Learning Management Systems

From the e-Learning Centre (http://www.e-learningcentre.co.uk/guide2elearning/1-1/1-1-3.htm)

A Learning Management System (or LMS) is software that launches content and manages, tracks and reports on employees' learning. The functionality of LMSs varies from basic training management systems to sophisticated enterprise-wide learning management systems that include competency management.

The article also tackles the question "Do I need an LMS?"

An LMS is basically a tracking system for student performance and managing content.

With this definition, is it necessary to have one from the beginning of implementing your eLearning strategy, from the standpoint of small organizations and public schools in the Philippines ?

My safe answer is a conditional no. A straight answer is not yet.

An LMS is good to have but not necessary. The main objective of implementing eLearning is LEARNING. Having an LMS does not guarantee learning. Concentrate on the learning aspect of eLearning first. When you have that, the rest is details.

Can we live without LMS? Definitely. It is like asking, can you live without a mobile phone? Without a mobile phone, you still can communicate through a regular telephone, though mail or face-to-face. But having a mobile phone makes communiation easier. In developing an eLearning strategy, an LMS should not be the main concern. However, it must always be included in your long term plans. Initially, an LMS will not be needed. But as your eLearning program develops, your proficiency improve, an LMS is a natural next step.

In any eLearning program, be it for a hundred people or a thousand, the primary concern should always be learning. An LMS should be secondary. Only after you are sure that your eLearning courses are effective in terms of content, interactivity and responsiveness to your learning needs should you move to the next phase. And that would be an LMS.