how Web-based Learning Management Systems Used In Partner Support Settings

In many ways, e-learning as a technology and an industry has matured. Today we look at how web-based learning management systems can be and are used as part of a partner support function in a company or organization. What is a learning management system? Learning Management Systems (LMS) are web-based software application platforms used to plan, implement and evaluate learning processes related to online and offline training management and performance management. LMSs provide a way for instructors to create and deliver content, monitor student participation, and evaluate student performance. They also provide students with the opportunity to use interactive features such as threaded discussions, web conferencing, discussion boards, and other means of communication. Where and why are learning management systems used in partner support settings? LMSs are used in business-to-business, high-process, value-added, and technology-oriented business environments in industries such as telecommunications, advanced electronic technology, semiconductor manufacturing, insurance, banking, medical products, and more. Learning management systems are used in partner support settings because they can be a cost-effective solution to providing performance support for a company's products and services. In some ways, partner support operations can be similar to customer support setups, but they have some distinct differences. More often than not, and by its very nature, a partner distribution channel exists because the partner adds value to the products and services your company offers. Partner support operations may be more concerned with tactical distribution or other issues because they are responsible for providing their part of the value chain in delivering your product or service. Partners take a different route with the end users of the product. Partners need the flexibility to deliver information and support customer needs, but in a way that supports and amplifies the value their company brings to the partner channel. Why is it cost-effective to use an LMS for your company's partner support operations? Learning management systems have many features that can be used in partner support organizations. A good LMS will allow you to create multiple partner sites that partners themselves can customize to meet the needs of the end customer. Each partner can have their own look and feel with a wide range of options to deliver their unique added value to the product or service. Learning management systems can be used to create a library of custom online courses that demonstrate how to use products and services. These courses can easily be updated to offer information/services that are unique to the affiliate product contribution. They can have the same look and feel as partner sites to maintain the brand experience. The course can be updated at will, so you don't pay to print new product manuals and support manuals every three months. LMS systems can be used to track and monitor your partner's activities instead of using a bunch of spreadsheets. This is very effective in situations where partners need to be certified to use your products and services. The learning management system can be set up to notify a partner when their certification is about to expire with an email notification so they can re-certify your product. The partner organizations themselves can be configured into a hierarchy within the learning management system that can be used to manage the partner distribution channel. What other functions in learning management systems can be used for the partner support function? A well-designed LMS comes with a help desk feature that can be used for 24/7 customer support for partners and end users. Learning management systems can have integrated web conferencing technology that can be used in a number of ways to support partners and end customers, such as: · synchronous training used in product implementation; · A web conference on the new feature set that can be archived for later viewing; · real, instant tech support with share your desktop so your techs can step in and fix any issues · and more. LMSs can have a built-in survey tool that allows you to poll your partners and end customers for results stored in the LMS database for later use. Learning management systems may have a single sign-on/e-commerce registration feature that can be used to sell additional features. LMSs may also have additional event management/seminar logistics applications that can help you manage training for external and local partners and end users. Each individual partner campus that is created can have its own reference area for materials to help complement the content of the online course. A company can realize effective resource planning and substantial cost savings using learning management systems in partner support settings. The support offered through learning management system functionality can go a long way in strengthening the relationship between a company and its distribution channel partner and will have a direct impact on both organizations' bottom lines. Using a learning management system, one or two partner channel managers or business development managers can manage and manage thousands of partner firms at significantly lower costs with the ability to provide precise support requirements tailored to the individual needs of that partner. In conclusion, web-based learning management systems can be a very useful and cost-effective way to manage a company's partner support function.