In its original sense, this term means systems in which training data is managed. From the training product to the event with trainer and room to the bookings of participants and their participation – whether successful or not. This primarily meant face-to-face training, but digital forms of learning were not explicitly excluded. Training management systems are very closely related to event systems in the hotel and trade fair industry. There, too, it’s about dates, locations/rooms and equipment.

This is where the broader name Training Resource Management System comes from. This designation indicates the special importance of resource management (trainers, rooms and technical equipment) in the context of face-to-face training.

A TMS therefore also focuses on the administrative processes that are necessary to organize (in-person) training and also logistically bring together the required resources at the right time and in the right place.

The use of the term training management system in German-speaking countries has now largely been replaced by the English term “LMS” – the “learning management system”.

And cimoio was created as a training management system more than twenty years ago.

This term is – at least in the German language area – still in use and is similarly vague in its meaning as training management and LMS – a system to handle seminars. In discussions  with customers, the definition of what a seminar is, often needs to be agreed upon with the customer: is it the structural idea of a training – called training product in cimoio – or the specific execution of it – in cimoio called training event? The word seminar has various meanings, in addition to be used differently depending on region or dialect.

In the end, seminar management for most customers means a system to manage seminars, no matter on which level. Even less than with the term training (resource) management system does not become clear, what scope of functionality is meant by it.

The term Learning Management System (LMS) derives from the rise of digital trainings, e-learnings, web-based trainings (WBTs).

Digital contents can have different formats such as videos, documents such as pdf files, or learning unites with SCORM. What they have in common is that, once provided, any number of participants can use and learn the same content, independent of their location.

This is a huge difference to face-to-face trainings which at least need a trainer and room, maybe more resources and equipment. Additionally, the trainer and all participants need to be in the same location.

Therefore, the main applications for an LMS are processes for managing digital content, starting with the distribution of digital formats as well as guaranteeing access for learners through digital channels. Logistical issues and administrative processes for face-to-face trainings in classroom settings are secondary.

With just a little technical effort, LMSs can be adapted to some of the requirements for face-to-face trainings. Thus, the term LMS has started to replace the term TMS. Even though requirements are different, some are overlapping, leading to unclear usages of both terms within marketing. Technical requirements for LMS are quite lower than for TMS, explaining the significant number of suppliers for LMS worldwide.

This means for every interested person to assess whether a LMS is really the best option or if in fact a TMS is needed.

The team Learning Experience Platform (LXP) is relatively new and used for learning platforms with a different focus. While an TMS focuses mainly on administrative tasks and an LMS on the distribution of digital content, an LXP chances the emphasize on learners’ user experience. In theory, customers can experience self-directed learning with a simply access to digital content – like digital platforms like Amazon Prime, Netflix, or Disney+.

However, in reality, users are only partly self-directed. In corporate learning environments, HR usually directs learners to what is regarded useful and necessary, based on users’ skills, learning behaviors, or position within the organization.

Advantages of LXPs are positive user experiences. However, many problems can arise through a algorithm based logic trying to evaluate behavior and data to form individual recommendations.

An LXP is not in competition with TMSs or LMSs but can offer a different point of view with a stronger focus on individual users.

cimoio is everything at once!

cimoio is TMS on the highest level: cimoio supports all processes regarding face-to-face trainings. Read on for more details.

cimoio is LMS in perfection: cimoio delivers whichever digital content you want to present to your customers. Read on for more details.

cimoio is LXP: cimoio makes it easy for you and your customers to gain access to mandatory trainings and desired learning units. Read on for more details.

And most of all, cimoio is everything at once: the perfect example are our learning plans where classroom trainings meet digital contents to form complex training plans consisting of face-to-face unites and remote or individual learning nuggets.