Training and development is a very important aspect in all business models despite the industry they are operating in. While training and development strategies are recognized by large enterprises, it seems that a majority of small businesses and startups are still not reaping the benefits of the newest trends in training – eLearning.
Those that do prefer a Tin Can Compliant Learning Management System (LMS) over other solutions. This is mainly because it is a flexible solution. Besides, it can help a lot with training and improving the experience of the hires who stand behind innovative products or services. So, let’s see what a Tin Can Compliant LMS is, and why it is a preferred choice for startups and small businesses.
What is a Tin Can Compliant LMS
The Tin Can API is a software specification integrated in the Learning Management System software, just like SCORM. The SCORM specification is very limited as it records just some data, such as course progression and test scores. On the other hand, Tin Can API records the entire learning experience both within the course and outside of it. This is why the Tin Can compliant LMS is slowly pushing out the SCORM compliant one out of the picture in the eLearning industry.
The data collected with the Tin Can compliant LMS provides more actionable insights. This is because every action that a course participant takes, gets recorded in the learning record store (LRS) in the form of a statement. Thanks to this simple form of statements, noun – verb – object, the Tin Can based LMS allows different systems to communicate.
This allows recording the learning experience that happens outside the LMS which is incredibly important for companies. Course authors can specify points in the course where they want data to be collected.
Besides the features that SCORM compliant LMSs offer, Tin Can API has these ones:
- Transitioning from platform to platform
- Tack performance in the real world
- Record experiences in simulations and games
- Keep track of course goals and learning strategies
- Track and record learning experiences outside the web browser and offline
- Record experiences in mobile apps
- Extended control over course materials
- Good authorization protocols for enhanced security
- Benefits of Tin Can Compliant LMS
Since modern learners have many learning instances that can’t be tracked with SCORM based LMSs, this solution automatically became obsolete for startups that are, by their definition, innovative businesses. In order to capture this new world learner’s journey, one has to be able to track as many activities as possible. This is where the Tin Can compliant LMS can excel. Here are the benefits of using the Tin Can based LMS. You will notice that they are derivatives of Tin Can API features.
Recording learning experiences from different learning scenarios becomes limitless. Learning scenarios can be very different in modern settings. The Tin Can based LMS is very versatile because it can record offline data related to:
- Informal learning
- Blended learning scenarios
- Adaptive learning
- Games and simulations
Recording learning activities offline and outside the web browser. This feature enabled young organizations to record activities on the go. This is very important because employees use their smartphones and tablets throughout the day and, very often, they use mobile devices to carry out training courses.
LRS renders LMS versatile. With the Tin Can compliant LMS, employees can start, continue, and finish their courses on different devices. With an LRS, their progress won’t be lost in the transition. This perk made eLearning a truly mobile solution.
Better control over course and content creation. With this type of LMS you will have the opportunity to not only be able to create courses with a browser-based app, but also to develop and integrate it on a platform that your company prefers. The Tin Can API will still continue recording activities, no matter which platform you and your employees are using.
Companies can now also work outside the LMS. You will be able to utilize courses that can collect information from different servers, even if they are not integrated into the LMS. This way, the training will be more effective, as will be the overall educational experience.
Tracking all activities gives you insight into precise and detailed data. In order to make your training more efficient, the Tin Can compliant LMS will provide you with rich reports generated from the big data collected by the Tin Can API.
How Startups Benefit from Tin Compliant LMSs
A startup business model is very sensitive in its early stages. Adopting the latest solutions from the eLearning industry can ensure a bright future for them. Now that you are familiar with the features and benefits of the Tin Can compliant LMS, let’s see how startups can reap these benefits.
Better customer service and happier clients. It is very common for employees in startups to have very limited experience and knowledge in customer service. With Tin Can powered LMSs, you can help your employees enhance their knowledge on this subject. You can then use analytic tools to compare the efficiency before and after the course is taken and passed.
Offer employees the opportunity to challenge themselves. In the early days of your business, it is wise to devise a motivational strategy. Especially in the startup scenario when employees often have to work overtime. Offering courses based on gamification methods can help employees raise their energy levels and still gain practical knowledge.
Identify pain points. With powerful analytic and reporting tools and built in LMSs, you will be able to identify which course material or module is under-performing. And then change it to increase its efficiency. Besides, you can identify what type of learning happens outside your LMS software the most, so that you can modify your courses to make them more interesting for your employees.
Compliance Training. For startups, it is very important to abide to the rules and regulations. With Tin Can powered LMSs, you can make sure that everyone enrolls in compliance training even if the resources are external.
As you can see, the versatility of an LMS powered by the Tin Can API is what makes it very attractive for startups. It helps employees stay updated with the changes in the legislation framework, motivate them to continue their good work and quickly introduce them to new concepts of the market you are trying to penetrate.