| So what are the differences between an LMS and an | | | | major roles of an LCMS are: |
| LCMS? | | | | A hub where Learning Content can be managed |
| Well a LMS is a computer package that can plan, in | | | | and administered and is easily retrieved ready for |
| some cases deliver, but more importantly manages | | | | dissemination. |
| learning events and learner achievements and in an | | | | As the System allows for multi users then |
| industry where reporting is a crucial part of the | | | | duplication of work is reduced, increasing speed of |
| process some form of structure is to be encouraged. | | | | development and distribution thereby increasing |
| LMS's can make life easier when you need quick | | | | efficiency and productivity. |
| access to assessment results or easy certification | | | | The LCMS does away with writing Content for each |
| processes or when you need to see how far through | | | | and every course that is to be presented, courses can |
| a qualification, skills programme etc. a learner is. | | | | now be adapted and re-used for different learner |
| Facilitators and Assessors can easily keep up to date | | | | groups and held at a central point for subject matter |
| with learner's progress and using the right system, | | | | experts to access, adapt and recycle. |
| should find that their administration time is reduced | | | | In conclusion, the costs of any Management System |
| giving them more time to do what they do best, teach. | | | | these days can run from a few hundred to several |
| In comparison a Learning Content Management | | | | thousand dollars so it would be prudent for any |
| System (LCMS) is designed to deal with Learning | | | | prospective purchaser to ensure that the product they |
| Content. It gives such persons as developers, learning | | | | are looking at is the one that will meet their needs. For |
| content authors and subject matter specialists a | | | | those looking to manage data regarding learners then |
| "forum", to create, edit, debate and recycle Learning | | | | a Learner Management System (LMS) would probably |
| Content. This means of developing content in a multi | | | | meet their requirements. Those who are looking to |
| user format reduces duplication of work and allows | | | | work with and reuse Content should look into the |
| experts an opportunity to discuss and improve their | | | | various Learning Content Management Systems |
| product, hopefully, to the benefit of their learners. The | | | | (LCMS) that are on the market. |