Why a next-generation learning management system is essential

Why a next-generation learning management system is essential 

As a training provider, it’s crucial to make sure that you’re keeping pace with industry developments and delivering against learners’ expectations. Your learning management system (LMS) is central to doing so.

What is a learning management system?

A learning management system, also known as a virtual learning environment (VLE), is a digital platform that helps training providers, learners, and employers engage with the learning process effectively. 

The best learning management systems are ones that support the entire learning journey, from enrolment through to end-point assessment. The system should be user-friendly, intuitive and based on processes which make administration simpler.

Digital capabilities have also advanced rapidly in recent years, creating more opportunities to streamline apprenticeship management and optimise learning. The top systems are now using technology like AI to speed up tasks for trainers and support better learning outcomes.

What are the benefits of a learning management system?

A good learning management system is the backbone of effective training delivery. 

The main benefit for learners is that it provides a central location for everything they need to access during their time with a provider, including learning materials, assessments, important updates and more. It makes it easy to communicate with trainers and track progress, which can keep learners engaged and motivated throughout the programme.

For employers working with apprenticeship providers, a next-generation LMS can provide real-time data and insights on their apprentices’ progress. It also reduces the amount of physical documentation they need to complete.

For education and training providers, an effective system will help to deliver consistently high-quality training. It can lighten the administrative burden by automating time-consuming tasks, so there’s more time to spend on higher value learner support. Workflows that are set up to drive compliance can also ease concerns about funding claims and provide peace of mind when it’s time for an Ofsted inspection.

How to choose a learning management system?

Providers looking to implement or upgrade an LMS have two broad options: an off-the-shelf solution or a costly custom-built application. Given the ongoing funding squeeze, most providers are looking for pre-built solutions – so here’s how to choose the right one for your organisation.

Advanced data analytics

Your LMS should offer enhanced data collection and reporting capabilities. This will enable you to access critical insights into how your learners and programmes are performing, both at a glance and through in-depth reports with actionable recommendations.

AI-powered features

Artificial intelligence has the potential to transform training delivery. It can create personalised curriculums for individual learners based on their ability and progress, for better engagement and improved subject understanding.

The LMS you choose should also be looking to build in AI coaching, to support learners with areas of teaching they may be struggling to understand, or during assessments. AI coaches can also serve recommendations to stretch and challenge those with untapped potential. 

The next generation of learning management systems will embed AI in other areas, too. Features such as AI-assisted marking enable tutors to automate the more basic aspects of the marking process, leaving time and headspace free to focus on more complex tasks and personalised feedback.

Mobile-first design

Mobile-first design ensures your platform is responsive and accessible if learners are viewing it on a smaller screen. One of the biggest challenges with legacy LMS platforms is that mobile design tends to be an afterthought, meaning that it can be clunky and sluggish to access on other devices.

Using an LMS that’s designed for multiple devices takes this frustration away. Learners can easily log into the platform and view curriculum content on any device, at any time of day, leading to better engagement levels.

Seamless integration with other platforms

An ideal LMS should complement other digital tools or apps that learners and providers already use on a daily basis. For example, the ability to integrate with Microsoft Teams to speed up communication, or Microsoft Power BI to improve business intelligence.

Improved UX and UI

One of the biggest differences between a legacy platform and a next-generation learning management system is the standard of the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX). A great UI should be concise and logical; a great UX should make the learning feel enjoyable and valuable.

How Bud meets the needs of modern learners

Bud is a next-generation LMS that is designed for accessibility, so it’s simple and intuitive to use. Our features include:

• A smooth digital enrolment process, ensuring learners have an outstanding experience from the very first interaction and reducing the administrative workload for trainers

• Full visibility and control of learning, so your learners can track progress easily, access activities whenever they wish, and submit work at their preferred pace

• The ability for learners and trainers to easily message within the platform, so all communications, events and feedback are captured

• AI tools that support onboarding, skills development, assessment and more

To see more of what Bud can do, book a discovery call with our team.