Overview
An effective e-learning platform creates value by reducing the cost of deploying knowledge to wide audiences. Whether the goal is to promote understanding, reduce error, or assess human capability, an e-learning platform can serve many different roles. The critical component in an e-learning platform is the learning management system.

The Learning Management System
In short, a learning management system (LMS) is software application designed to host course modules. Most LMS deployments today are web-driven. Course participants login to the LMS to view and complete their modules. Modules on general topics can be acquired from publishers. Modules on more specific topics can be custom-designed using Microsoft PowerPoint, FrontPage, or any web media production software.

Advantages

• Hosts course modules effectively . LMS does a far better job hosting a SCORM or LRN course module than any other type of software on the market.
• Maintains records of course completion. LMS records participant activity as they attempt and pass courses.
• Easy to develop learning modules . The simplest course modules are made in PowerPoint.
• Minor assembly required. LMS requires minimal customization.

What an LMS is not
While LMS may provide several communication tools found on portals in their feature offering, LMS is not meant to replace Web Portals. Instead, the LMS is an effective tool to distribute e-learning activities.

Software and Hosting
While the LMS market is significantly smaller than the portal market, LMS vendors are typically independent companies who have formed strong partnerships with an industry leaders. Two LMS leaders are Blackboard 6 (supported by Blackboard Inc. and Microsoft) and Intelledon ALP (supported by Intelledon and IBM ). For small deployments, LMS vendors lease space on their servers on a "per-class" or "per-instructor" basis. Larger deployments may require a server cluster with the LMS software installed.

Suggested Deployment
The decision to construct server clusters to support LMS or to lease space will depend upon the number of courses offered at a time, the expected number of participants, and the expected bandwidth to be used by the server. In the short term, it may be prudent to lease LMS space on a per-course basis, as these leasing arrangements are typically short-term. As the course offering expands, a server cluster for LMS may be appropriate.

HOME
Associates
Consulting Approach
Chemical Portal
Education Portal
Contact Us