In today’s fast-paced business environment, effective employee training is essential for maintaining a competitive edge.
Companies increasingly turn to employee training software to streamline the learning process to deliver, track and evaluate their training programs. This comprehensive guide explores what employee training software is, why it’s important, the different types available, and how to choose the right platform for your team.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the best platforms on the market and how they can transform the training experience for small businesses and large organizations alike.
What is employee training software?
Employee training software, often referred to as a learning management system (or LMS, for short), is a digital platform designed to facilitate the learning and development of employees within an organization. It provides a centralized hub for creating, delivering and tracking training programs. It’s not strictly part of HR software, but it can be integrated.
Beyond the basics of creating and delivering courses, modern LMS platforms often include:
- Gamification: Incorporating game-like elements can increase employee engagement and motivation.
- Social learning: Features like forums, communities and collaboration tools foster knowledge sharing among employees.
- Mobile learning: Ensuring accessibility through mobile apps and responsive design.
- Artificial intelligence: Using AI to personalize learning paths, recommend content and provide intelligent tutoring.
- Integration: Seamlessly connecting with other HR systems, such as performance management and payroll, for a holistic view of employee development.
Why use employee training software
Employee training software has become a critical tool for businesses, especially in today’s digital age. Here are several reasons why:
- Efficiency: Traditional, in-person training programs can be time-consuming and costly. With employee training software, companies can automate many of these processes, saving time and money. Employees can access the material online, allowing them to learn at their own pace, which reduces the need for extended training sessions.
- Scalability: Employee training software grows with your business, making it suitable for both small businesses and large enterprises. Small businesses, in particular, can benefit from training platforms because they offer professional development without the need for a dedicated training department.
- Tracking and reporting: Employee training software often comes with built-in analytics that allow employers to monitor progress, test scores and completion rates. This is particularly helpful for compliance-based industries where tracking training is essential for adhering to regulations.
- Improved employee engagement: Personalized learning experiences, gamification and social features can boost employee satisfaction and motivation.
- Enhanced compliance: Automated tracking and reporting can help organizations meet industry regulations and standards.
- Data-driven decision making: Analytics and reporting provide insights into training effectiveness, allowing for continuous improvement.
- Talent development: A well-structured training program can help identify and develop high-potential employees.
Also, several emerging trends are making employee training software more advanced and efficient, with features such as:
- AI and machine learning: AI is being used to personalize learning paths, automate administrative tasks and provide intelligent tutoring.
- Blockchain: The potential of blockchain technology to ensure the security and integrity of training records is becoming more mainstream. Software apps such as Web3 Wallet help facilitate the financial side of such transactions.
- Extended reality (XR): The applications of AR and VR in employee training, particularly for hands-on skills and simulations, are increasing and making learning faster.
- Microcredentials: The trend of microcredentials as a way to validate specific skills and competencies will continue to grow in the near future.
Types of employee training software
Several types of employee training software are designed to meet different needs. Even after taking the easiest psychology degree, humans cannot achieve operational efficiency like software can. Understanding the features of each can help you decide which is best suited for your business.
Learning management systems
An LMS is the most commonly used employee training software.
LMS platforms manage the creation, delivery and tracking of training programs. They provide a central hub where employees can access training materials such as videos, documents or interactive courses, and are ideal for businesses that need to organize and deliver large-scale training programs.
Learning experience platforms
Learning experience platforms (or LXPs) focus on providing a more personalized and engaging learning experience.
They use AI and machine learning to recommend training based on the individual’s interests and learning history. Unlike LMS platforms, which are more structured, LXPs emphasize learner-driven experiences.
This software is ideal for businesses focused on employee engagement and long-term learning.
Corporate MOOCs
Short for massive open online courses, MOOCs have gained popularity in the corporate world as an affordable and accessible way to train employees.
Corporate MOOCs allow companies to provide standardized training to large numbers of employees, using courses created by third-party providers. This option is often best for businesses seeking low-cost training solutions for a wide audience.
eLearning content authoring tools
These tools enable businesses to create their own custom training content.
eLearning authoring tools are perfect for companies that want to develop personalized, company-specific training modules. With these platforms, businesses can design their training from scratch, ensuring it aligns with their unique goals and culture.
Microlearning platforms
Microlearning platforms focus on delivering training in bite-sized chunks. This format is particularly effective for businesses looking to improve knowledge retention and make training more accessible.
They continue to gain popularity due to their ability to deliver small, focused pieces of content that are easily digestible and retainable, and are ideal for ongoing learning, as they allow employees to quickly review key concepts without spending hours in a course.
Hybrid learning platforms
Many organizations are adopting a hybrid approach, combining online and in-person training to leverage the strengths of both.
Augmented and virtual reality
AR/VR technologies offer immersive learning experiences, particularly for hands-on skills or simulations.
AR overlays digital information — such as images, sounds or other data — onto the real world through devices like smartphones, tablets or AR glasses.
VR, meanwhile, immerses users in a completely virtual environment created by computer technology. Users typically engage with VR through headsets.
Digital adoption platforms
Digital adoption platforms (or DAPs) focus on providing guided content directly within applications or software.
They’re particularly useful for onboarding and product training through interactive walkthroughs and demos. They help users navigate complex software applications by providing in-app guidance, tutorials and support directly within the workflow.
Knowledge management systems
Also known as KMSs, knowledge management systems help organizations build a repository of company policies, processes and important documentation, ensuring employees have access to up-to-date information regardless of their location.
How to choose the right employee training software for your team
Selecting the right employee training software can seem daunting, given the wide range of options. However, keeping the following factors in mind will help you make an informed decision:
1. Identify your training needs
Before choosing a platform, assess what type of training your team requires. Is it compliance-based? Or are you focusing on upskilling employees with new skills? Understanding your training goals will help narrow down the types of software.
2. Consider scalability
As your business grows, so will your training needs.
Choose software that can scale with your company the easiest, allowing you to add new employees and courses without much hassle. Some platforms are better suited for small businesses, while others cater to larger enterprises with more complex training needs.
3. Evaluate user experience
The platform you choose should be easy to use for both administrators and employees. Look for features like intuitive interfaces, mobile access and engaging learning materials.
A good user experience will ensure that employees are motivated to complete their training.
4. Consider your budget and the ROI
Cost is a crucial consideration for any business. While some platforms offer comprehensive features at a higher price, there are more affordable solutions available for small businesses.
Weigh the cost of the software against the benefits it will bring to your company.
5. Review integration and flexibility potential
Ensure that the software integrates with other tools you’re already using, such as HR systems, communication platforms or CRM tools. Flexibility in content delivery is also important, so look for platforms that support various content formats, from videos to interactive quizzes.
6. Consider customization
While pre-built templates can save time, ensure the software can be customized to meet your organization’s specific needs, branding and learning objectives.
7. Evaluate support
Look for a vendor that offers excellent customer support, including timely responses, comprehensive documentation and training resources.
8. Assess how future-proof it is
Consider the software’s long-term roadmap. Will it continue to evolve with emerging technologies and industry trends?
Employee training software to consider
In the ever-evolving landscape of employee development, organizations are increasingly turning to specialized software to enhance training effectiveness and efficiency.
Here are 10 notable employee training software platforms that cater to diverse learning needs and organizational sizes, along with their features, pros and cons.
1. iSpring Learn
User-friendly with great customer support, supports various content types, but may lack advanced analytics and integration options.
Pros:
- Easy to use with a clean interface
- Great customer support
- Supports various types of learning content
Cons:
- Lacks some advanced analytics features
- Limited integration options
2. TalentLMS
User-friendly and customizable LMS platform suitable for small businesses, offering multimedia support and affordable pricing.
Pros:
- User-friendly and highly customizable
- Affordable for small businesses
- Supports multimedia content
Cons:
- Limited advanced features for larger organizations
- Some users find reporting tools less robust
3. Adobe Learning Manager
Offers reporting and tracking features with a mobile-friendly design and AI-based recommendations for personalized learning experiences.
Pros:
- Comprehensive reporting and tracking
- Mobile-friendly design
- AI-based recommendations
Cons:
- High learning curve
- Higher cost for small businesses
4. Docebo
A versatile LMS known for its intuitive interface and customization options, it integrates with numerous tools like Salesforce, and supports social learning and gamification, but may require customization for full potential.
Pros:
- Intuitive interface and customization options
- Integrates with numerous tools
- Supports social learning and gamification
Cons:
- Higher pricing tier
- Requires customization for full potential
5. Litmos
Offers strong integration with other SAP products, a user-friendly interface and pre-built courses, but may have limited customization and be expensive for smaller businesses.
Pros:
- Strong integration with other SAP products
- User-friendly with extensive reporting features
- Wide range of pre-built courses available
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Can be more costly for smaller businesses
6. Coursera for Business
Provides access to thousands of courses from leading universities and certifications, but may focus less on company-specific training.
Pros:
- Access to thousands of courses from leading universities
- Scalable for businesses of all sizes
- Certifications from renowned institutions
Cons:
- Less focus on company-specific training
- Subscription costs can add up
7. 360Learning
Emphasizes collaborative learning, peer-to-peer interaction and a simple interface, but may lack advanced features and integration capabilities.
Pros:
- Collaborative learning platform
- Strong focus on peer learning
- Simple and intuitive interface
Cons:
- Lacks some advanced features for large organizations
- Limited integration options
8. Seismic Learning
A straightforward platform focused on sales and customer service training, with customization options and ease of setup, but may have limited advanced features and not be suitable for diverse training needs.
Pros:
- Simple and easy to set up
- Offers a range of customization options
- Focus on sales and customer service training
Cons:
- Limited advanced features
- May not be suitable for companies with diverse training requirements
9. Kallidus Learn
Offers intuitive design, robust reporting, and support for both online and in-person training, but may be more suitable for smaller organizations.
Pros:
- Intuitive design and user-friendly interface
- Robust reporting and analytics
- Supports both online and in-person training
Cons:
- Less suitable for very large organizations
- Limited mobile functionality
10. Udemy Business
Provides a large catalog of courses, affordable pricing, and is good for small businesses seeking general learning, but may not be ideal for customized content.
Pros:
- Large catalog of courses on various topics
- Affordable pricing options
- Good for small businesses looking for general learning
Cons:
- Not ideal for creating customized, company-specific content
- Limited advanced tracking features
Additional platforms
- LinkedIn Learning: A popular platform offering a vast library of courses on various topics.
- Skillsoft: Provides a comprehensive suite of learning solutions, including courses, assessments and certifications.
- Open-source options: For organizations with technical expertise and a desire for cost-effectiveness, open-source LMS platforms like Moodle or Sakai can be viable options.
Key takeaways
As we’ve seen, investing in employee training software can be a great move for your business, ensuring that your employees remain trained and continuously upskilled so they can go above and beyond.
To sum up, here’s what we learned in this article:
- Employee training software simplifies the learning process, offering online access and streamlined management for companies of all sizes.
- There are different types of software, such as LMS, LXP and microlearning platforms, each catering to different learning styles and business needs.
- When choosing the right platform, consider factors like scalability, user experience and budget.
- Popular platforms include TalentLMS, Docebo, and Coursera for Business, each offering distinct features tailored for small businesses and large enterprises alike.
- Investing in the right employee training software can improve productivity, ensure compliance, and foster a culture of continuous learning in your organization.
Got a question or want to recommend a different employee training software? Let us know in the comments section below.