Overview
Learning and development (L&D) software is, increasingly, a means of delivering training (as well as merely tracking it). Improved internet connectivity speeds and software capabilities mean training can increasingly be delivered on-screen, often using a mobile device.
As part of the selection process for L&D software, you need to consider how your staff will access the L&D service. For example, if you want them to use a mobile device, is this something you will provide? If it needs to be accessed on a desktop, is there one they can use in-branch? You need to be careful if asking staff to use their own device to access training that they can do so during ‘work time’, and that the application works across all platforms, devices and screen sizes.
Critical functions
You'll probably want your L&D software to deliver compliance training like health & safety or fire safety. Many have these modules built in and ready to deploy, but check before you buy as quality varies. Make sure you’re clear on what training your teams will need, but look for a system that has room to grow as your needs evolve. Tracking acceptance of critical policies (e.g. with a ‘tick to confirm you have read and understood’ box) is an important function of L&D software. This can be especially helpful when reporting on compliance across a large group.
L&D software should be able to track training that happens ‘offline’ (e.g. in a classroom), or that is delivered by other systems. It may be possible to migrate or incorporate courses from one training system / provider to another; if you've already invested in developing bespoke content, make sure you new provider can incorporate it into their platform.
Important integrations
It will make life much easier if your L&D software integrates with your employee relations system, so records are kept in sync.
If training is to be delivered on a mobile device, internet connectivity will need to be considered to ensure course content and employee records are kept up to date.
Users
Employees
Managers
L&D / HR team
Possibly, external training providers (including their course material into your system)
