The 14 best LMS platforms for employee learning in 2025

Employee training has never been more critical to business success. Companies need effective ways to onboard new hires, upskill existing talent, and keep the entire workforce compliant. But many HR leaders struggle to deliver learning programs that are engaging, accessible, and aligned with company goals.

That's where learning management system (LMS) platforms come in. The right LMS makes it easy to create, deliver, and track employee training—all in one centralized hub. But with dozens of options on the market, how do you choose the best system for your needs?

In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about LMS software in 2025 and present the top learning management systems for your business. Whether you're new to online learning or looking to upgrade your current system, you'll come away with actionable insights to maximize training ROI.

What is an LMS platform?

An LMS, or learning management system, is a software application used to create, manage, and deliver eLearning courses and training programs. LMS platforms allow companies to:

• Build and organize training content in a central library
• Enroll employees in relevant courses based on their role or development needs
• Deliver training in engaging formats like videos, quizzes, and interactive modules
• Track learner progress, course completions, and assessment scores
• Generate reports to measure training effectiveness and identify skills gaps

While LMS systems got their start in academia, they've become an essential tool for businesses to efficiently train and upskill employees. Many systems now offer specialized features for corporate learning, such as gamification and social features to boost engagement, and mobile apps and offline access for on-the-go learning.

Having the right LMS platform is especially important for compliance training, which is often mandated by law or industry regulations. An LMS automates the process of assigning and tracking required courses, so you always have up-to-date records in case of an audit.

6 benefits of learning management system (LMS) platforms

Still wondering if your business really needs an employee learning management system? Here are six key benefits to consider:

1. Centralized training hub

An LMS gives you a single, centralized place to house all of your training content and resources. No more scattered slide decks, videos, and manuals. Employees always know where to go to find the information they need. 

Imagine onboarding a new sales rep. Instead of bombarding them with a barrage of emails and links, you can simply enroll them in a comprehensive "New hire sales training" course that walks them through everything they need to know, step by step.

2. Flexibility and accessibility

With an LMS, learning can happen anytime, anywhere. Employees can access training content 24/7 from their computer, tablet, or smartphone. This flexibility is crucial for engaging today's dispersed, digitally-savvy workforce. 

Think about a busy retail store manager who's constantly on the go. With mobile LMS access, they can complete a product knowledge course in between shifts, right from their phone. 

3. Cost-effective

Traditional instructor-led training can be expensive, especially when you factor in costs like classroom rentals, printed materials, and travel. LMS platforms allow you to create and deliver training entirely online, significantly reducing these costs. 

Let's say you need to train 500 employees across the country on a new compliance policy. With a learning management system, you can quickly create an online course and assign it to the relevant teams, avoiding the time and expense of flying trainers to each location.

4. Improved employee performance

An LMS makes it easy to deliver targeted, job-specific training that helps employees perform their best. You can create custom learning paths for different roles, departments, and skill levels to ensure everyone gets the knowledge they need to succeed. 

For example, a customer service team could have dedicated courses on product knowledge, communication skills, and conflict resolution. By completing this tailored training, agents will be better equipped to handle customer inquiries and resolve issues efficiently.

5. Actionable insights

Advanced LMS systems have robust reporting and analytics features that give you visibility into the impact of your training programs. You can track key metrics like course completions, assessment scores, learner engagement, and skills mastery. 

These insights allow you to measure training ROI, identify top performers, and pinpoint areas for improvement. For instance, if you see that a high percentage of learners are struggling with a particular module, you know you need to refine that content.

6. Enhanced employee engagement

The best learning management systems have features to make learning fun and engaging, like gamification, social sharing, and interactive content. This helps combat the boredom and lack of motivation that can plague traditional training programs. 

For example, employees can earn points and badges while completing their required training, turning a standard compliance course into an engaging learning experience.

The 14 best LMS platforms and tools

In this LMS comparison, we'll explore our top picks, each offering unique strengths for different organizational needs:

1. Rippling

Unlike traditional LMS providers, Rippling integrates learning management directly into its workforce platform. This makes it particularly effective for growing companies that want to automate their training programs.

Key features

• Automated course assignments based on employee attributes
• Pre-built compliance courses in multiple languages
• Built-in quizzes and assessments
• Mobile-friendly learning interface

Benefits

• Training synced with HR and payroll systems
• Compliance tied to time tracking
• Automated progress monitoring
• Self-service course creation

2. SAP SuccessFactors Learning

SAP's learning solution offers skills development capabilities and AI-powered recommendations for large enterprises.

Key features

• AI-driven skill recommendations
• Compliance tracking
• Third-party content integration

Benefits

• Deep skills analysis capabilities
• Personalized learning journeys
• Global learning delivery

3. Coassemble

Coassemble is a course creation platform with AI features for training content development. The platform includes template-based course building tools.

Key features

• AI-powered quiz generation
• Interactive template library
• SCORM-compatible exports

Benefits

• No coding skills required
• Detailed analytics tracking
• Enterprise-grade scalability

4. TalentLMS

A learning platform that combines course creation tools with basic learning management features. Their system focuses on quick setup and standard training delivery.

Key features

• AI-powered course generation tools
• Built-in video conferencing
• Customizable learning paths

Benefits

• Intuitive interface 
• Extensive integration options
• Available training analytics

5. Cornerstone

Cornerstone is an enterprise solution that emphasizes personalized development and compliance management. It generally supports large-scale training operations.

Key features

• AI-powered personalization engine
• VR training capabilities
• Multi-language support

Benefits

• Available analytics dashboard
• Automated compliance management
• Global workforce support

6. Absorb LMS

Absorb LMS is a learning management system with multi-audience training capabilities. The platform includes accessibility features and engagement tools.

Key features

• SCORM and HTML5 support
• Automated enrollment workflows
• Built-in eCommerce tools

Benefits

• Flexible deployment options
• Gamification capabilities
• Robust security certifications

7. Docebo

Docebo is an AI-powered platform that offers automated training delivery tools, along with content management functions.

Key features

• AI-powered content authoring
• Community-driven learning tools
• Flexible e-commerce solutions

Benefits

• Intuitive interface
• Data-driven learning insights
• Customizable learner experience

8. 360Learning

360Learning specializes in collaborative learning, enabling organizations to leverage internal expertise for training content creation.

Key features

• Interactive peer learning features
• Video coaching capabilities
• AI-powered collaboration

Benefits

• Rapid course deployment
• Reduced onboarding time
• Democratized content creation

9. Gusto Learn

Gusto Learn is a payroll-integrated LMS with compliance training modules and employee development features. It’s one of the numerous LMS systems for small businesses.

Key features

• State-specific compliance training modules
• Real-time course completion tracking
• Integration with popular training providers

Benefits

• Payroll and HR integration
• Streamlined compliance management
• Easy course assignment workflows

10. Paylocity Learning

This learning solution is connected to Paylocity's HR platform, with standard content management and training tools.

Key features

• Out-of-box content library
• SCORM/AICC content support
• Custom training creation tools

Benefits

• Direct HR system integration
• Built-in compliance tracking
• Automated progress monitoring

11. Learning Pool

A data-driven learning software that uses AI and machine learning to deliver personalized training experiences at scale.

Key features

• AI-powered skills analysis
• Smart campaign automation
• Predictive analytics dashboard

Benefits

• Good end-user support
• Real-time data insights
• Comprehensive security certifications

12. iSpring Learn

iSpring Learn is another LMS focused on mobile accessibility and offline learning capabilities, with course creation and delivery tools. 

Key features

• Built-in authoring tool integration
• Ready-made course library
• Intuitive course organization

Benefits

• Simplified course production
• Clear progress reporting
• Easy platform navigation

13. Totara Learn

An open-source, customizable enterprise LMS designed for large-scale training and compliance management.

Key features

• Open-code customization options
• Automated compliance tracking
• Extensive partner network

Benefits

• Scalable for large organizations
• Reduced administrative costs
• Global implementation support

14. Moodle

Moodle is an open-source learning platform that provides customizable features for educational institutions. Their system emphasizes collaborative learning and pedagogical tools.

Key features

• Course backup and restoration
• Built-in multimedia support
• Standard compliance (SCORM, IMS-LTI)

Benefits

• Regular security updates
• Extensive reporting tools
• Flexible deployment options

LMS platform trends to keep an eye on

As you evaluate potential LMS platforms, it's important to consider not just current capabilities, but also emerging trends that will shape the future of digital learning. Here are four key trends to watch:

Mobile learning

Mobile devices are now the primary means of internet access worldwide. Employees increasingly expect to be able to complete training on-the-go, from their smartphone or tablet. The best LMS tools have responsive content that automatically adapts to any screen size. Some even offer mobile apps with offline access, so learners can download content and complete courses without an internet connection.

Gamification & engagement

Gamification uses game-design elements like points, badges, and leaderboards to make learning addictive and fun. More LMS software are embracing gamification as a way to combat learner boredom and dropout. Look for an LMS that lets you incorporate game mechanics into your courses, as well as interactive elements like quizzes, polls, and simulations. The more engaged learners are, the better knowledge retention and behavior change you'll see.

Social learning

Social learning taps into our natural desire to learn from and collaborate with others. Increasingly, LMS platforms are adding social features that allow learners to interact and share knowledge. These might include discussion forums, content sharing and curation tools, or integrations with enterprise social networks. By enabling peer-to-peer learning, you can scale knowledge sharing and make learning feel less isolating.

Microlearning

Microlearning delivers short, focused bursts of content to learners, often in rich media formats like video. The bite-sized nature makes training easier to consume and apply. Many LMS platforms now allow you to create microlearning content natively or import it from third-party libraries. Consider using a learning management system with strong content management capabilities that make it easy to create, organize, and deliver microlearning.

4 features to look for in an LMS platform

With so many LMS options out there, how do you narrow down your shortlist? Here are four key features to look for:

1. User-friendly interface

Your LMS is only effective if employees actually use it. Look for a platform with a clean, intuitive interface that makes it easy for learners to find and consume content. The best platforms offer customizable branding to match your company's look and feel, personalized content recommendations based on role or interests, and support for different learning styles through various content formats. Most importantly, the interface should be accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.

2. Content management

A good LMS should make it simple to create and manage learning content at scale. Look for platforms with easy-to-use course authoring tools, support for different content types from videos to quizzes, and built-in assessment capabilities. Many platforms also offer pre-built content libraries, which can be especially helpful when you're just getting started or need to roll out common training programs quickly.

3. Integration options

Your LMS shouldn't operate in isolation. Look for platforms that connect with your other business tools, especially your HR system for employee data syncing. Good integration options help automate administrative tasks, keep information consistent across systems, and make the overall learning experience smoother for everyone.

4. Automation capabilities

A modern LMS should reduce manual work through automation. Look for features that automatically assign courses based on employee roles, send reminders for overdue training, and update completion records. This not only saves administrative time but also ensures no employee falls through the cracks with their required training.

Rippling: The #1 LMS platform for businesses of all sizes

While there are many excellent LMS platforms on the market, Rippling offers a unique advantage: a cloud-based learning management system that's fully integrated with your core HR and IT operations.

Rippling's LMS is part of its unified workforce platform, which means you can seamlessly manage all of your people operations in one place. From onboarding to offboarding and everything in between, Rippling automates the entire employee lifecycle.

For training specifically, Rippling offers an unmatched combination of content, features, and flexibility:

• Extensive pre-built course libraries on everything from compliance to management skills
• Intuitive tools to build custom SCORM and video courses, or import existing content
• Flexible learning paths to deliver the right training to the right people at the right time
• Customizable HRIS fields to automatically trigger course enrollments based on any employee attribute
• Advanced reporting to track learner progress, measure training ROI, and identify skill gaps

The real power of Rippling's LMS lies in its deep integration with the core employee record. Any information captured in the LMS—from course completions to quiz scores—automatically syncs back to the employee's profile. This gives you a single source of truth to inform decisions about promotions, succession planning, and more.

Rippling also stands out for its intuitive, people-centric design. Learners and admins alike will appreciate the clean interface, which puts training tools and content right at their fingertips. And with support for web and mobile learning, your people can access training wherever work takes them.

Whether you're a rapidly growing startup or an established enterprise, Rippling can help you build an employee learning program that delivers real business impact. 

LMS platforms FAQs

Which is the best LMS platform?

The best LMS platform depends on your organization's specific needs, size, and goals. While platforms like TalentLMS and Docebo offer solid features for basic training needs, solutions like Rippling provide deeper integration with HR systems and automated workflows. Consider factors like ease of use, content creation tools, and reporting capabilities. Take advantage of demos to ensure your chosen platform aligns with your requirements.

What is the most common LMS?

While many established learning management systems exist in the market, popularity shouldn't drive your decision. Traditional solutions focus solely on learning management, while modern platforms like Rippling integrate training with broader HR functions. Focus on finding a system that matches your specific needs, from content delivery to employee data management.

What makes a great LMS?

A great LMS delivers engaging learning experiences that drive employee performance and business results. Key attributes to look for include:

• Intuitive interface for both learners and admins
• Robust content management and creation tools
• Detailed reporting and analytics
• Mobile accessibility
• Integration with HR systems
• Customization and branding options

Perhaps most importantly, a great LMS has a dedicated support team behind it to help you make the most of the technology and overcome any obstacles.

This blog is based on information available to Rippling as of January 8, 2025.

Disclaimer: Rippling and its affiliates do not provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide or be relied on for tax, accounting, or legal advice. You should consult your own tax, accounting, and legal advisors before engaging in any related activities or transactions.