What is a Microsoft LMS?
Long story short, there is no Microsoft LMS. Years ago, Microsoft created a free tool for very basic learning management called SharePoint Learning Kit. Let me be clear, it doesn't work as a full blown LMS.
In a nutshell, the SharePoint Learning Kit is a SCORM 2004 certified e-learning delivery and tracking application built as a SharePoint solution (SharePoint 2007 and 2010). It has the following core features:
- Supports SCORM 1.2, SCORM 2004, and Class Server Content.
- Supports learner centric and instructor led workflows
- Allows assignments, tracking and grading of both e-learning and non-e-learning content.
Another thing to note, the Microsoft LMS i.e. SharePoint Learning Kit was designed for education not the corporate sector. There are big differences in the needs of these sectors for training such as reporting, compliance, certification, complex learning flows and much more.
While the developers maintained SharePoint Learning Kit for a short period of time, it is currently no longer being actively developed.
As it is right now, it will still work with on premise SharePoint 2007, 2010 and 2013. It has been untested on 2016, but there is a small possibility it may work. SharePoint Learning Kit will not work with Office 365 and never will be as it is written in full-trust code.
Microsoft LMS alternatives
So, what other options are there in lieu of a Microsoft LMS? There are several training options available by third party solutions. We happen to think ShareKnowledge reigns supreme for corporate training needs. The first corporate LMS built for SharePoint, ShareKnowledge is also a Microsoft partner with Gold application development competency.
Other options might suffice, but here are a few things to consider:
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Is the LMS built on top of SharePoint or just integrated with it?
ShareKnowledge is built on top of your SharePoint environment and acts and inherits all existing authentication protocols etc. Other systems with integration might have problems because it won’t be as cohesive and may have trouble ‘talking’ to all your business systems.
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Do you need a system built for a corporate or educational environment?
ShareKnowledge has done extensive research on the needs of business and have designed its features accordingly.
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Simple of complex business needs?
For some companies, all they need is simple training while others require more complex workflows. Some SharePoint-based LMS systems on the market cater to very small groups that almost exclusively use SharePoint out-of-the-box features. This means you cannot scale nor handle large amounts of data which is fine for some users. However, if you have multiple organizational units and very complex needs that require customization, than these simple apps will not suffice and you’ll need a system like ShareKnowledge to handle this.
ShareKnowledge is considered the industry’s most valuable SharePoint add-on – providing a powerful learning solution that will transform your organization and propel business productivity. Just like our name implies, we’re the experts in "sharing knowledge". A dynamic, enterprise-wide application that is integrated into all aspects of your business.
ShareKnowledge saves money by leveraging your existing SharePoint investment; saves time with a fully integrated LMS and content management system, automated training and a familiar Microsoft-like user experience; and, eliminates risk while unifying your entire organization and maximizing talent and performance.
If you’re looking for a Microsoft LMS, please call us at 425-996-4201 to find out how ShareKnowledge can provide the answer to your training needs.
