Module 1/4 26 min
Define the need before you look at any product
Step 1 / 2·What problem are you solving
0/2 steps done
Learning objectives — after this module you will:
- Identify the problem you are actually solving
- Separate must-haves from nice-to-haves
- Estimate realistic scale and budget
Learn ~12 min
What problem are you solving
Avoid buying a system that solves the wrong problem.
The phrase 'we need an LMS' hides at least four very different problems, and each one leads to a different class of product. Buying the wrong class is the commonest reason a system sits unused after a year.
Four problems, four product types
| The real problem | The system that fits |
|---|---|
| Proving to a regulator who learned what, and when | A system strong on records, compliance reporting and audit trails |
| Delivering training to thousands of people across many sites | A content delivery platform, prioritising mobile and low-bandwidth performance |
| Letting employees learn on their own and choose their own path | A learner-experience platform with content recommendations and a broad library |
| Tying training to a competency framework and appraisal | A talent management system, in which learning is only one component |
A system that does all four well is rare and expensive
Work out what share of the value your main problem represents, then buy the product strongest on that. Accept that it will only be adequate on the other three.