6 steps of learning platform implementation.

Implementing a new learning platform is a daunting time for many. Whether you’re switching providers or getting your first platform, there’s a lot to consider before making the move. So, in this article, we want to share with you the steps we recommend for a smooth learning platform implementation.

1. Choosing your platform

The learning platform market is a particularly crowded one, and the number of vendors shows no sign of slowing down. In fact, in their 2022 report, industry analysts, Fosway, have observed an increase in new vendors entering the market.

So, when it comes to choosing a platform, the sheer volume of choice can feel overwhelming. To overcome this, you must hone in on what your organisation and learners need. Consider elements such as user interface and experience, accessibility, administrative support, reporting and integrations with your other tech platforms.

2. Getting to know your chosen provider

Here at Think Learning we call this phase ‘discovery’. And it’s our chance to learn all about you.

Your needs.

Your wants.

Your vision.

The learning platform you choose should be personalised and tailored to your organisation’s needs. This may mean customising the platform or developing add-ons to make the platform work in the way you need it to.

Throughout the discovery phase, your provider should also devise a step-by-step action plan. This will take you from this discovery meeting, all the way through your learning platform implementation, launch and beyond.

3. Designing your platform

First impressions count, right? So, it’s no surprise that getting your platform design right is critical for its long-term success.

At this stage of the implementation process, your provider will work with you to customise your platform to suit your needs. And this doesn’t just mean installing your colour schemes and fonts, it also considers things such as the user journey and navigation.

For example, you’ll want to consider the process a learner will follow to access learning, and naming conventions used throughout the platform.

4. Integrating platforms

You want your new platform to be easy to use, for both learners and admins alike. So at this stage of implementation, your provider will integrate your platform with the rest of your tech stack as required. For example, you might want your HR platform to integrate seamlessly with your LMS.

Or you might want to opt for single-sign-on (SSO) with your new platform. Your chosen provider can outline all the possibilities and help you bring them to life.

5. Populating your platform and training

It’s time to learn and get your hands dirty. Your provider will help with almost everything during your learning platform implementation, including migrating your content, learners, and everything else to your new platform.

But at Think Learning, we choose to provide training alongside this step, allowing you to apply your new skills and practice them straight away!

This is also a great time to clear out any legacy data you no longer need. In many instances it is a great idea to retain data to demonstrate improvement and progress, but sometimes L&D can become data hoarders. Make sure everything you’re transferring to your new learning platform is absolutely essential for your future success. If it’s not, don’t clutter your new platform with it!

6. Platform launch

Now it’s time to unleash your platform to the world and start using it to its full potential. Sometimes this stage feels like more work than all the others combined.

You’ll have a wide variety of people accessing your platform, all with different objectives. And as such, all these people will have different questions too!

But the truth is, if you thoroughly plan the steps above, you will minimise the volume of and have the answers to any questions. Your learning platform provider will also be on hand throughout this step, to help with any teething problems you may have.

And it doesn’t stop there…

Your learning platform isn’t a static object. Over time it will grow and change. As your people use it and input their own user generated content, or as you add new resources, the platform will continue to expand. As an L&D team, you need to dedicate resources to keeping this platform alive and creating a place where your people actually want to spend time.

So, now you’re armed with these 6 steps to success, why not get in touch with the team here at Think Learning? We’re ready to show you how you can do more with your LMS.