The 19 Best Learning and Development Tools: A Comprehensive Guide
Looking for our Text to Speech Reader?
Featured In
What Are L&D Tools?Learning and Development (L&D) tools refer to a range of online learning software solutions and platforms that facilitate the process...
What Are L&D Tools?
Learning and Development (L&D) tools refer to a range of online learning software solutions and platforms that facilitate the process of upskilling, training, and developing both new and existing employees. With the rise of elearning, these tools have become critical in helping organizations offer efficient training programs, streamline onboarding processes, and foster a continuous learning culture.
Benefits of L&D Tools
- Efficiency and Scalability: These tools allow companies to train multiple employees simultaneously, regardless of location.
- Engagement and Retention: Gamification, quizzes, and interactive modules can boost learner engagement and information retention.
- Flexibility: Employees can learn at their own pace, accessing materials online and offline.
- Real-time Monitoring: Managers and instructors can track learners' progress in real-time.
- Cost-Effective: Reduced logistical expenses as most tools are cloud-based and don't require physical presence.
Types of L&D Tools
- Learning Management Systems (LMS): Platforms like TalentLMS and Docebo that host and track online courses.
- Authoring Tools: Software like iSpring that allows the creation of elearning content.
- Virtual Classrooms: Tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams for instructor-led training.
- Assessment Platforms: For quizzes, tests, and other forms of learner assessment.
- Social Learning Platforms: Tools that combine traditional learning with social interactions.
Top Use Cases for Learning & Development Tools
L&D tools are perfect for online training and course content. Corporations can use L&D tools as a training solution, share tutorials, onboarding learning programs for employees, to even communication tools in the form of an intranet and customer support.
1. Employee Onboarding
Learning Management Systems (LMS) like Docebo and TalentLMS are crucial in onboarding new employees. They provide a streamlined process where newcomers can quickly get up to speed with the company's values, procedures, and job-specific training programs. The use of real-time notifications can alert supervisors on the progress of new hires. Integration with tools like Microsoft Office or Zoom can make the onboarding process seamless, offering features like webinars or instructor-led training.
2. Compliance Training
In industries that require strict adherence to policies and guidelines, LMS platforms provide an excellent solution for compliance training. Modules can be designed with authoring tools to include assessments, quizzes, and certifications that are required for the job. iSpring and Docebo are well-known for their SCORM-compliant modules, which can be effectively used for this purpose.
3. Upskilling and Retention
Given the fast pace of technological change, constant upskilling is crucial for employee retention. Microlearning modules can be designed to provide short, focused segments of learning to achieve a specific outcome. Features like gamification can make this process more engaging. TalentLMS is particularly good at offering microlearning functionalities.
4. Blended Learning
A blended learning approach that combines online courses with traditional instructor-led training can provide a richer learning experience. Tools like iSpring and Docebo offer this functionality by integrating virtual classrooms and offline capabilities with their standard LMS features.
5. Social Learning
With remote work becoming the norm, especially post-pandemic, the need for social learning tools that can replicate the office learning environment is more crucial than ever. Features like messaging, online forums, and social media-like interfaces can be integrated into the LMS platforms to facilitate this.
6. Mobile Learning
The ability to access learning materials on mobile devices is essential for on-the-go employees. Most modern LMS platforms offer Android and iOS mobile apps with full functionality, thus aiding in the learning process wherever the employee might be.
7. Content Creation and Management
With drag-and-drop features, templates, and content creation tools, creating a course has never been easier. LMS platforms like Docebo and TalentLMS offer robust course authoring options and a content library where all training materials can be stored and managed.
8. Analytics and Reporting
Real-time analytics can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of training programs, learner engagement, and areas for improvement. This data can be crucial for further fine-tuning the Learning & Development initiatives in an organization.
9. E-commerce for Training
Some organizations look to monetize their training programs. LMS platforms with e-commerce functionalities can offer courses on a subscription basis or one-time payment, thereby opening another revenue stream for the organization.
In summary, LMS platforms offer a multitude of use-cases that can be customized to fit the needs of any organization. Whether it's for onboarding new employees, compliance training, or upskilling current staff, a well-chosen LMS can be a cornerstone
The 19 Best Learning and Development Tools:
1. Docebo
Docebo is an AI-powered LMS that aims to redefine the way learning is done in a corporate setting. It is a cloud-based platform that specializes in elearning courses, compliance training, and offers an array of authoring tools. With functionalities like social learning and gamification, Docebo creates an engaging learning experience for employees. Its cloud-based nature ensures that the system can be accessed from both Android and iOS mobile devices, thereby increasing engagement and retention rates.
Top 5 Features:
- AI-driven personalized learning paths
- Real-time analytics and reporting
- SCORM, xAPI compliance
- Virtual classroom and webinars
- Mobile app for Android and iOS
Cost: Custom pricing based on organizational needs.
2. TalentLMS
TalentLMS is a highly versatile cloud-based learning management system designed to streamline the process of compliance and corporate training for businesses of all sizes. It supports multiple content formats and even has a built-in course authoring tool. The LMS provides an excellent range of integrations, including Zoom and Microsoft tools, for an enriched training management experience. It also includes features like quizzes, assessments, and gamification to make the learning process interactive and enjoyable.
Top 5 Features:
- Drag-and-drop content creation tools
- Built-in templates for quick course creation
- Gamification features
- Real-time tracking and notifications
- Mobile learning with an app for Android and iOS
Cost: Starts at $59/month for up to 40 users.
3. iSpring
iSpring is an LMS platform that allows for the creation and delivery of training courses, quizzes, simulations, and more. With seamless Microsoft PowerPoint integration, it provides an intuitive environment for content creation. Its mobile app ensures that learning can be done on-the-go, catering to both Android and iOS devices. iSpring also offers advanced analytics to monitor learner progress in real-time.
Top 5 Features:
- PowerPoint integration for easy content creation
- Mobile app for Android and iOS
- SCORM compliance
- Quizzes and interactive assessments
- Customizable learning paths
Cost: Starts at $770 per user per year.
4. Adobe Captivate Prime
Adobe Captivate Prime is a learning management system that focuses on employee training and other Learning & Development initiatives. Known for its user-friendly interface, it offers a range of authoring tools for content creation and supports various formats like SCORM, AICC, and xAPI. The platform also features mobile learning capabilities, allowing learners to access training materials through mobile devices.
Top 5 Features:
- Skill-based learning paths
- Offline learning capabilities
- SCORM, AICC, xAPI support
- Virtual classroom and instructor-led training
- Real-time analytics
Cost: Starts at $4 per month per registered user.
5. Moodle
Moodle is an open-source learning platform designed to offer robust learning and development tools for corporations and educational institutions alike. Known for its customization abilities, it offers a variety of modules and plugins. It also supports a blended learning approach, including features like messaging for improved communication and quizzes for assessments.
Top 5 Features:
- Open-source with customizable modules
- Blended learning functionalities
- Messaging and notifications
- Mobile learning capabilities
- Wide range of integrations
Cost: Free to use, additional costs for hosting and customization.
6. LearnUpon
LearnUpon is designed to be a scalable and customizable LMS that suits businesses of all sizes. With features like webinars, a content library, and compliance training courses, it offers a complete learning solution for employee training programs. Its cloud-based nature ensures quick deployment and updates, and it offers Android and iOS mobile learning.
Top 5 Features:
- SCORM and xAPI compliant
- Webinar support
- On-demand content library
- Mobile app for learning on-the-go
- Real-time reporting and analytics
Cost: Starts at $599/month for up to 50 active users.
7. Cornerstone OnDemand
Cornerstone OnDemand is a talent management system that includes robust LMS capabilities. It offers extensive workflow and development tools to streamline the Learning & Development process. The system is mobile-friendly and offers a range of formats for learning materials, making it versatile for employee training needs.
Top 5 Features:
- Extensive workflow tools
- Personalized learning paths
- Compliance training modules
- Mobile learning support
- Real-time analytics
Cost: Custom pricing based on specific organizational needs.
8. SAP Litmos
SAP Litmos is a SaaS-based LMS designed with the user experience in mind. It offers a range of training courses and supports e-commerce functionalities. Its strong point is its scalability, making it suitable for small to large organizations. The LMS also features APIs for integrations and provides a mobile app for both Android and iOS devices.
Top 5 Features:
- Scalable architecture
- E-commerce support
- API for easy integrations
- Mobile learning support
- Real-time analytics and reporting
Cost: Starts at $6/user/month with a minimum of 150 users.
9. Bridge by Instructure
Bridge is an employee development platform that provides a unique blend of LMS and performance management tools. It offers features like career and skill development paths, peer-to-peer learning, and the ability to easily create and distribute training content. Its emphasis on the learner experience makes it stand out, and it supports both mobile learning and offline access to training materials.
Top 5 Features:
- Career and skill development paths
- Peer-to-peer social learning
- Offline learning capabilities
- Mobile app for Android and iOS
- Easy integrations with tools like Zoom
Cost: Custom pricing based on organizational needs.
The choice of an LMS or Learning & Development tool can vary depending on the unique needs and size of an organization. However, the tools listed above are some of the best learning solutions in the market, each offering a range of functionalities aimed at enriching the training and learning experience.
FAQs:
How many LMSs are there?
Hundreds of LMS platforms exist, each catering to different needs and industries.
What is the best employee training software?
TalentLMS and Docebo are among the top contenders for corporate training.
What is the best L&D tool for training?
For course creation, iSpring is popular. For hosting, Docebo or TalentLMS is recommended.
What are the best learning tools?
Tools like iSpring, Docebo, Zoom, and TalentLMS are widely considered some of the best.
What is the best L&D software?
The "best" depends on organizational needs, but Docebo and TalentLMS consistently rank high.
What are the top 10 tools for learning and development?
Docebo, TalentLMS, iSpring, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Udemy for Business, Adobe Captivate, Skillshare, Google Classroom, and Coursera for Business are among the top 10.
Previous
Cliff Weitzman
Cliff Weitzman is a dyslexia advocate and the CEO and founder of Speechify, the #1 text-to-speech app in the world, totaling over 100,000 5-star reviews and ranking first place in the App Store for the News & Magazines category. In 2017, Weitzman was named to the Forbes 30 under 30 list for his work making the internet more accessible to people with learning disabilities. Cliff Weitzman has been featured in EdSurge, Inc., PC Mag, Entrepreneur, Mashable, among other leading outlets.