How do you train your partners and non-payroll employees? Is a Classroom-only approach working for you? Is to enough to drive motivation as well as competitive targets? If you are unsure of the ROI of this training approach, then it is a good idea of assessing the benefits of an External Learning Management System for increased training benefits and eventually – increased ROI.

Modern Learning Management Systems (LMSs) are more than just Content Delivery platforms. LMS is utilized for effective content delivery, as well as appropriate measurement of workplace training programs. For external workforce, training can be targeted for dealers, channel distribution partners, suppliers, resellers, franchisees, and even end-customers. Global Organizations are utilizing online learning platforms as a significant tool to effectively train their partners on skills training, corporate learning, policy training and so on. Helping organizations gain the maximum out of external LMS, is the fact that technological advancements have improved the functionality of LMS through the blend of formal and experiential learning. This improves the quality of training and helps organizations gain maximum ROI.

New age technologies have led to newer features for the extended LMS.

Extended LMS for Increased reach

One of the most crucial features of an extended LMS is the ability to access courses via a powerful distribution channel and an online learning platform. A robust distribution channel allows disseminating content in a way that allows learners to access courses at their own pace of time and location.

Extended LMS for Increased Learning Uptake

Using an intuitive LMS interface is important to ensure a maximum Return On Investment from a workplace training program. Few online learning platforms use a single-page style while others use a ribbon-style to reflect courses page-by-page.

Extended LMS for Increased ROI Design Analytical Reports

The effectiveness of an extended LMS is measured by data analytics reports through employee engagement and performance assessment. As a result, an LMS helps you know your external workforce including consumers, suppliers, and partners performing in the training programs.

Extended LMS for a Global Audience:

When employees are spread across different demographics, they need to undergo training while on the go. Therefore, it is important for extended enterprise LMS to be mobile-friendly, providing learning anytime and anywhere as per the convenience of different learners.

In addition to implementation, it is important to support the training endeavor through multiple channels:

• When designing learning curriculum, it is essential to make sure that learning is tailored to individual needs. Different types of courses can be uploaded to the LMS as per different job functions of employees leading to a personalized learning experience.
• It is crucial to market the entire extended online learning program. Advantages of continuous learning via extended LMS can be marketed through well-designed mailers, brochures and more.
• Setting up a trial session using online learning platform is also an effective way to ensure that training is aligned well with the customized needs of learners. Using an LMS, training is imparted to internal as well as external personnel which includes supply partners, consumers, resellers and so on.
• To boost motivation among the employees, the learning can be gamified to give it an element of competition. Multiple rounds between different groups can be held and winners can be rewarded with badges and prizes.

The most important benefit of a an extended LMS is that organizations can manage their external personnel in a better and more efficient manner. By increased scope of training, they can increase profits and a better work environment—within and beyond the confines of the organization.

Suggested further reading: Changing The Learning Landscape Through Enterprise LMS For Extended Workforce