A learning management system (LMS) is a digital platform that provides a learning and training environment. In other words, it is an online learning tool that creates a setting for learners and instructors to collaborate to implement a learning process.
An LMS is a powerful tool in and of itself for employee training and eLearning. However, when combined with other equally powerful and practical tools, it becomes impossible to beat.
It is similar to how two people working on a project together are more effective than one person working on it alone. This is the allure of LMS integrations, which we will investigate in this post.
When an LMS is integrated with some other piece of software, it expands its functionality and provides better results to the end users.
Here is a list of LMS integrations you need to improve your L&D processes.
CRM
Platforms such as SalesForce LMS integrate your CRM (customer relationship management) software with your online training system. They enable you to create personalized online learning plans for sales and customer service personnel based on their skill gaps and your company’s goals. You can also use an LMS with CRM to improve communication with potential and loyal customers and to digitize specific processes.
For instance, the learner receives automatic online training certification paths or training recommendations to address their low conversion rates.
Integrations with APIs
An API is a programming interface that allows developers to manage applications. Each API, like a password and username, has a set of keys (credentials). API accelerates processes by automating manual steps and connecting a company database to all other internal systems rather than leaving them isolated. For instance, new hires will be added automatically to the LMS via an HR system, complete with titles, office locations, and training history information.
API security and verification are critical steps in ensuring data transfer security. Most businesses deploy APIs to their partners and customers to ensure that relevant data is easily and quickly shared.
eCommerce
The primary benefit of integrating a learning management system with an eCommerce tool is that it allows you to sell your online courses quickly. You can create an online storefront and begin selling your courses immediately using a popular eCommerce platform like Shopify.
In an eCommerce and LMS integration, course creators will receive all the support typical of an eCommerce site, like shopping carts, promos, credit card verification, and payment processing. You can set up the store in minutes, add your branding, and do several other things. Another valuable aspect of this integration is the availability of sales reports for insights.
SSO (Single Sign-On)
SSO is an access control system that allows users to log in to a software or application with a single username and password. Simply put, an LMS, when integrated with SSO, allows users to utilize the same credentials for accessing multiple but related services and applications. This could include an email ID or any other type of personal information.
Since only one set of login credentials is being used across all applications, such LMS integrations make it easier for learners to remember their login information. Furthermore, web administrators can homogenize their access management and impose a uniform access policy.
Video Conferencing Software
During the pandemic, organizations worldwide had to decide whether to move their learning and training events to the virtual realm or cancel them entirely. When this shift occurred, many LMS providers designed integrations with notable video conferencing software, allowing organizations to host virtual events through their LMS (rather than investing in separate virtual event software).
Among the most popular video conferencing solutions are:
- GoToMeeting
- Webex
- Adobe Connect
- Zoom
Integrating your LMS with video conferencing software has advantages that extend beyond hosting virtual events. You can also feature a guest lecturer or SME (subject matter expert) using the video conferencing tools built into your LMS.
LMS Integrations With Social Media
Nowadays, anything that does not include social media appears incomplete. Keeping this in mind, it is not an exaggeration to say that social media LMS integrations are critical for your business. Businesses, for instance, can utilize online discussion threads, polls, live chats, and other user-generated content to solicit customer feedback.
Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is a low-cost, secure way for businesses to back up data. Organizations and users save documents, graphics, presentations, videos, sound recordings, and other information resources to cloud storage applications such as Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft OneDrive, and Box instead of local drives. The cloud also allows for multi-person and multi-device access and file sharing.
Many organizations reuse resource files and media for multiple areas, such as sales and training. Instead of manually uploading all identical files to the LMS (as in the past), cloud storage integration autonomously retrieves relevant files and presents them within courses or as standalone content elements.
With cloud storage and LMS integration:
- An organization can edit a media file (such as a logo or company profile video) in one location, and the change will be immediately reflected in all applications.
- Learners can upload their own files and documents and work together on course assignments.
Course Authoring Software
While some LMSs contain built-in authoring tools, some don’t. In the latter case, it’s advantageous if those alternatives integrate with your preferred course authoring software, allowing for the smooth delivery of learning material to your LMS.
Some LMSs provide both functionalities—the ability to integrate with your preferred authoring software and built-in course authoring tools. This is the ideal solution because you can easily create training courses within the LMS and also transfer courses designed extrinsically (for example, if you collaborated with an instructional designer who used their preferred software).
Conclusion
When you combine an LMS with other powerful tools, its potential is multiplied many times over. Although you must select the tools to integrate based on your business needs, you should never underestimate the power of LMS integrations.
The LMS integrations are a perfect solution if you want to improve the functionality of your learning management system and transform it into a powerful instrument for your organization.
