Learning Management Systems | News

KnowledgeBase Service Compares LMSs

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 05/29/12

A research firm focused on organizational performance has just issued its latest updates to an online comparison of learning management systems (LMS). Access to the $1,595 database, "LMS KnowledgeBase 2012," from BrandonHall Group profiles 92 LMS offerings. The service includes online tools that allow the subscriber to compare systems side by side and drills down on 200-plus features in 31 categories. It also has 31 filters to allow the user to set a range of criteria by which to view product listings.

Updates added to this year's version include social learning features--such as blogs and wikis, peer rating of resources, tagging and bookmarking, team calendars, private messaging, and media sharing. For example, the company reported that 24 products featured in the research have the built-in ability for peer rating of material.

Profiles include the industries in which the tool is used and specific clients, as well as information about the size and history of the company or organization developing the LMS.

The knowledgebase includes a tool that allows vendors and LMS providers to update their information. Then the updates are "validated and reviewed continuously" by the BrandonHall research team, according to Chief Executive Officer Mike Cooke. "So that buyers can be assured that they are relying on information to enable them to make the most sound and informed decision when selecting a learning management system."

The company also said it would be releasing additional knowledgebases in the future, including services covering talent management, content management systems, authoring tools, and custom content.