The Era of e-learning Innovation: Saas Learning Management System
The learning and development industry has adapted proportionally to computer science and information technology advancement. That depends on the resilience of learning leaders, their passion for training, and the range of online tools and systems that enable them to execute their strategies. Thanks to its flexibility and adaptability, a learning management system, or LMS, stands out from the rest.
In the past, a hosted LMS was the only way to do business, but the future businesses have entered a new age – SaaS LMS has kept pace with the times brilliantly. In this day and age, we have mobile devices, and these devices have facial recognition, and self-driving cars are being introduced to the masses. In an age where we constantly rise and push the boundaries of technology, the cloud, or more specifically SaaS LMS, is just another part of that stormy evolution.
Let's find out what benefits SaaS brings to us!
What is a SaaS?
SaaS is used in several markets ranging from eCommerce, collaboration, applications, file sharing, and learning management systems. This leads us to the next question.
What is SaaS LMS? As you can imagine, SaaS LMS is a learning management system available in the cloud. Before the rise of cloud computing, the only option for companies was to buy eLearning software and install it on their servers. But with a SaaS learning platform, organizations don't need to invest a lot of money or human resources in the technical part of their training efforts.
It's a much more affordable option than an in-place solution. You also won't have to worry about upgrades or troubleshooting. Why? Don't forget that the second “S” in SaaS stands for “service”. Automatic upgrades and ongoing support are part of that service.
With a SaaS LMS, you have to pay a subscription to access the learning management software. Typically, software as a service allows you to scale a “package” or subscription level to meet the needs of your business, rather than paying for a license that may be more demanding. SaaS LMS providers often use a pricing model based on the actual product or service usage, so it is often seen as a more scalable investment depending on the size of the business and the complexity of the software.
This learning solution does not require you to install specific hardware or software to access and use it. You log into a web portal and access features and courses. This is a popular LMS option because not only is it an easy to install solution, but it is also low maintenance, secure, and configurable.
Why is SaaS LMS so popular?
The need for modern yet user-friendly development tools has challenged the traditional software vendors of the past. The standard from professional application developers is moving to do-it-yourself application development tools. These development kits are offered as SaaS. This is exactly the situation that has led companies to provide Learning Management Systems as a service.
In our case, Groove Technology built a learning management system equipped with easy-to-use features and a very short learning curve. This means that you don't need any programming experience to quickly create and launch an e-learning program. We essentially give you control of your learning management system.
Benefits of SaaS LMS
Claiming that a business owning a SaaS LMS clearly has an advantage is not an empty statement. But why exactly? You already know that it's a more flexible and extensible option, so let's explore more advantages.
1. Automatic upgrade
Continuous and easy data updates are the main reason why cloud-based SaaS LMSs are so popular. Since the maintenance is carried out by the vendor, you don't need to worry about system problems or downtime. The upgrade process is fast without interrupting processes, which is a significant time-saving advantage.
New or updated features are applied immediately to your learning system, meaning you can focus on building successful training programs and getting results.
2. Ability of extension
With a SaaS LMS, you can install add-ons or sign up for more users as you see fit. A SaaS LMS that evolves with your business needs. You can start small and add to the breadth of your LMS as you add staff. You can set up your corporate branches, departments, or groups as tenants to fit your expansive learning enterprise structure, using only a single database. If you no longer want the paid extras, you can downgrade to a cheaper plan at any time.
3. Predictable cost
This is one of the prominent advantages for LMS buyers. In most cases, it not only helps you to minimize the cost of the facility, but you also reduce the amount of time spent on aspects such as installation, troubleshooting, maintenance… Moreover, you will know how much you have to spend each month.
4. Quick Implementation
Most cloud-based LMSs will have a simple deployment process, with a dedicated Success and Support team like Groove Technology helping you through the process. Once you know your training goals, you can add your courses, enrol learners, and start training programs.
Remember, when comparing LMS vendors, you should question their average implementation progress. That way, you'll have a clear expectation of how prepared they will be to help you hit your all-important academic deadlines.
5. Easy to use
Your learners will be able to start and complete the training quickly. The portal allows you to create and manage unique training environments that cater to the specific training needs of groups of learners. Ease of use isn't just for learners. A great SaaS LMS eases the admin's workload through features like automation and reporting.
The learning curve for SaaS LMS is relatively low as they are designed specifically for the audience that wants to get it up and to sprint. A powerful SaaS LMS will also ensure:
- Easily track performance and track results by allowing you to run easy-to-understand and robust reports that help you track student progress and performance.
- The fully automated learning process and certification. You can mail notifications to your students or staff at any time as needed. Additionally, you can define certificates of completion in your LMS as they complete any course or program.
- Increase user retention and acquisition through interactive learning elements such as gamification. Use mini-games, points, badges, and rewards to make online learning fun while providing a great learning experience.
6. Seamless integrations
Even a powerful LMS cannot operate in a silo. It needs to communicate with other critical software like your CRM and billing and subscription tools for you to work in sync with other business-critical functions in your organization. Users can access LMS features and content from any mobile device, iOS or Android. We have provided all the channels for you. Look for an LMS that integrates easily with your existing software for comprehensive operations.
7. Easy maintenance
With a cloud LMS, you don't need to worry about fixing bugs or any other technical glitches that come with regular maintenance. LMS vendors often have a range of IT support staff available to handle these issues and update the software regularly while you focus on imparting knowledge to your users.
8. Cloud-based
One obvious advantage of using a cloud LMS – users can access it from anywhere and from any device. Whether they prefer to learn on a laptop, desktop, or smartphone, a cloud-based LMS is a convenient and simple way to learn. All that is needed is an internet connection and they are ready.
9. Secure but also accessible
High-quality SaaS LMSs come with security features that protect the ultimate cloud-based platform along with the data you store. It is important that the SaaS LMS provider meets industry standards for cloud security and data privacy. All your content is organized so you can find it easily when you create your course. That is a huge time saver. Sharing and growing knowledge is also effective with increasing security for accessibility. SaaS-based learning management systems reach audiences on a global scale and maintain collaboration and in-depth discussions.
Final word
SaaS is rapidly replacing on-premises software in modern businesses. SaaS models enable faster deployment, ease of use, and accessibility. Moreover, they provide great features such as social learning, associative learning, mobile learning, and gamification. Not to mention other benefits such as reporting and monitoring are available.
Furthermore, there is no denying that the cloud-based model or SaaS is more suitable and will continue to exist. Even if a hosted LMS might suit your needs today, are your future-proofing your business? To thrive in a highly competitive e-learning environment, the SaaS model provides critical drivers such as seamless integration, scalability, and flexibility – allowing you to drive growth and maximize revenue generation.
Gain the benefits of a top-notch SaaS LMS by contacting our experts today.