Cloud-based computing is quickly becoming the new standard, especially in business environments. Today’s leading companies realize how technology is critical to gaining the competitive advantage, and cloud computing is at the forefront of corporate technology. When you consider how eLearning is implemented for effective and efficient employee training, using a cloud-based learning management system (LMS) is a thorough strategy that ensures maximum efficiency for your business team.
Understanding Learning Management Systems
Before discussing the benefits of cloud computing as part of your eLearning strategy, you should be familiar with learning management systems and their functions. An LMS is the platform that facilitates eLearning for both instructors and learners. Your administrators store and manage training content, and your employees access that educational material. There are many types of learning management systems ranging from highly complicated software programs to extremely streamlined applications.
What Is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is a system that relies on remote Internet servers for data storage, processing, and management, as opposed to traditional local servers or personal computers that were once the standard. There are many benefits to using the cloud, including remote access, data protection, easy maintenance, and increased storage space. A cloud-based, free learning management system is a powerful, convenient, and affordable way to train your employees. Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect:
Convenience
If your instructor is on vacation and is needs to upload urgent course information, cloud computing makes it possible for him or her to access the LMS and upload the data from any device at any time. Simultaneously, students or employees can access online courses without having to be on-site and can learn the material at the convenience of their schedule.
Security
Data stored in the cloud is not at risk of physical damage, unlike a personal computer that can be prone to hardware crashes and deleted disk drives. The cloud also offers exceptional encryption, so your data remains secure and private at all times. Besides protecting personal and sensitive information, a cloud-based LMS keeps communication between learners and instructors confidential, unlike other social media or email networks that can be infiltrated.
Cost
The startup cost for cloud-based learning management systems tends to be significantly lower than traditional ones. Instead of purchasing software or hardware, you simply sign up online and start creating your courses over the Internet. This straightforward deployment saves time and frees up your IT department to prioritize more complicated tasks. If you choose a cloud-based, free learning management system, the long-term costs to offering online courses can be budget friendly.
Storage
Unless your company or school has a surplus of servers available, cloud computing is going to allow substantially more data storage. Not only does cloud-based storage make things easier and cheaper for your staff, but it also ensures that your users will be able to access your course regardless of their hardware specs. Additionally, the cloud backs up all of your data so you never have to panic after an accidental delete.
Cloud Computing Is the Future
Though relatively new, cloud computing is clearly here to stay, especially considering that eLearning is finding its niche in all forms of education. According to this Forbes article on eLearning, “The U.S. Department of Education has found no evidence that online learning is qualitatively inferior to that obtained in a traditional classroom.”
If your business or academic institution doesn’t offer eLearning classes or training materials, now is the time to get started. If you’re relying on outdated technology, upgrade to a cloud-based training platform that ensures success. Choosing the right LMS is a critical step that must not be overlooked, so take your time. Test the ones that offer the most innovative technologies and see which platform is appropriate for your needs. Give your organization a head start today with cloud computing.