Affordable LMS suggestions

Technology and Tools
1

I’ve secured limited budget approval for an LMS, though funds are tight. I understand we won’t be getting all the bells and whistles. Initially, I need basic SCORM compatibility, with a future goal of finding a user-friendly platform that doesn’t require constant IT support.

With 120 end users and an annual budget of around $3k, our options are limited. However, we need something straightforward, capable of SCORM import, SSO (SAML2) capable, and with no setup fee. Integration with Teams would be a significant bonus.

Here’s a brief rundown of our shortlist:

  1. Coassemble: Fits within our budget, and course creation seems straightforward. Still assessing it during the trial phase.
  2. EdApp: Mobile-focused design may not align with our desktop-centric user base. The designer interface feels somewhat convoluted for basic tasks.
  3. TalentLMS: Offers an array of features, but reviews suggest it may feel outdated and some features might not work seamlessly.

Interestingly, it appears there’s a price divide for platforms catering to our scale: either around $3k annually or $10k+. Some options exceeded our expectations in terms of cost, like Absorb, which quoted $13k annually plus a hefty setup fee.

I’m open to feedback on the platforms in our shortlist and any other suggestions within our budget that offer a reasonable user experience.

(Note: I’m currently not considering self-hosted/open-source/Wordpress solutions due to time constraints.)

2 Likes
2

Check out Skill Lake.
Their prices are quite affordable and you can even customize it to your needs and preferences.

1 Like
3

@Gillian This is right. Been using Skill Lake for a while and I can totally recommend.

4

My suggestion would be to opt for the DomainRacer Tutor LMS software.

5

One suggestion is to go with TalentLMS. Despite some reviews suggesting it may feel outdated, my experience with it has been largely positive. TalentLMS offers a straightforward and user-friendly interface, making it easy to import SCORM content and manage courses without needing constant IT support. The platform’s SSO capability via SAML2 simplifies user access, and its integration with Microsoft Teams enhances collaboration and communication, which is a significant bonus. While some features might not be cutting-edge, the overall functionality and ease of use make it a solid choice within your budget constraints, ensuring you get a reliable LMS without exceeding your financial limits.