What Makes a Great LMS? A Look Behind the Scenes
Learning Management Systems (LMS) have become a crucial part of modern businesses, but not all systems are created equal. As companies adopt more digital and remote workforces, having the right LMS on your side can be a game-changer—not just for training, but for supporting employees through change, like rolling out new software, processes or tools. By reducing the need for manual support or workshops, an effective LMS let’s employees learn on their own terms.
So, what exactly makes an LMS stand out, and how do you choose one that will truly benefit your team?
We’ve spent a fair bit of time refining what works in an LMS at Hummingbird, both for our clients and ourselves. Here’s a look at what makes a great LMS, from the core features that should be non-negotiable to some practical insights we’ve picked up along the way.Todd Whaley, CEO
Simplicity Meets Functionality
The best LMS isn’t just easy to use – it’s one your team wants to use.
If employees can log in and navigate without frustration, they’ll actually use it. When adjusting to new systems, the last thing teams need is a confusing learning platform. But simplicity doesn’t have to mean sacrificing features. A great LMS should be intuitive, providing quick access to key functions like tracking progress, enrolling in courses, or updating profiles. Features like a clean dashboard, simple course layouts, and clear progress bars help employees jump in and get to work, while the system adapts to their needs, not the other way around.
Customisation That Fits Your Needs
Businesses are unique, and their learning content should reflect that. Generic systems that don’t allow for customisation can become a barrier to getting the most out of your training programs. Look for an LMS that offers personalisation in both design and content. From custom branding to creating learning paths based on a user role or team, an adaptable system ensures that your employees get the most relevant and engaging experience. Our very own LMS content is often broken down into specific roles or departments, ensuring that each learner receives the most relevant training to their daily responsibilities and skill development needs. This kind of targeted approach boosts engagement, as employees clearly see how their learning connects to their work.
Mobile Friendly
Learning needs to move with people. With remote work, hybrid setups and flexible schedules, employees aren’t glued to their desk anymore. If your LMS doesn’t have the capability of working smoothly on a phone, it’s already behind. Being able to access training on a mobile device isn’t just a perk – it’s expected.
Having the option of squeezing in a module during their commute, brushing up on some processes while grabbing coffee, or catching up on training from the couch, learning should feel effortless. A mobile friendly LMS makes that possible. Just seamless access to the info they need, wherever they are.
Making Learning Stick
While features like mobile accessibility and user interface are important, the real star is the content itself. Is it just there to be crammed in and tick a box, or is it designed with the intention of making knowledge actually stick?
What takes an LMS’ content from good to great are features like gamification, micro-learning modules, and interactive elements. Learning on the job is often the most effective way to retain knowledge, which is why we’ve included innovative features like personalised learning paths, interactive multi-media content and gamified elements such as digital badges upon course completion. As John, our LMS Analyst explains, “We understand that one size doesn’t fit all, so our content is customised to meet clients’ needs. We’ve also consistently listened to user feedback, implementing updates that enhance functionality & address evolving needs.”
At Hummingbird, we’re proud to provide a system that not only tracks progress, but also fosters an engaging learning environment where employees actually feel motivated to keep improving. By continuously adapting to feedback and refining our approach, we ensure that learning is always relevant, engaging and impactful.
Final Thoughts
A great LMS is a key player in supporting your team through learning new tools, processes, onboarding new hires, or anything in between. It’s not just about ticking boxes, it’s about making sure employees have the right resources at the right time. At Hummingbird, we focus on improving our LMS consistently to make learning as seamless, relevant, and as useful as possible — so your team can focus less on figuring out how to use the system, and more on building the skills they need.
About the Author: Todd Whaley
For over 30 years I have been fortunate to enjoy an extensive international career in senior executive roles. I consider myself a charismatic leader whose career has been focused on building business value through the development and introduction of technology.