Employee engagement
7 things to consider when choosing a mobile-friendly LMS for successful implementation
So, you’ve decided mobile learning is the best direction for your organisation’s future Learning & Development. The next stage is to decide which LMS to introduce to make this possible. Previously, we’ve discussed how to form a solid mobile learning strategy, challenges you may face when developing that strategy, and now it’s time to focus on the implementation itself.
There is a wide range of factors to consider when implementing a mobile learning strategy and the LMS it’s going to sit on. From geographical flexibility to data and hardware requirements, here are our top things to bear in mind when choosing a mobile-friendly LMS for successful mobile learning implementation.
In organisations of any size, you will likely have employees who could be considered digital natives and others who will be digital sceptics. One of the realities of implementing mobile learning for the first time is that there will be some resistance. While there are some who will never take to mobile learning, the best way you can integrate as many of your workforce as possible into your new way of learning is to ensure the system is as easy to use as possible. User Experience (UX) is a vital component of this, so when choosing your mobile-friendly LMS, this should be one of the primary considerations.
Part of the UX considerations for your mobile-friendly LMS should be the continuity and consistency of the experience between desktop, mobile, and tablet. It is important to ensure that you are choosing an LMS that is adapted to different devices in a recognisable, logical manner.
For example, is the menu found on the same place on the screen? Are the same options available across devices? Does the search function work the same way? All of these things will ensure your learners have a consistent experience no matter the device they are using, which will make the implementation of strategy far easier as well as keeping engagement levels up throughout your workforce.
Another important part of implementing mobile learning in your organisation is choosing an LMS that allows your learners to begin one piece of eLearning on one device and continue it on another. Consider, for example, how Netflix works. If you begin watching a program on your TV, you can continue from the same place on a mobile or laptop straight away or any time in the future.
This feature is a must within any truly mobile-friendly LMS as it provides and promotes the flexibility that mobile learning aims to achieve. Modern learners are used to being able to pick up where they left off regardless of the device across a wide range of services. Implementation and uptake will be far easier and more widespread if this functionality is available.
With more and more of us working from home, remotely, or in the field, geographical requirements are incredibly important when implementing mobile learning. It is also worth considering this during technical implementation. For example, if you are looking to implement a mobile-friendly LMS across a wide range of offices or perhaps to learners who work internationally from HQ, it is vital that a good level of technical support is available for everyone.
Therefore, you should look to implement a mobile-friendly LMS with a strong customer service reputation. Flexibility isn’t just important for your workforce, it’s a highly important component of ongoing management of the system.
While we’re on the topic of geographical diversity within the workforce, it’s also worth considering the data requirements and internet connections of mobile devices. For example, an engineer who works in the field may not always have access to a good internet connection, so you should look into alternatives to data-rich eLearning content.
A good mobile-LMS will have data usage as a primary consideration and should, therefore, load quickly and efficiently even in areas of low internet or data. This is especially worth considering when you are deciding whether to opt for a bring your own device (BYOD) or supplied devices strategy for your implementation.
The adaptability of your chosen mobile-friendly LMS is a vital component of mobile learning success. If you choose to opt for a BYOD strategy, you need to ensure technical implementation across a wide range of devices is smooth, and your chosen LMS should support this. The technical side of things becomes a bit easier when you choose to supply the devices across your team(s) but this isn’t always possible, depending on budgets and the size of your workforce.
One of the most important factors in any mobile learning strategy is to allow for point-of-need and on-demand learning. Whether it is sales training just before a meeting or double checking the specifications for a particular type of boiler when you’re on the road, these types of learning really elevate your workplace training to the next level.
It’s important to choose an LMS that supports this type of learning and allows your employees to easily find the information they need quickly. This is where the eLearning content you are providing on your LMS also comes into play, as it needs to be succinct, easy to follow, and memorable. It’s worth considering working with an LMS supplier who can also create the eLearning content you need for your workforce.
When implementing a mobile learning strategy in your organisation, the LMS you choose can be the make or break factor. From the technical requirements to the personal needs of your employees, there are a lot of things to consider when making your choice. Ultimately, it all comes down to ease, usability, and flexibility for everyone involved in both the use and implementation of your system.
Claire is an enthusiastic and meticulous content writer whose passion is to support growth and continual learning for everyone.
