When discussing Learning Management Software (LMS) applications, Moodle is a household name with wide range use in large universities and businesses. It is a free to use, open source application with a large inventory of features and customization options. Moodle is built on the Plato inspired “social constructionist” learning model in which ideas are developed through interaction and discussion as opposed to simple passive transmission of information. This “active learning” is propagated with the help of message boards, forums, and quizzes that allow direct interaction between teachers, students, and peers.
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Moodle embodies well a lot of the principles that define what a LMS should be. Why then should you also investigate Moodle alternatives when considering potential LMS systems for your enterprise?
It all comes down to preference and fit. Different companies have slightly different needs. There are many different systems on the market that capture the same spirit of learning as Moodle but may offer additional convenience features as well.
One of the talking points is the challenge of managing open source software. Small businesses and enterprises may not have a dedicated IT team on hand to help implement and manage all of Moodle’s extensive open source features. Many alternatives come with dedicated customer support which eases the transition of implementation and keeps the system up to date and worry free over time.
While most of the listed alternatives do not come with a free to use license as does Moodle, a cost analysis may show that savings on IT costs balances out your bottom line. The feel and layout of different systems may also simply be worth the extra subscription cost to you. Simply put it is good to explore your options.
Without further delay, let’s get right into some of the Moodle alternatives.
Small Business
CSB Learning – This is an SaaS based LMS that focuses on social learning similar to Moodle. This is a solid learning platform that integrates well with CSB’s appurtenant goal and performance tracking software.
The cost is $6 per employee per month. There is an optional $1,000 implementation fee that includes added support and training.
Docebo – Another SaaS platform LMS platform. Docebo incorporates gamification and rewards as a way to engage users. A personalized dashboard provides progress tracking and active user feedback. This system has an attractive UI combined with an interesting list of features. Customer support is included as well.
The lowest tier plan starts at $2,300 per year for 50 active users, up to $6,000/year for up to 350 active users.
Feathercap – This Saas has a simply beautiful modern UI. If aesthetics are valued by your user base this is certainly one to check out. Additionally, mobile access on phones and tablets is included. The application has many templates for quick and easy creation of content.
Plans range from $69 per month for 25 users, a mid tier range of $199 for 100 users, and up to $899 for 2,000 users.
Large Business Moodle Alternatives
Latitude Learning – A large scale LMS in an SaaS format. The application Includes certifications, integrations with supporting software such as GoToMeeting, and also allows collaboration on whiteboards.
There is a free version up to 100 users. $1,000 per month for 250 users, $9,000 for up to 3,000 users, continues in tiers up to $175,000 for 100,000 users.
Totara – This Moodle alternative is an open source system at its core, but they have a SaaS web based subscription format as well. Totara offers customer support as well as integrated update patches.
You are likely to find the full range of options that you would with Moodle. Social learning, quizzes, assignment certifications, easy course management options.
Totara starts at a base price of $2,950 for up to 500 users, and can support up to 250,000 users at $29,950 per year.
Educational Oriented
Claroline – This is an open source system, but relatively easy to deploy. Many languages are supported and includes a wide range of generic features. Suitable for educational settings looking for a simple reliable system.
Openelms – This is another education geared system that provides some interesting features such as a virtual 3d classroom.
Conclusion
This is by no means a comprehensive list of the different LMS systems on the market, but rather a means of showing viable Moodle alternatives.
The main points to remember when shopping around for an LMS is the size of your user base, level of customer support desired, and required customization options.
Good luck, and happy learning.