Key Takeaways
Flexible and creative learning has become essential for competing and adapting to current and future challenges. Companies increasingly rely on learning and development tools to support their employees’ development, which is where online training courses come in handy.
But now, a similar study done by LinkedIn shows that 94% of employees are willing to work more years for their current employer if they are provided with career advancement opportunities. This statistic shows that retaining employees and ensuring organizations invest in knowledge-sharing tools is essential.
We are excited to introduce you to 23 highly engaging and innovative learning and development platforms within this blog. These platforms can revolutionize your team’s learning process and professional growth. Get inspired by the transformative capabilities of these high-calibre tools, each designed to propel your team to new heights of productivity and achievements.
An Overview of Learning and Development
Learning and Development (L & D) refers to enhancing an individual or organizational performance through knowledge acquisition, training courses, and competencies. It shows that an organization takes a long-term approach to employee training programs to ensure employees can develop professionally and deal with new challenges in some positions.
For instance, an organization offering software development services wants to adopt a high-quality learning and development program. They provide technical training on emerging languages and tools at the development platform, project management tools, project manager-level training, and training for business development and client interactions.
L&D is essential as it equips employees with the relevant skills, transforming them into innovators, team players, and achievers of the company's goals. This not only boosts retention rates and employee morale but also fosters a culture of achievement, motivating employees to strive for excellence in their roles.
Advantages of Training and Development for All the Stakeholders
Learning and development tools have numerous advantages for employees, customers, and organizations in learning new concepts and harnessing the benefits to create positive organizational improvements and achievements. Let’s take a closer look at how this continuous learning is beneficial to all:
1. For Employees
- The learning and development process offers promotional opportunities, improved skill acquisition, and a better position in the job market.
- The opportunity to participate in continued training and development activities will enable the employee to advance in their career and help them fill skill gaps.
- Job satisfaction and morale are closely tied to being valued or having someone else care about one’s organisational development.
- It increased problem-solvability and capacity to manage change through adaptability in the existing work landscape.
2. For Customers or Stakeholders
- Well-trained employees offer better services to various consumers, thus improving satisfaction and loyalty.
- They encourage the generation of new ideas, products, services, and solutions that can satisfy customers' needs.
- Staff members need training to improve their performance, and companies that focus on employee skill development gain the trust of customers and other market stakeholders.
3. For Organizations
- Employees with working skills and interest in what they do deliver more results, increasing organizational effectiveness.
- By signifying an organization’s dedication to employees’ professional growth, course management tools help recruit and retain the best talent.
- Lower turnover and improved performance translate to lower expenses in employee recruitment, initial training, and orientation.
- Compliance training and soft skills enable organizations to be more competitive and responsive to technology, industry trends, and customers’ needs.
By establishing broad-ranging course management tools, organizations enable the workforce to thrive and develop organizational learning and innovation climates that accrue value to clients and organizational stakeholders.
Types of Learning and Development Tools
LMS tools are critical for organizations that require skills and growth within the workforce to improve their productivity and adaptability. Ranging from open source Learning Management Systems(LMS) to the more recent and popular microlearning platforms, these facilitate different types of learning depending on a given industry’s needs or employees’ learning preferences.
1. LMS (Learning Management Systems)
- Learning Management Systems are critical to organizational training, as they provide all the necessary tools for course delivery, learning progress, and learning outcomes tracking.
- Moodle and Canvas are among the most preferred learning development tools. They offer efficient solutions easily configured to facilitate and manage online courses.
- They play a significant role in enforcing compliance training, staff development, and knowledge management across micro, small, and large organizations.
2. Learning Experience Platforms (LXP)
- To enhance the learning experience of the learners, organizations leverage Learning Experience Platforms.
- There are Learning experience platforms (LXPs ), Degreed and Cornerstone OnDemand, that aggregate content from different sources and provide activity feeds to promote social learning.
- These platforms are built with the customer in mind. They utilize data to suggest the most helpful content for the user and encourage learning and skill enhancement daily.
3. Course Authoring Platforms
- Training programs allow organizations to develop unique content that addresses specific training needs.
- Examples of such content authoring tools are Articulate 360 and Adobe Captivate, which assist in creating interactive courses with multimedia features and quizzes.
- This is a great advantage that allows subject matter experts to develop content that will interest learners.
4. Digital Adoption Platforms
- Digital adoption platforms enable faster software implementation across organizations and among employees.
- Products like WalkMe and Whatfix supply guidance and training within applications to eradicate steep learning curves and optimize usage.
- These tools assist organizations in deriving the best value from their technologies by helping every employee use software tools to the company’s advantage.
5. Microlearning Platforms
- In the age of knowledge-hungry consumers, micro-learning platforms provide content that aligns with how learners access information today.
- Some examples of institutions giving knowledge in microlearning format include EdApp and Grovo, which offer short and engaging learning activities.
- Micro-learning platforms are easy to access and highly flexible, responding to just-in-time training requirements and enabling further employee education.
6. Online Course Providers
- Where there is no monetary support for internal training programs, organizations use Online Course Providers like LinkedIn Learning and Coursera.
- These have developed a humongous pool of courses ranging from technical, leadership, and other specialized fields.
- Such subscriptions allow employees to access quality information in their respective fields worldwide, thus enhancing their education and training.
7. Knowledge Sharing Tools
- Most companies use employee training tools to enhance employee communication and knowledge sharing.
- Tools like Microsoft Teams and Slack include knowledge-sharing functions like chat channels, file shares, and searchable repositories.
- These tools enhance instant communication, coordination, and practical problem-solving by leveraging the group’s wisdom to foster increased performance, organizational performance, and productivity software.
8. Video Training Software
- Video Training Software makes lessons more effective since it involves producing and relaying content in videos.
- Panopto and Kaltura are examples of platforms that assist organizations in developing and sharing video-based training resources.
- These tools accommodate different learning modalities, including video demonstration, virtual observation, and Instructor-led training, which has been proven to improve knowledge acquisition.
Through these various learning and development strategy approaches and mechanisms, learning becomes a culture within organizations; the employees can develop new skills that will enable them to propel the organization forward in the face of increased competition.
Choosing the Right Learning and Development Tool
Organizations must develop their human resource knowledge and skills to choose the right learning management system. Given the number of platforms available, identifying the best tool for your organization and learning environment is a process that takes time.
1. Focus on Your Learning Needs
Start by identifying the organisation's specific learning objectives, knowledge, and other skill gaps or deficiencies. The extent to which such requirements as technical training, leadership development, compliance courses, or other similar needs are precise will assist in eliminating platforms that do not offer the needed content and tools.
2. User Experience
It is better to consider options that give more importance to customer satisfaction and interface usage. Since employees use them, a user-friendly interface, intuitive design, and responsiveness are essential for high adoption and integration among the workforce.
3. Don’t Overlook Scalability and Flexibility
Analyze if the platform can expand to meet your organization’s needs and learning requirements in the future. Choose a solution capable of configuration incorporation into the existing architecture of learning technologies that can accommodate multiple delivery models (such as microlearning or virtual classrooms).
4. Insights into Detailed Reporting
The chosen platform must have elaborate analytics and report capabilities built-in or be easily accessible. These tools enable tracking learner behavior, training ROI, and providing information regarding L&D interventions. Appropriate data application promotes the constant enhancement of business processes and their compliance with goals.
5. Support and Maintenance
Choose platforms that provide technical assistance, training, and frequent updates. The vendor’s responsiveness regarding complaints and the existing assistance channels, such as the customer support knowledge base, are essential for timely decision-making and to ensure the platform is helpful in the long run.
Applying these tips, organizations can make the correct choice when selecting a Learning and Development tool that engages employees, promotes their skills development, and helps achieve organizational objectives.
Top Learning and Development Software Options
In the current dynamic business environment, L&D is one of the most critical tools companies can use to remain relevant in the market. Today, businesses and industries rely on more progressive solutions for the professional development of their employees.
In today's world, it is easier to find many different tools and solutions that will fit your needs, whether to have an all-encompassing LMS or more specific tools for specific learning needs.
1. LMS Options
1. EdisonOS
EdisonOS is an ideal LMS solution for any EdTech business since it provides tailored services. It is a comprehensive learning tool with features such as a branded iOS app, custom reports, and support for 4K videos. SCORM is also fully compatible with EdisonOS to provide compatibility with numerous educational standards. This platform is ideal for organizations that demand intricate configuration and features necessary to provide adequate training for their personnel.
EdisonOS is arguably the best digital SAT platform developed to assist trainers and educators in creating the best engaging courses. This platform shows its users a wide range of features, including SCORM support, white labelling, website building, and email marketing.
2. TalentLMS
TalentLMS was established in 2012 and has a reputation for being easy to navigate and utilize, allowing it to serve organizations of all sizes. It has a comprehensive list of features such as course and content creation, reporting and analytics tools, and gamification to increase learner engagement. TalentLMS is especially effective for organizations that require an efficient LMS solution for their training activities.
3. Docebo
It is also worth mentioning that Docebo has an AI-based learning that simplifies the training process for each user. Since launching in 2005, Docebo has established itself as a provider of LMS solutions for professional social media networks, learning, content management, and comprehensive access to reports. This platform is perfect for organizations who want to incorporate an enhanced technological feature to develop the human resource and their performance.
2. LXP Options
It is crucial to know that Learning Experience Platforms (LXPs) have transformed how organizations enhance their training programs and other development efforts. Collaborative with the concepts of LMS, LXPs are centred on the learning experience and employ innovative capabilities to address learners' learning modes. They are intended to facilitate participation in the learning process and increase the effectiveness of the learning experience.
1. Stream LXP by Learning Pool
Stream LXP by Learning Pool is renowned for its intuitive design and advanced content curation capabilities. Launched in 2020, it utilizes machine learning to recommend personalized learning paths, ensuring each user receives relevant and engaging content. Stream LXP also supports social learning, allowing users to share insights and collaborate effectively. This top learning experience platform is ideal for organizations looking to enhance learner engagement and drive continuous professional development.
2. NovoEd
NovoEd offers a collaborative and immersive learning experience platform, making it a standout choice in the LXP market. Since its launch in 2013, NovoEd has been praised for its ability to facilitate teamwork and real-world problem-solving through project-based learning. The platform's focus on social and experiential learning helps organizations build skills directly applicable to the workplace, ensuring a more effective and engaging training experience.
3. Online Course Authoring Tools
Creating engaging and effective online courses requires powerful authoring tools that provide flexibility and a range of features. These tools enable educators and trainers to design interactive and visually appealing course content, enhancing the learning experience for users. Whether you need advanced multimedia capabilities or intuitive design interfaces, there's a course authoring tool to meet your needs.
1. iSpring Suite
iSpring Suite is a comprehensive authoring tool known for its ease of use and integration with PowerPoint. Launched in 2005, it allows users to create interactive e-learning content, including quizzes, video lectures, and simulations. iSpring Suite's seamless integration with PowerPoint makes it accessible for users familiar with the Microsoft Office environment. It is an excellent choice for creating professional training courses quickly and efficiently.
2. Adobe Captivate
Adobe Captivate has distinguished itself from the competition with additional features that allow for the creation of responsive and engaging lessons. After its initial release in 2004, it quickly became popular among e-learning professionals as a tool for designing simulations, software demonstrations, and scenario-based training materials. Since the content produced by Adobe Captivate can be viewed on the device from which it was accessed, it is suitable for organizations that want to provide mobile learning.
3. Articulate Storyline 360
Articulate Storyline 360 has received favourable reviews regarding adaptability and the interface's intuitiveness for those who have had little to no prior experience in creating courses and those with extensive experience. It was started in 2012, and its features are interactive slides, quizzes, and branching scenarios. The specific features of the community and the gas library of resources compensate for the flaws of Articulate Storyline 360, positioning it as one of the best tools for developing captivating and interactive online courses.
4. Online course providers
So many online educational platforms have enriched online education services with different and diverse courses. The following online course providers aim to serve various learning purposes, whether for career enhancement, certification, or self-enrichment, thus offering education to millions of people around the globe.
Here are some of the most popular platforms that are changing our learning experience.
1. Udemy Business
Udemy Business is an ideal platform for delivering training and development solutions customized for the professional environment. Its platform has over 40 million users and over 155000 courses; categories cover IT, programming, leadership, and personal growth. Udemy Business offers organizations customized packages that include courses, quizzes, and reporting tools on the staff's learning, which makes it a powerful tool for companies that want to train their employees.
2. LinkedIn Learning
Lynda is now part of LinkedIn Learning. Com has evolved into a dominant player in professional education, taking advantage of its affiliation with the LinkedIn platform. It's available to more than 700 million customers and provides more than 16000 business, IT, and creative courses. LinkedIn Learning's offering entails recommending courses based on users' profiles and career objectives, making it easier for professionals to update their skills and knowledge sets as they progress continuously.
5. Knowledge sharing tools
Today's business climate requires organizations to provide comprehensive training and efficient communication tools for team cooperation to remain productive and competitive. Many applications and resources are available online to support training, communication, and worker collaboration. These tools include microlearning platforms and full-featured video conferencing solutions that offer the capability needed for teaching and engagement.
1. OttoLearn
OttoLearn focuses on microlearning, providing short, targeted learning activities to bolster learner knowledge and performance. Founded in 2018, the platform has automated learning paths, tracking and monitoring, assessment tools, and a reward/reward system to encourage learners. OttoLearn is suitable for organizations that wish to make learning solutions that can be integrated seamlessly into the working week and daily schedules.
2. Lessonly
Lessonly is a user-friendly training tool that facilitates team learning, rehearsal, and performance. For the convenience of navigation and functionality, Lessonly provides options like creating lessons, tests, and performance analysis. However, it is most suitable for customer service, sales, and onboarding training since organizations can rapidly support staff development programs.
3. LearnUpon
LearnUpon is a robust LMS designed for businesses of all sizes. Its features include course and content creation tools, certification options, and compliance and analytics tools. The intuitive design and numerous integration options underscore Learning Upon as a suitable solution for companies of all sizes wanting to digitize their training processes.
4. Trainual
Trainual is an all-in-one tool aimed at making the work of teaching and training others easier for businesses. Using many features such as customizable templates, assigning the content according to the role, and tracking the progress, Trainual makes onboarding and training more effective. It is best for business companies with a maximum of mid-size since it can manage most of their training, making it easier to maintain uniformity among their employees.
5. Loom
Loom is an application that records and shares video content within a few minutes. This tool applies to creating tutorials and feedback and presenting detailed information. Loom has no complicated user interface and synchronizes with other programs, making it a helpful tool for improving outreach and training.
6. Camtasia
Camtasia is an effective tool for capturing presentations or demonstrations and producing engaging and effective online tutorials. Other options, such as drag-and-drop editing tools, annotations, learning interactions, and test quizzes, make creating good content in Camtasia easy. It can be helpful for organizations that want to develop quality training videos and documents internally.
7. GoToWebinar
GoToWebinar is an outstanding tool for conducting real-time and engaging online meetings. It has features like the ability to send invitations automatically, create polls during the event, and track attendees' engagement levels. It is appropriate for conducting training sessions, presenting products or services, and supporting conferences as it is reliable and easy to scale up for many participants.
8. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams has a core set of features for interacting with team members through discussion channels, video calls, file sharing, and integration with other applications. It offers effective collaboration and comprehensive coordination within organizations, which makes it ideal for organizations practising flexible work settings such as remote and hybrid. Microsoft Office 365 enhances the integration of teams to facilitate efficient operations in handling documents or executing various tasks simultaneously.
9. WebEx
WebEx by Cisco is a professional video conferencing service. I chose it because of its sound and picture quality, screen sharing, and meeting recording capabilities. It can be used for small team discussions and other large presentations, such as webinars, with enhanced security to ensure that confidential info is well protected. It is easy to understand why many businesses have acclaimed and adopted WebEx as a dependable communication tool with many fully reliable features.
10. RecRoom
RecRoom is an application that uses virtual reality technology, enabling people to create and play games. It provides many computational games and modelling activities in a 3D digital format. To this end, RecRoom stands out as a valuable proposition for organizations that seek to experiment with unorthodox methods of boosting team morale and improving team cohesiveness when working remotely.
11. Slack
Slack is an essential communication tool, sometimes called an instant messaging service, that allows teams to collaborate in real-time. Slack has features such as channels, direct messages, and myriad integrations that make it easy for organizations to help enhance productivity. It is user-friendly and has many customizable features, which make it ideal for use in all sorts of organizations.
12. Troop Messenger
Troop Messenger is an essential military option for business and government sectors that provides team collaboration solutions. Some features include group texting, video conferencing, sending media files, and interacting with other applications. Due to strict security standards, it is appropriate for organizations that need data protection, which is why Troop Messenger is the best fit for such organizations.
13. Workplace
Workplace by Facebook is an application designed to integrate into the business environment and adopt some of the features of the social networking site to help people in organizations communicate effectively. It provides features like group messaging, live video sharing, and space for exchanging files. Ease of use and mobility on the web enables the Workplace to be helpful when interconnecting the workforce from different places and divisions.
How does the Learning and Development Tool have to be implemented?
Integrating learning and development tools in an organization must be done systematically and deliberately to reasonably achieve the organizational goal while effectively improving the employees' skills.
First, it is necessary to determine the needs of an organization and choose a tool specifically for meeting those needs. Then, a comprehensive plan will be created outlining the application's adoption process, its users' training, the integration with related systems, and the provision of support in overcoming potential obstacles.
- Notably, identify the skills deficiencies and training needs within your organization.
- Choose a platform that would enable you to achieve what you want and can support the changes you need to make.
- Map it out to understand when and where deployment will be done, what resources it will require, and who will be in charge.
- Ensure stakeholders, including administrators and end-users, receive adequate training to use the tool effectively.
- The new tool should be integrated into your IT environment to avoid disrupting operations.
- Monitor the tool's effectiveness periodically and always collate opinions to enhance it.
- It helps create a support system that will address any technicalities or concerns from the users.
Conclusion
Training is critical to any organization that seeks to remain relevant and foster employee growth as a strategic asset. This article reviewed 23 learning and development platforms, which differ in features and capabilities. These include microlearning platforms, learning management systems, collaboration tools, and video conferencing services.
These platforms are intended to increase employee competencies and efficiency and maintain organizational staff development. When implemented within your organization, these progressive solutions can be relied upon to develop meaningful and relevant training that meets business objectives. Indeed, the road to success is never-ending, and it is important to arm your team with all the necessary knowledge. This commitment to continuous improvement will keep your team motivated and engaged.
Leverage the opportunity for learning and development and experience a smooth ride into new levels of performance and productivity. The famous saying, ‘Give a man fish, and he eats for one day; teaches him fishing, and you feed him for a lifetime, ‘ applies well to these learning platforms in that investing in such tools prepares your team for the future. This forward-thinking approach will ensure your team is always ready for the challenges ahead.
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