Are you preparing to launch your new learning management system (LMS) in your organization? If so, read on to learn how to make the most of this exciting opportunity. Of course, the best way to launch your LMS will depend on your specific circumstances.

However, below are some universal tips that will help make the process as smooth and productive as possible and will help reduce costly mistakes down the line.

1. Define Your Objectives

Before you can successfully launch a new LMS, you’ll need to define the objectives of the system and determine how it will benefit the business and its people.

First, what is the purpose of this LMS? Will it be used for training purposes only, or will it also be used for digital transformation, content creation and distribution, and so on? Knowing the answer to this question will help you decide which features should be considered a priority.

Second, what does success look like for the company after launching an LMS? What metrics would show that employees have successfully adopted and used this tool?

2. Create a Timeline

There are a few distinct steps to take when launching a new LMS, and it’s important that you have a defined timeline to stay on track.

To do this, follow these three steps:

1. Create a project timeline.
2. Set priorities for each task.
3. Find any dependencies for the tasks.

Once you have each task broken down, add them all into your timeline. You may also consider using a project management tool to stay organized and on track. This way, you can track which tasks need to be done and when, which will help ensure that nothing slips through the cracks.

3. Get Buy-in From Key Stakeholders

Getting buy-in from key stakeholders for a new LMS can be a challenge. The best way to do this? Be prepared!

Think about what you will say in advance, aim to answer any questions they might have, and show them the benefits of investing in your idea.

Start by meeting with key stakeholders one on one, getting their input on the project, and gathering their thoughts. Then meet with them as a group and present the plan for the program or system.

Make sure they know what they’re getting into before they sign off on it: If they don’t want to be involved in the LMS’ deployment, that’s okay, but let them know how it will affect the company as a whole, so there are no surprises down the road when you need their support again.

4. Train Your Team

It’s critical to train learners on how to use a new LMS before launching it, but doing so can be daunting. Follow these five steps to get started:

1. Prepare an introductory video for everyone in the company so they understand the goals of the LMS.
2. Send an email with links to training videos and other resources that will help people use their time wisely on learning tasks.
3. Deliver in-person training sessions at various times during the day so people can attend when it works best for them.
4. Ask employees what’s been working well for them and encourage them to share their ideas with others.
5. Encourage employees to share any feedback they have on the system with management, even if it’s negative feedback or constructive criticism.

5. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

Communicating about a new LMS’s launch can be difficult, but it’s important not to keep any information from employees.

Make sure you communicate:

• The launch date.
• What the system will do.
• What it won’t do.
• What’s in it for them and how they will benefit.
• How they’ll know if they need to use it.
• How they’ll sign up for training.

Communication is key when launching a new system. Not only will it help you with any initial questions or concerns, but it will also help you gauge how well employees understand and accept the change.

6. Launch and Monitor

Some things to consider once the launch has happened and you move into the monitoring stage: Launch and monitor the system until it’s running smoothly; figure out what new or other content needs to be added or changed for the system to work as intended; add that content; monitor engagement and uptake, then make changes when necessary.

Launching and monitoring a new LMS can seem like a daunting task. By following these steps and keeping a close eye on the system, the process will run smoothly.

How To Decide Which LMS Is Right For You

When deciding which LMS is best for you, it’s helpful to consider these four factors:

• Cost.
• Ease of use.
• Functionality.
• Vendor support.

Once you have a shortlist of vendors, it’s worth checking out the free LMS trial period offered by each vendor that you’re interested in so that you can see if the platform has all the features and functionality that you need, and if it is easy enough for your employees to navigate and learn from.

Keep the Conversation Going

Encouraging an open exchange will help you improve the user experience with your LMS for future employees and even reduce turnover as a result.