15 Best Learning Management Systems in 2024: Features, Pricing, User Ratings, & More
A review of the top performing LMS Software in 2024. You will find pros, cons, standout features, best-suited-for analysis, pricing, and more.
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Introduction
In today’s fast-paced business environment, employee training and development are crucial in maintaining a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. Companies need effective tools to manage and deliver training content efficiently. Learning Management Systems (LMS) provide a solution to this challenge.
What is LMS?
Learning Management System, or LMS, is a web-based medium for training or upskilling employees by delivering educational courses, training programs, and learning and development programs. It is a centralized hub for creating, delivering, tracking, and managing learning initiatives.
From efficient content management to personalized learning experiences, an LMS empowers companies to invest in their most valuable asset—their people. However, the objectives of an LMS can differ according to organizational requirements, personnel, and functions.
Features of LMS
Some of the must-have features of an LMS are:
Certification: When the learners complete a course or perform well in the assessment, they are awarded a certificate to boost their morale and motivate them to learn more.
Gamification: Use badges, leaderboards, points, and more to motivate learners by rewarding them.
Customization: Customize the software according to company needs and white label the platform with your company logo, images, and primary colors.
Mobile Learning: Mobile applications that allow learners to access their learning content anywhere and anytime.
Multi-Lingual Support: Organizations bearing offices in many corners of the world must consider having this feature to avoid the language barrier.
Real-time Reporting and Analytics: Daily, weekly, monthly, and custom reports of the learners based on their performance and progress.
API and Third-party Integrations: Daily, weekly, monthly, and custom reports of the learners based on their performance and progress.
Social Learning: With options like live chat and group chats, the learners can share and collaborate on learning materials and information with their peers.
Content Marketplace: Off-the-shelf content from different departments, from HR to Software Technology, is available on request.
Blended Learning: Blend of traditional classroom training and modern ways of teaching.
List of Top 15 LMS Software in 2024
Canvas: A robust LMS that is known for its user-friendly interface and strong community support
Moodle: An open-source platform that offers extensive customization options for educators and learners
Google Classroom: Seamlessly integrates with G-Suite, making it convenient for educators and students to collaborate
Blackboard Learn: A well-established LMS with features like discussion boards, assessments, and grade tracking
Talent LMS: A cloud-based solution that focuses on simplicity and scalability for corporate training
Adobe Learning Manager: Part of Adobe’s suite, it is best for emphasizing multimedia content creation and interactivity
Litmos: A mobile-friendly LMS that caters to employee training and compliance needs
D2L Brightspace: Known for its adaptive learning capabilities and analytics-driven insights
360Learning: A collaborative platform empowering experts to champion employee growth
Docebo: Offers solutions for various learning audiences, including employees, customers, and partners
Udemy for Business: Provides a wide range of courses for upskilling and professional growth
Absorb: A scalable LMS with features like gamification and social learning
CYPHER Learning: A versatile LMS offering personalized learning experiences and supports multiple languages
iSpring Learn: Best for focusing on eLearning content creation and interactive assessments
Selecting the Top 15 LMS
To select the 15 Best LMS Software, I conducted an exhaustive analysis of the best-known LMS platforms, collected insights from platform demos, gathered feedback from HRs, and then scored the contenders across four parameters, namely Standout Features, Content Management, Integration Capabilities, and User Reviews.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the factors considered:
Standout Features
I looked at the range of features available on a platform without any additional integration. I also reviewed a platform for the functionality of its top features. In addition, I considered features that are unique to a platform.
Content Management
I evaluated platforms for features such as content authoring, reusable libraries, and personalization. I also assessed platforms for versatility and range of content formats, course creation, and gamification.
Integration Capabilities
I evaluated platforms for Open-Source API Integrations that help drive product adoption and automate user identification and data-sharing processes across a range of products. I considered features like SSO and Data Pulling for reporting and analytics.
User Reviews
To gauge customer sentiment and understand what users liked and disliked in specific products, I analyzed customer ratings and reviews of each product from 3rd party review sites such as G2 and Capterra.
Expert Score
I also leveraged our expertise in the HR domain to identify the top platforms in the industry. I structured my judgment around additional considerations such as reputation, ease of use, value for money, customer support, scalability, and information security, which are clubbed together as an expert score.
Canvas LMS is a web-based learning management system (LMS) widely used to manage online course materials and facilitate communication about skill development and learning achievements.
Canvas is designed to make teaching and learning more accessible to everyone with personalized and intuitive learning guides. Canvas LMS guides educators throughout their professional development by providing courses and information on best practices, district-approved plans, and leadership strategies.
Best For: Companies and Educational Institutions of all sizes
Standout Features
Collaborative Tools
Dashboard & Stats
Data Reports
Seamless Integrations
Canvas Studio
Feedback Tool
Pros
Canvas offers robust customer support.
The product is user-friendly and has a shallow learning curve.
Customer Reviews
“It's ease of use and customer support is really impressive” (Source: G2)
Cons
There is a lack of better customization on the user end.
Canvas could improve on maintaining consistency in performance across browsers and mobile applications.
Customer Reviews
“Inconsistencies in the platform performance which can be frustrating when trying to complete a task.” (Source: Capterra)
Moodle LMS is an excellent open-source learning management system for academic settings. It easily connects with other educational resources like student information systems, video conferencing tools, and plagiarism detectors. It is actively being improved by a global community of academic professionals, learning specialists, and developers.
It has an accessibility checker that makes sure all your content is usable by people with different learning needs.
Best For: Small and Mid-sized Enterprises
Standout Features
Extensive Customization
Accessibility
Rewards & Recognition
Notifications and Task Tracking
Teaching & Learning Tools
Multi-lingual
Pros
The product provides extensive features.
Customer support is responsive.
Customer Reviews
“I've worked with support tickets before. But the Moodle Support Team is out of this world. Super-fast response, research, and help in addressing questions, fixing issues, and walking us through upgrades” (Source: G2)
Cons
The product has a steep learning curve due to too many features and complexities.
The user interface and customization abilities need improvements.
Customer Reviews
“The Moodle user interface may not be intuitive, making navigating and using the platform challenging and difficult to tailor to their requirements or tastes.” (Source: G2)
Google Classroom is a streamlined LMS that integrates seamlessly with Google’s suite of applications to provide a comprehensive virtual learning environment. As part of the Google Workspace for Education, it offers a centralized hub for users to access coursework materials and manage classes online.
Google Classroom is praised for its AI-supported practice sets for interactive assignments, that provide real-time recommendations and personalized learning experiences. Additionally, the platform has integrated interactive questions in YouTube video assignments, enhancing engagement and providing instant feedback.
Best For: Academic Institutions and Corporations of all sizes
Standout Features
Customizable Grading System
Tailored Lessons
Virtual Announcements
Feedback Loop with rubrics
Live Classes
Classroom Analytics
Pros
Ease of use and accessibility
Excellent customer support
Customer Reviews
“The customer support of Google has been reputable.” (Source: G2)
Cons
Limited features as compared to other LMS in the market
Google’s ecosystem dependency where the LMS works best when integrated with other Google services
Customer Reviews
“A lot of features of classroom are lacking or are difficult to access...” (Source: G2)
Blackboard Learn is a robust and versatile learning management system that supports various teaching theories and models, making it adaptable to the unique needs of users. It’s particularly noted for its ability to enhance student achievement through various interactive and collaborative tools.
Its deployment options range from cloud-based to on-premises solutions, offering comprehensive support services in multiple languages.
Best For: Medium to Large Enterprise and Educational Institutions
Standout Features
Simplified Grading System
Generating Robust Reports
Blackboard SafeAssign
Blackboard Collaborate
Financial Aid
Mobile App (Blackboard App)
Pros
The features Blackboard offers are intuitive and easy to use
Institutions can customize the interface to cater to their specific needs, including third-party tool integrations
Customer Reviews
“The platform can integrate with many third-party tools and apps...” (Source: G2)
Cons
The cost of Blackboard is a limiting factor, especially for smaller institutions or those with limited budgets
With too many features, Blackboard experiences glitches at times, affecting user experience
Customer Reviews
“Bad UI, too many features that can be overwhelming, and things are not appropriately placed.” (Source: G2)
Talent LMS is a cloud-based learning management system that lets instructors swiftly set up new courses with minimal initial setup effort, and independent training portals to serve different departments termed as Branches. The product seamlessly integrates with third-party apps for quicker video conferencing or payroll processing.
With white labeling, you may alter the mobile app and web-based LMS to align the platform with your brand’s aesthetic. Talent LMS is updating its user interface and giving its content authoring tools generative AI capabilities. Additionally, Talent LMS also provides a Talent Library featuring 800+ readymade courses.
Best For: SMEs
Standout Features
Gamification
Dynamic Reports
White Labeling
Content Authoring
Automation
Accessibility
Pros
Easy to use and engaging for learners
Reasonable pricing plans with custom plan flexibility
Customer Reviews
“Really easy to use. They offer a subscription plan that allows us to pay only for 'Active' learners.” (Source: G2)
Cons
Room for improvement in automating all tasks
Limited number of features and integrations in a relative context
Customer Reviews
“Seemed limited as to features when comparing to other LMS Platforms.” (Source: G2)
Adobe Learning Manager LMS, formerly Captivate Prime, is a versatile learning management system designed to deliver personalized learning experiences at scale. It provides LCMS functionalities, xAPI integrations, and access to a marketplace with over 86,000 courses across various topics.
Adobe Learning uses AI and ML to tailor courses and learning pages to the company’s needs. Users can purchase programs like Adobe Creative Cloud and other training and leadership modules with its content marketplace.
Best For: Companies of all sizes
Standout Features
Gamification
Automated Learning Plans
Customizable Reports
Social Learning
Gamification
Automation
Pros
The platform is easy to understand and navigate
Shows a range of LMS training options for AI and peer-recommended training
Customer Reviews
“Adobe Learning Manager provides both pre- and post- training opportunities for our clients.” (Source: G2)
Cons
Customizing certain features may require technical expertise
There is a lack of flexibility in using the software
Customer Reviews
“An LMS that doesn't offer customization options or the ability to adapt to specific organizational needs and workflows may limit its usability and appeal.” (Source: Capterra)
Litmos LMS is a cloud-based learning management system renowned for its ease of use and feature set. The platform offers robust content authoring capabilities, allowing users to create dynamic SCORM content, and supports web-based and instructor-led LMS training modules for scheduling and managing classroom or virtual sessions.
Litmos offers social learning and notifications to drive course completion rates, task automation to efficiently manage group enrollments and learning paths.
Best For: Medium to Large Enterprises
Standout features
Gamification and Leaderboards
Video Assessments
Customized Learning Paths
Content Authoring Tools
E-Commerce Capabilities
Extensive Tracking and Reporting
Pros
The platform is easy to use and navigate
Customization of the platform catering to your domain is easy
Customer Reviews
“We were able to customize our platform to add metadata that we can use to filter with when running reporting. Our company has several branches internally, so this helps us know who needs to take required training.” (Source: G2)
Cons
Internal assessment reporting feature has room for improvement
The customer support team is not as efficient and lacks providing timely response
Customer Reviews
“The customer service experience is not the greatest... The follow up to some of the tickets we have submitted has taken weeks or longer or we've been given a "it's supposed to work like that" response.” (Source: G2)
D2L Brightspace is a comprehensive learning management system. It’s a cloud-based platform that offers various tools for course management, learner engagement, student tracking, and multimedia support. Brightspace stands out with its ability to create personalized learning experiences at scale.
It offers content templates with interactive features and built-in LMS training modules, like curricula-based resources to prepare users. They also provide mobile-first interfaces for more straightforward navigation. Lastly, it enables unlimited data uploads and content authoring to help users tailor their libraries according to their needs.
Best For: Companies of all sizes
Standout Features
Instant Onboarding
Performance Monitoring
Automation
Tracking and Reporting Analytics
Personalized Learning Guides
ePortfolios
Pros
Allows for customization to institutional needs
It offers excellent customer support
Customer Reviews
“Their customer service and support is, by far, the best.” (Source: G2)
Cons
The pricing is relatively costly for certain features
Some features need assistance for its use
Customer Reviews
“It may be that it requires good training to implement and needs better documentation.” (Source: G2)
360Learning is a powerful learning engagement platform designed to streamline the learning culture for users. It empowers companies to upskill from within by turning their experts into champions for employees, customers, and partner growth.
The platform combines LMS (Learning Management System) and LXP (Learning Experience Platform) capabilities, along with collaborative learning Academies, to power your business’s upskilling flywheel. 360Learning also fosters communication through timely training feedback and surveys for better performance.
Best For: Medium to Large Enterprises
Standout Features
Compatibility
Enhanced Training Management
Accessibility
Certificates to Learners
Seamless Integration
Performance Reports
Pros
The platform is easy to use and navigate
The customer support is strong and efficient
Customer Reviews
“The ease of use and technical support are really great.” (Source: G2)
Cons
The mobile app has room for improvement
The platform, after updates, shows certain technical glitches
Customer Reviews
“There are a few small problems with the platform design such as not being able to set courses as drafts and accidentally sharing them.” (Source: G2)
Docebo is a cloud-based LMS software for enterprises emphasizing comprehensive training administration and tracking features.
Due to its comprehensive feature set, it’s one of the top learning management systems for enterprise-level training, including onboarding, customer, and partner training. However, the product might not be appropriate for academic institutions and small and medium-sized enterprises.
Best For: Large Scale Enterprises
Standout Features
Accessibility
License Organization
Enables Mobile Learning
Automation and Personalization
Extensive Integrations
Social Learning Capabilities
Pros
Ease of use and navigation due to clean user interface
Docebo offers an efficient customer support team
Customer Reviews
“Good support from Docebo at set up and after when any problems arise.” (Source: G2)
Cons
Limited automation and reporting capabilities
No built-in AI authoring tool adds to its limitations
Customer Reviews
“The reporting part of Docebo could be a little better. It feels like we have only limited options.” (Source: G2)
LinkedIn Learning for Business, a unit of LinkedIn, is a comprehensive online learning platform that enhances employees’ professional development offering a wide range of high-quality, professionally produced content that is fresh and relevant to today’s workforce.
LinkedIn is widely accepted for its authenticity and content quality. It also allows an organization to upload its content and make it accessible to its in-house users. With strategic insights and data, LinkedIn Learning for Business helps organizations understand in-demand skills for today and the future, ensuring that employees are equipped to meet evolving business needs.
Best For: Companies of all sizes
Standout Features
Comprehensive Content
Personalized Learning
Accessibility
Skill-driven Outcomes
Dashboards and Analytics
Interactive Learners' Community
Pros
Organizations can upload custom content
Offers a certificate for course completion adding value to the CV
Customer Reviews
“It gives many courses which help us to develop knowledge and gain certificate which help us to build a good CV.” (Source: G2)
Cons
The platform’s focus on business, technology, and creative areas may limit its appeal for users with diverse learning interests
The pricing of the platform is a bit expensive
Customer Reviews
“The price of courses are bit on higher side and there is no option to skip any module.” (Source: G2)
Udemy Business is an innovative learning platform that offers a comprehensive suite of engaging, on-demand, immersive, and cohort-based learning solutions tailored to meet the needs of modern workplaces. Udemy Business provides tools and strategic partnerships to build a future-ready workforce, increase employee engagement, and drive business results.
The platform offers learning experiences in multiple languages and equips employees with the latest in-demand skills. This approach fosters a culture of continuous learning and development and helps bridge skills gaps, preparing teams for certification exams and enabling them to navigate change effectively.
Best For: SMEs
Standout Features
Different Learning Modalities
Certifications
Personalized Learning
Analytics and Reporting
Custom Content Hosting
Extensive Collection of Courses
Pros
Offers close to 600 free courses covering a wide variety of topics
Absorb LMS is a cloud-based learning management system designed to facilitate engaging and effective learning experiences. It is mainly known for its intuitive UI that supports various multimedia content formats and offers a responsive design that adapts to different devices.
It is equipped with social learning capabilities, allowing learners to interact and collaborate, and it also provides branded interfaces to maintain consistency with an organization’s identity. The platform is built to scale, serving millions of learners across numerous industries, and it is praised for its agile features and quick setup, ensuring that businesses can start LMS training without delay. Absorb LMS also empowers administrators to share their knowledge through course selling.
Best For: Companies of all sizes
Standout Features
Automation
Mobile App
Observational Checklists
Better Monitoring Capabilities
Customization
Integration
Pros
Flexibility in content management
Ease of setup and implementation
Customer Reviews
“The implementation process was fantastic.” (Source: G2)
Cons
Reporting issues and limitations in its capabilities
Room for improvement in user interface that leads to a steep learning curve
Customer Reviews
“The course content page needs more intuitiveness, and users get frustrated when moving to the next learning object.” (Source: G2)
Cypher Learning is an innovative learning management system (LMS) that integrates high-performance tactics to meet the needs of enterprises, entrepreneurs, and academic institutions. The platform offers a comprehensive suite of features, including an extensive app center, various account types, and in-depth administration tools. With its focus on automation, Cypher Learning streamlines the learning process by integrating rules engines and automated messages, ensuring efficient user activities and learning paths management.
It provides four different class styles and authoring tools to assist instructors in producing the content necessary to support learners’ growth. Using a competency-based approach, it builds courses and other resources that focus on learners’ development.
Best For: Companies of all sizes
Standout Features
Course-Creation Tools
Advanced Assessment Options
Gamification Tools
Customized Recommendations
Interactions and Engagement
Skills-based Goals for Performance Matching
Pros
The product is intuitive and user-friendly
It is highly customizable
Customer Reviews
“I like the tool's flexibility and customization capabilities which makes it possible to personalize the tool to our own liking.” (Source: G2)
Cons
The learning curve is steep due to several features being offered
There is room for improvement in certain features like attendance, reporting, profile update, etc.
Customer Reviews
“While CYPHER Learning has its merits, there's room for improvement in its attendance feature.” (Source: G2)
iSpring Learn is a versatile cloud-based Learning Management System designed to streamline corporate LMS training and facilitate eLearning success. It allows users to upload and create content quickly, including presentations, courses, video tutorials, and documents. With unlimited storage space, iSpring Learn supports SCORM content and enables the creation of interactive long threads directly within the LMS. It also offers detailed viewing stats, customizable design, and the ability to build structured learning tracks with step-by-step navigation.
It also empowers learners to communicate with trainers and enables educators to give performance appraisals efficiently with comprehensive surveys and learner portals. Finally, iSpring Learn highlights brands with customization settings like white labeling and dashboard configuration.
Best For: Companies of all sizes
Standout Features
On-premises Installation
Automated Progress Checks
Tools for Streamlined Workflows
In-depth Assessment Reports
Freeform Assignments Feature
iSpring Suite
Pros
The setup is easy and quick
The support team is responsive and knowledgeable
Customer Reviews
“The iSpring Support Team is incredibly quick and efficient.” (Source: Trustradius)
Cons
Too many features make it a steep learning curve
The reporting feature has room for improvement
Customer Reviews
“Reporting tools are tedious to use” (Source: Trustradius)
Clientele
Panasonic Holding Corp
Microsoft
Adecco Group
Dell
Adidas
P&G
Pricing
Start Plan
$2.29 USD per user/month
Business Plan
$3.14 USD per user/month
Advantages of LMS Platforms
The main benefits of incorporating a Learning Management System (LMS) in your organization are:
Centralized Learning Content:An LMS acts as a central repository for all training materials, making it easy to organize, update, and distribute content from a single platform.
24/7 Accessibility:With an LMS, learning is not bound by time or location. Employees can engage in training at their convenience on the go.
Tracking and Reporting:LMS platforms offer robust tracking features. Administrators can monitor learner progress, completion rates, and performance metrics.
Cost-Efficiency:Traditional classroom training involves expenses like venue rental, travel, and printed materials. An LMS reduces these costs significantly.
Scalability:As organizations grow, so does their workforce. An LMS easily accommodates new learners, additional courses, and evolving content.
In summary, an LMS enhances learning efficiency, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness while providing valuable insights for continuous improvement.
Challenges of LMS Platforms
Implementing a Learning Management System (LMS) can present challenges such as:
Engagement:Keeping learners engaged is a significant challenge. An LMS must offer interactive and compelling content that captures attention.
Customization:Creating tailored experiences for learners requires sophisticated algorithms with a deep understanding of learner data, which can be expensive.
Data Implementation Hurdles:While LMS platforms provide tools for tracking learner progress, translating this data into actionable insights can be complex.
Integration Hassles:The technical setup of an LMS can be daunting. Integration with existing systems, data migration, and user authentication are common hurdles.
Content Quality:Sourcing engaging and relevant content material that aligns with learning objectives can be time-consuming and challenging.
Addressing these challenges is key to leveraging the full potential of an LMS for organizational learning and development.
How to Choose the Right LMS?
Selecting an LMS is a critical decision for organizations aiming to enhance employee training and development. Begin by understanding your specific needs, such as the type of content you’ll deliver, the number of users, and any integration requirements.
Identify your LMS training goals, user demographics, and technical infrastructure. Also consider factors like scalability, security, and compliance. Ensure the LMS supports various content formats (videos, documents, quizzes) and one that can grow with your organization. Assess the vendor’s support services and responsiveness and balance features with cost.
In summary, prioritize an LMS that aligns with your organization’s goals, offers robust features, and provides excellent user experience. A well-chosen LMS not only facilitates learning but also contributes to overall organizational success.
FAQs
Q. How does LMS content management work?
A. Content management within an LMS involves several key steps:
Upload: Admins or instructors upload learning materials (e.g., presentations, videos, quizzes) to the system.
Organization: Content is organized into courses, modules, or categories.
Access Control: Permissions are set to determine who can view, edit, or create content.
Delivery: Learners access content through the LMS interface.
Q. What are the cost components of an LMS?
A. Broadly, LMS costs include:
Initial Setup: Implementation, customization, and integration with existing systems.
Subscription Fees: Regular payments for using the LMS.
Additional Features: Some features (e.g., advanced analytics, gamification) may incur extra costs.
Support and Maintenance: Ongoing technical assistance and updates.
Q. What are the different components of LMSs?
A. Some of the components of LMSs are:
Online Component: LMSs host digital content, including self-paced courses, videos, and interactive modules.
In-Person Component: LMSs schedule live sessions, webinars, or workshops.
Blended Learning: It combines the benefits of both online and face-to-face instruction, allowing flexibility and personalized learning experiences.
Q. What types of training materials can an LMS handle?
A. LMS software can handle various training content, including:
Courses: Structured modules with lessons, quizzes, and assessments.
Videos: Host video-based LMS training materials.
Documents: Upload PDFs, Word files, and other documents.
Webinars: Schedule and manage live online sessions.
Q. How do I track learner progress and performance using an LMS?
A. LMS platforms provide many robust tracking and reporting features such as:
Completion Tracking: Monitoring who has completed specific courses.
Assessment Results: Tracking quiz scores and performance.
User Activity Logs: Viewing login history, time spent on courses, and interactions.
This article is written by Shabana Shahnaz who is a Product Research Analyst at Vantage Circle. As a post-graduate in Applied Sociology, Shabana is passionately interested in people dynamics. She writes everything in and around Human Resources that helps professionals find what they're looking for in the HR domain. To get in touch, reach out to editor@vantagecircle.com