LMS vs LXP vs LCMS: Which Learning Solution Should You Choose?

Comparing E-Learning Solutions for Your Organization

Do you ever feel like it’s hard to keep track of all the acronyms in the online learning space? Which product does what and how are they different? And, more importantly, which e-learning solution is right for my business?

You’re not alone when asking yourself these questions.

When it comes to choosing a learning platform, there are many things to consider to help you select the right solution for your needs. But with so many options to choose from, how can you make an educated decision that sets you and your learners up for success?

This blog will explain three different learning technologies on the market. We’ll break down their advantages and disadvantages. Now, you can be sure you’re choosing a digital learning platform that will meet the needs of your modern learners. Plus, with the right tool, you can take your existing learning program to the next level.

What is a Learning Management System (LMS)?

LMS stands for learning management system. A learning management system is a software that allows you to administer, document, track, report on, and deliver e-learning materials.

There’s a good chance you might have come across an LMS because a staggering 82% of organizations use them. 

LMS software houses and manages eLearning assets. Either in-house or third-party designers create online courses to deliver through an LMS. The software primarily allows organizations to, like the name suggests, “manage” their learners. It can divide learners into groups and send them the appropriate training. Then, the software tracks learners’ progress and course completion rates. LMS software also allows you to manage your course catalog and overall internal knowledge base. 

Top reasons organizations need an LMS: 

• Schedule instructor-led or blended training.
• Create cohorts and track learners.  
• Track learning for compliance reasons or professional progression.
• Create a repository of institutional knowledge.
  
  

What is a Learning Content Management System (LCMS)?

An LMS focuses on managing learning, rather than creating eLearning. But organizations need to be able to update and create content to remain agile. 

Enter Learning Content Management Systems. LCMS systems help eLearning professionals create, store, and organize online training materials. An LCMS authors, delivers, publishes and analyzes content in a multi-user environment. Plus, they can create content off or online. L&D departments can use them with an LMS or as a standalone solution.  

Top reasons organizations use an LCMS: 

1. Reduce costs by using only one tool for online training.
2. Collaborative capabilities and standardized workflows make them efficient. 
3. Output multiple training formats like pdfs, videos or presentation slides.
4. Easily repurpose content with templates and other features.
5. Easy-to-use design tools allow SMEs to design courses.  

What is a Learning Experience Platform (LXP or LEP)?

Unlike the other two systems, a Learning Experience Platform focuses on the problem of “discovery.” How do people find the training they need or want? A LEP or LXP gives learners the content they need at the time they need it.

An LXP aggregates content and recommends it to users based on algorithms. They’re designed to be learner-centric with a focus on search navigation and content curation. Currently, many organizations supplement their LMS with an LXP.

Top reasons organizations use an LXP: 

1. Deliver content driven by learner interests from multiple sources (internet, massive open online courses, user-generated content, internal resources, third-party training). 
2. Use AI content recommendations mapped onto career competencies or pathways. 
3. Log into curated channels or playlists for content matching their interests or job roles. 
4. Track informal learning. 

Where does BenchPrep fit in?

Our platform takes the best parts from all of these systems to create an all-encompassing learning experience great for learners and designers alike. BenchPrep can track and manage learners like an LMS, but it can also author content like an LCMS. Finally, we meet the needs of the modern learner with personalized learning plans similarly to an LXP.

Top reasons organizations use BenchPrep:

1. A great ROI by buying one software to design and deliver learning. 
2. Learner-centric platform designed with a focus on the user experience with baked-in gamification, microlearning and confidence-based features. 
3. White label branding provides a cohesive user-experience.
4. An in-house Learning Design and Strategy team to help you implement best practices in eLearning instructional design.
5. The platform supports both B2C and B2B business models, including monetization with eCommerce. 
6. BenchPrep knows that organizations often spend a year or more choosing and implementing an LMS. With COVID-19, the world has moved training remote quickly. What happens if you don’t have a robust, training program already in place? 

BenchPrep created our Quick Start Program to help organizations get up and running in no time. It offers the three most important things you need to take your online learning program from zero to sixty: 

1. Quick launch (4-8 weeks)
2. Learner-centric platform
3. Easy contract terms

Learn how BenchPrep’s Quick Start Program can help you take your learning program to the next level.