

Cloud-based LMS solutions can be automatically updated via cloud technology so your learning experiences improve. Your admins and learners can benefit from new functionality, software integrations, and more. Most importantly, the best cloud LMSs come with the highest security protocols to protect your valuable customer data.

Streamlined learning content creation

Your learning platform is going to evolve. For the best results, choose an LMS that includes course authoring tools, enrollment management, learning paths, reporting options, and social sharing options.. These tools will give your learning and development or customer success team a leg-up when justifying the value of a cloud LMS.

When different teams create and update content in a self-hosted system, all learners rarely access the same materials simultaneously. A cloud-based LMS takes the worry out of maintaining different content streams for various purposes within a company.

Should my business switch to a cloud-based LMS?

Before you make any changes to your current product training and education solution, look at how it’s being used, what your customers need, and what is required of your team to provide that solution. Then, if you’re currently hosting your LMS locally, consider the benefits of self-service options, reporting features, and course authoring tools to streamline your training and increase user engagement.

Skilljar offers a scalable solution for customer training

If you’re considering moving from a self-hosted learning platform to a cloud-based LMS, Skilljar has the best-in-class features you need to justify your investment and scale as your business grows. Reap the rewards in faster customer time to value, increased product adoption, and more engaged and satisfied customers. Get a demo today!

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