LMS (learning management system): Everything You Need to Know

LMS Integration or Learning Management System Integration is the compatibility of an LMS with business applications that an organization is currently using. Through an LMS Integration, one can transfer data between systems such that certain tasks can be automated and create an integrated report regarding the undergoing tasks.  

Any organization uses several software applications and systems. The primary function of these applications is to capture and store data, manage various performances, and automate the decision-making process. A well-equipped Learning Management System can integrate with various vital apps that are used by the organization through which data management and information management can be implemented. 

Importance of learning management system (LMS)

Before understanding the concept of LMS Integration, one should understand the importance of a learning management system. It is a software application and web-based technology used to assess a learning process. 

An LMS consists of two primary elements, 

• The first is a server through which the basic functions can be performed. 
• The second is the user interface that is aimed to be operated by students, administrators, and instructors. 

Learning Management Systems are consistently used by various businesses, local and national government agencies, educational institutions, and online learning institutions. These are equipped to enhance the traditional and conventional educational methods through which the time and money spent on an aim can be used more efficiently. 

Through an effective LMS, one can utilize, manage and implement various elements such as content, communication, registration, user access, certifications, etc. 

What are the Functional Integration Components of an LMS?

Before one considers integrating a full-fledged LMS integration, one should have the following components integrated with your organization. 

• Content

The first point that should be considered is the content that the organization produces. The platform where the content will be hosted, whether the LMS will directly manage the content, or if it will be integrated with external resources, etc., are some of the aspects that should be confirmed. 

• Users 

Along with the content that is being managed with the LMS, one should also determine how the users will access the learning management system. Whether the users can self-register themselves, or they will need to be invited, will they need to pay for training, what is the expected workflow of the training, etc., are the factors to be determined to ensure a well-managed user experience. 

• Data

The path of the data that will be accessed by the Learning Management System needs to be defined. The data includes the registration data, course data, certifications, financial data, etc. 

What is the Need for an LMS Integration?

The software and applications used by organizations contain extensive data that can be integrated with the training software to better understand the customers, team, and partners. Through LMS Integration, one can make better operational decisions and identify what is lacking in training. Through the data provided by the learning management system, the organization can create a personalized learning path unique to everyone. 

Here are the most prominent reasons why organizations should consider scaling their corporate with LMS integration. 

• Decrease Redundant Data 

One does not need to manually input the data into each system to integrate an efficient LMS. Once the system is added to the apps used by the organization, one needs to key in the data. The learning management system will automatically input and maintain the data of each system. This can increase consistency in the management of information. 

• Customized Training Experience 

Through sharing of information between the systems and applications, an overview of an individual's performance is received. With the information gained from the overview, one can create a personalized training plan that addresses the gaps in the training of the learner and their individual requirements. 

• Comprehensive Reports 

By integrating the LMS system with the organization's systems, the data regarding the training and the consecutive reports generated can be synchronized across all systems. Thus, one can get a complete overview and information regarding the training experience of an individual. The information can enhance the reports created to record and track performance outcomes. 

• Automate Administrative Tasks 

One can enable automation of administrative tasks and platform management that require time and resources when handled manually. The integration of LMS with the software applications can automate various processes, including user enrollment, adding users to email lists, tracking quiz results, etc.    

Types of Learning System Integrations

The following two are the most used forms of learning management system integration. 

• SCORM

Also known as the Sharable Content Object Reference Model, it is the standard form of integration that is used for eLearning training. The Model ensures that the packages are communicating with all the components of the LMS environments. 

• SAML

Abbreviated form of Security Assertion Markup Language, this form of LMS integration is used to share information about the users, such as their login credentials, between the service provider and identity provider. It can be done by triggering the URL created by the provider or when the learner clicks on the link for a specific internal website. 

• Single Sign-On (SSO)

The method of Single Sign-On provides the ability for the users to log in to one application using their credentials registered on another application. The application from where the login credentials are derived is called the identity provider, and the application that derives the login information is referred to as service provider. 

• Application Programming Interface (API) Integration 

The connection between two or more technical systems is termed as Application Programming Interface (API). Using API, two software systems can share data and information with each other. REST API is the newer version with easier integration. However, a lot of employed software systems still use SOAP API. 

• Customer Relationship Management or CRM

Through CRM, one can track and record the user experience. It organized the data that is obtained throughout the process of educating the employees. Through the CRM system, sales reporting solutions, forecast sales, contact data organization, etc., can be managed. 

• Content Management System or CMS

The existing content in the LMS can be managed and organized through CMS. Through tools such as Joomla, WordPress, etc., one can centralize the existing data to ensure that everything is compatible. 

• eCommerce Integration 

When planning to sell the training content online, this LMS integration can help. It provides conversion and sales reports along with streamlining the payment procedure. 

• Collaboration tools 

This LMS integration is used to ease the communication between people using tools such as mind mapping that encourage collaboration and discussions. 

• Video conferencing 

Online video training is the most effective way to indulge people in the training program. Through web conferencing software, one can organize live events throughout the training. 

• Social media integration

Through social media LMS integration, one can add tools such as peer feedback, online training resource sharing, discussion forums, etc. 

For the learning and development of all the employees of the company, a multitude of organizations are now employing digital learning. Through LMS integration, the process of learning can be made easier for learners and administrators. Through APIs, one can easily integrate the LMS with other back-end systems, including the Human Resource Management Systems and various websites and applications.