With the increased need for flexible learning experiences, so many questions arise as to how organizations can build out a learning ecosystem. You might be asking: How do I engage learners? How can I track completion? What platform is right for me?
In the last few years, there has been an uptick in tools and technologies on the market that support learning and development. While the opportunities may be exciting, it can be daunting to narrow down your options. Below are a set of questions you may want to think through before implementing a new tool.
What is a learning ecosystem?
A learning ecosystem looks different to different organizations but in general is comprised of key technologies and tools used to deliver learning. Most common is a learning management system (LMS) that handles course delivery and engagement. However, LMSs can be limited in how they allow learners to access content and customize their learning experiences.
Enter the learning experience platform (LXP). An LXP provides an overall better learning experience for learners by allowing them to create their own learning paths. An organization can structure the learning experience to suit its learners or allow for more open-ended learning.
A learning record store (LRS) can also come into play when there is an essential need for tracking user data. Another possible tool in a learning ecosystem is a human resource information system (HRIS), such as Workday, which is used to push and pull user data in and out. Every ecosystem looks different, which is the beauty of it: You can build your ecosystem to match what makes sense for your learners.
LMS vs. LXP – Do I need both?
Generally speaking, yes. The LMS will contain all your learning materials, while your LXP can guide your learners on the right learning path. An LMS can offer very robust training, while the LXP can bring in a variety of learning opportunities that may live outside the traditional LMS.
That said, both systems can pull in learning opportunities that might be unique to your organization, and the really smart ones also account for live, in-person trainings.
Why can’t I just use a web conferencing tool and do a live training?
For many people new to the world of learning and development, it’s a rather common assumption that training can just be conducted via a web conferencing tool like Zoom. Why? Because it’s easy and we’re familiar with it. Now that more and more employees are working from home, we’re all comfortable with some sort of web conferencing tool.
However, web conferencing tools can be limiting in user experience and don’t always track the data we need. Learners need flexibility with their learning and typically prefer different modalities in order to take more ownership of their experience. Allowing more options, like self-paced learning, may increase your engagement numbers.
Don’t forget: “Zoom fatigue” is real, so let’s keep it to a minimum.
Where do I start?
- Gather your requirements: A key element of implementing a strong learning ecosystem is to first determine what your business requirements are. It’s tricky sometimes to narrow those down, but one way to think about it would be to ask yourself: where were you before, where are you now, and where do you want to be? These three questions may help identify what’s needed for your organization. Answering these questions may also require you to ask different groups of people, such as leadership and potential learners, what their thoughts are.
- Do your research: There are so many tools out there, and the market is constantly changing. It’s important to know where to look and how to narrow down your search. Many companies offer free trials for a set amount of time, and the good ones offer a “freemium” option where you can use a limited version indefinitely. And don’t forget, many companies offer a live demonstration where you can get real-time answers to your questions.
- Just do it: You could spend a lifetime gathering your business requirements and doing research, but the key to getting the ecosystem you need is to make your decision and more forward. Bring in a project manager who can coordinate the details, partner with vendors, and keep the process moving. Set a deadline for yourself (even if it changes) for when your learning ecosystem needs to be implemented so that you keep the team accountable and your learners learning.
In case you’re feeling overwhelmed and need some extra help, the ansrsource team is here to come to your rescue! Reach out to us today to start building your very own learning ecosystem.
