Cloud-based learning management system (LMS): What it is and 10 best solutions

Strong employee training is critical to get your team members fully productive and confident in the work they’re doing. But between compliance requirements, onboarding new hires, and upskilling your workforce, the right learning management system software can make the difference between a productive team and one struggling to keep up.

The problem? Most organizations are stuck with clunky, outdated training platforms that require IT support for every update, don't work on mobile devices, and can't scale as the business grows. Traditional learning management systems weren't built for today's distributed, fast-moving workplace.

Cloud-based learning management systems solve these problems. They give your employees access to training anywhere, scale effortlessly as you grow, and eliminate the IT headaches of maintaining on-premise software.

This guide breaks down the best cloud-based LMS solutions for 2025, from enterprise platforms like Workday to the best LMS for small business needs. We'll show you what features matter, how to choose the right platform, and why companies are moving away from traditional corporate learning management systems to modern, cloud-based alternatives.

What is a cloud-based LMS?

A cloud-based learning management system is software that lets organizations create, manage, and track employee training programs online. Instead of installing software on local servers, everything runs in the cloud — accessible from any device with an internet connection.

The key difference from traditional systems? Your employees can access training from their phones during commutes, from home on weekends, or at the office on their laptops. No IT installation required. No server maintenance. No software updates to manage.

This flexibility means better completion rates for compliance training, easier onboarding for new hires, and fewer IT headaches for your team. Cloud-based learning content management systems handle all the technical infrastructure, so you can focus on creating effective training programs instead of troubleshooting software issues.

Cloud-based vs. traditional LMS

Cloud-based learning management systems differ from traditional on-premise solutions in three fundamental ways that make them easier to deploy and scale.

• Installation and maintenance: Cloud-based LMS solutions require no software installation or IT support for updates. Traditional systems demand extensive IT resources for setup, maintenance, and ongoing updates.

• Mobile compatibility: Cloud-based platforms work on any device — phones, tablets, laptops — through web browsers and mobile apps. Traditional systems often require desktop access and don't support mobile learning.

• Scalability and storage: Cloud-based systems scale instantly as you add employees, with unlimited storage for training materials. Traditional platforms require hardware upgrades and additional server capacity as you grow.

Quick comparison: Best cloud-based LMS at a glance

We're going to spend more time talking about what cloud-based LMS platforms offer and how to choose the right one, but here's a quick overview.

Methodology: How we chose the best cloud-based LMS

We carefully reviewed leading cloud-based LMS platforms to help you decide what's right for your organization. In our review process, we assessed each platform's available offerings and analyzed customer feedback from sites like G2 and Capterra to give you the full picture.

We assessed each platform based on:

• Integration capabilities: Native connections with HR, payroll, and other business systems to eliminate manual data entry and create unified workflows

• Ease of use: Intuitive interfaces for both administrators and learners that reduce training time and increase adoption

• Course creation tools: Robust content authoring capabilities, support for various content types, and pre-built course libraries

• Compliance features: Automated course assignments, certification tracking, and audit-ready reporting

• Mobile accessibility: Responsive design and dedicated mobile apps for learning on any device

• Analytics and reporting: Comprehensive tracking of learner progress, completion rates, and training effectiveness

• Scalability: Ability to grow with your organization without performance degradation

• Customer support: Quality and availability of technical support and training resources

Rippling editorial policy: Rippling puts our customers (and prospective customers!) first. The Rippling team is committed to providing information supported by product data, insights, and customer feedback to inform our content.

10 best cloud-based LMS solutions

When exploring cloud-based learning management systems, it's important to consider platforms that not only provide standard LMS functionality but also integrate seamlessly with your existing business processes.

1. Rippling Learning Management

Rippling integrates learning management directly into its workforce platform, making it a powerful solution for growing companies seeking to automate their training processes. 

Unlike traditional LMS providers that operate as standalone systems, Rippling connects employee learning with HR, payroll, and IT management in one unified platform.

Key features:

• Automated course assignments based on employee attributes like role, department, and location

• Pre-built compliance courses in multiple languages

• Built-in quizzes and assessments

• Mobile-friendly learning interface

• Training synced with HR and payroll systems

• Compliance tied to time tracking

• Automated progress monitoring and reminders

• Self-service course creation tools

Where it falls short: Organizations wanting only a standalone LMS may find the broader workforce management platform more than they need.

Best for: Companies wanting LMS functionality deeply integrated with their HR and IT systems, and organizations prioritizing automated compliance management

Not right for: Organizations that only need a standalone LMS without broader workforce management capabilities

2. Workday

Workday's comprehensive cloud-based LMS is part of its larger human capital management (HCM) platform. 

Key features:

• Customized learning recommendations based on workforce data

• Learning options accommodate different content types, including video and quizzes

• External learning management for vendors and partners

• Built-in compliance tracking

• Learning is integrated into daily workflows

• Unified platform for internal and external learners

Where it falls short: Many users report that the platform has a steep learning curve and can be difficult to navigate, and the platform requires existing Workday infrastructure to fully realize its value.

Best for: Large enterprises with existing Workday HCM implementations seeking to integrate learning into their broader talent management strategy

Not right for: Small businesses or organizations not already invested in the Workday ecosystem

Workday Feature Snapshot

3. Dayforce

Dayforce's LMS is a cloud-based platform designed for organizations looking to integrate employee development with their broader HCM strategy. 

Key features:

• Embeds learning throughout the employee lifecycle

• AI-powered content recommendations

• Blends traditional LMS compliance with modern learning features

• Integrates with career planning and talent management tools

• Self-directed learning paths

• Compliance tracking

• Custom content creation and third-party content integration

• Real-time data on learning progress and completion rates

Where it falls short: The platform's complexity can overwhelm some organizations, and full functionality requires adoption of the broader Dayforce HCM suite.

Best for: Organizations needing LMS tied to broader talent management and career development initiatives that already use Dayforce 

Not right for: Companies looking for a simple, standalone LMS without full HCM integration or those that need a streamlined employee experience 

Dayforce Feature Snapshot

4. TalentLMS

TalentLMS is a straightforward cloud-based LMS designed to help businesses train their employees, partners, and customers. It combines course creation tools with basic learning management features, focusing on quick setup and standard training delivery for small to mid-sized organizations.

Key features:

• AI-powered course generation tools

• Built-in video conferencing

• Customizable learning paths

• Gamification tools

• Intuitive interface

• Integration options with popular business tools

• Analytics tools to track learner progress and training effectiveness

• SCORM-compliant

Where it falls short: Multiple users cited limited customization options, which prevented some organizations from setting up custom learning paths or more dynamic learning. Reporting features are also basic and lack customization features. 

Best for: Small businesses needing quick setup and straightforward training delivery without complex integrations

Not right for: Enterprises requiring deep HR system integration or advanced compliance automation

TalentLMS Feature Snapshot

5. Docebo

Docebo offers a generative AI-powered learning platform that focuses on scalable, automated training delivery. The platform emphasizes configurable workflows and personalized learning experiences for different audience types. 

Key features:

• AI-powered content authoring

• Flexible e-commerce solutions

• Community-driven learning tools

• Drag-and-drop configuration tools

• Flexible configuration for different use cases

• Automated administrative workflows

• Data-driven learning insights

• Intuitive interface for learners and managers

Where it falls short: The platform's enterprise focus means higher costs and complexity that may overwhelm smaller organizations, and some advanced features require significant setup time to configure properly. Despite the high price tag, some users noted that some features felt underdeveloped or didn’t meet their company’s needs. 

Best for: Enterprises requiring AI-powered learning capabilities and organizations monetizing training content through e-commerce

Not right for: Small businesses with simple training needs or those seeking straightforward, low-cost solutions

Docebo Feature Snapshot

6. LearnUpon

LearnUpon is a cloud-based LMS designed to deliver training through a single, centralized solution with multi-portal capabilities. It’s geared towards small to mid-sized businesses and large corporations that need to manage separate learning environments for different audiences.

Key features:

• Multi-portal architecture for separate, branded learning environments

• Automated enrollment and certification management

• Analytics tools track progress and training effectiveness

• HR, CRM, and SSO integration

• Automated administrative tasks

• Gamification features

• Standardized content delivery

• Scales to support growing businesses

Where it falls short: Some users commented on the lack of course authoring options and wanted more flexibility, and multiple users cited issues with a lack of needed integrations, including for some key platforms. 

Best for: Organizations needing multiple branded learning portals for different audiences like employees, customers, and partners

Not right for: Companies needing just one learning environment without multi-portal complexity or extensive third-party integrations. 

LearnUpon Feature Snapshot

7. Absorb LMS

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

Key features:

• SCORM and HTML5 support

• Automated enrollment workflows

• Built-in eCommerce tools

• Flexible deployment for different user groups

• Gamification capabilities

• Robust security certifications

• Multi-language support

• Integration with existing business systems

Where it falls short: Users consistently cite a lack of customization, flexibility, and desired features. Some have said that it makes course creation more time-consuming, while others have said it’s made it difficult to track their user experience goals successfully. 

Best for: Organizations that need built-in eCommerce tools that need technical support for SCORM and HTML5 

Not right for: Companies looking for advanced customization and detailed reporting options 

Absorb LMS Feature Snapshot

8. 360Learning

360Learning specializes in collaborative learning, enabling organizations to leverage internal expertise for training content creation. The platform's approach focuses on peer-driven learning rather than traditional top-down training delivery. 

Key features:

• Interactive peer and social learning features

• Video coaching capabilities

• AI-powered collaborative learning

• Gamification features

• Rapid course deployment

• Reduced onboarding time

• Democratized content creation

• Community-driven knowledge sharing

Where it falls short: The collaborative model requires active employee participation to succeed, which may not work for organizations with less engaged workforces, and compliance features are more basic compared to some enterprise-focused platforms.

Best for: Companies prioritizing collaborative, peer-driven learning and organizations wanting to leverage internal expertise

Not right for: Organizations needing comprehensive compliance automation or traditional top-down training delivery

360Learning Feature Snapshot

9. Litmos

Litmos is a global cloud-based LMS that helps companies create courses, deliver content, and track training programs. 

Key features:

• Course creation and gamification tools

• Customizable learning paths

• Multi-language support

• Learning progress and completion rate analytics

• Integrations with existing software infrastructure

• Automated and centralized learning management

• Built-in certification tracking and mandatory course assignments

• Pre-built content library

Where it falls short: Some users report that limited reporting capabilities were significant, which impacted both effective progress tracking and overall compliance levels. Some also reported inaccessible or missing reporting data and limited admin access. 

Best for: Global companies needing multi-language support and organizations requiring AI-powered learning features

Not right for: Organizations seeking modern, intuitive interfaces or those prioritizing detailed reporting and analytics 

Litmos Feature Snapshot

10. Zoho People

Zoho People's LMS is a cloud-based platform for small and medium-sized businesses. It helps organizations deliver employee training, onboarding, and skills development programs across multiple departments. 

Key features:

• Course creation and management tools

• Virtual classrooms

• Support for mobile learning

• Progress tracking analytics

• Industry-flexible customization

• Cross-team collaborative learning tools

Where it falls short: Some users have cited difficulty in navigating and using the platform due to an outdated or cluttered interface, finding it overwhelming. It also requires integration with Zoho’s other tools if you want to get the most out of the platform.  

Best for: Small to mid-sized businesses that are already using Zoho’s other products and who need a straightforward solution with industry-specific customization. 

Zoho People Feature Snapshot

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6 benefits of cloud-based LMS

We’ve briefly discussed some of the benefits of using a cloud-based LMS for training and staff development. Now, let’s explore the advantages of these sophisticated learning platforms and how they can support your organization's learning initiatives. 

1. Cost-effectiveness with no need for hardware maintenance

Cloud LMS solutions significantly lower the cost of internal training and development programs by reducing the need for costly hardware and associated maintenance. 

In addition, cloud-based learning management systems help you avoid significant upfront costs because they typically operate on a subscription model, making them more affordable and easy to manage. Without physical infrastructure to worry about, your IT team is available for other, more important tasks. 

2. Accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection

A key benefit of cloud-based LMS platforms is their universal accessibility. 

Your workforce can access training and development materials anywhere, using smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops. 

For organizations with a global workforce or teams spread out across the country, a cloud-based LMS makes it easy to offer consistent training and learning regardless of location.

3. Seamless updates and integrations with other software

With a cloud-based platform, you never have to worry about software updates, maintenance, or the disruptions they can cause. Your LMS provider handles those tasks, freeing you from the associated tech headaches. 

Many modern platforms also integrate with existing HR systems, creating a unified ecosystem for employing training and development. This interconnection allows training data to flow between different organizational tools, boosting your overall efficiency. 

4. Flexibility and scalability for growing organizations

As your business expands, a cloud-based LMS can easily scale to support your growing workforce and increased user demand and content requirements. 

Cloud-based systems can instantly adapt to your organization’s evolving needs and content requirements, whether adding new teams, locations, or training programs. 

5. Enhanced compliance and risk management

With a cloud-based learning management system, organizations can streamline compliance training by automatically assigning compulsory government-mandated courses based on employee role and location. 

The LMS stores detailed completion documentation for review and verification and keeps track of certification expiry dates, reducing the risk of non-compliance. This automated approach ensures your organization stays current with regulatory requirements and maintains a complete record for audit purposes. 

6. Actionable insights and analytics

Modern cloud-based LMS solutions deliver powerful reporting capabilities that provide actionable insights into the effectiveness of your training and development programs. You can track key metrics like course completion rates, assessment results, and learner progress, all in real time. 

The result? You gain a clear view of performance, helping you identify skill gaps, measure training ROI, and make informed decisions about your organization’s learning strategies. 

6 key features of cloud-based learning management systems

Training and employee development are critical for organizations. They enhance your team's skills, boost productivity, and contribute to the overall success of your business. 

As you begin to explore the various cloud-based LMS options, these are key features to focus on: 

1. Mobile learning capabilities

Mobile functionality is a must-have to accommodate the needs of today’s dispersed and flexible teams.

 A mobile-optimized LMS platform allows your talent to carry out their training on multiple devices, including tablets and smartphones, making learning possible anytime and from anywhere. 

2. Integration options with existing HR or CRM systems

Integration with your core business systems is indispensable for maintaining data integrity and optimizing workflows. 

Your cloud-based LMS should connect with your key platforms like your HRIS or payroll software to automatically sync employee data and training reports. This integration will reduce or eliminate manual busywork and ensure training data is available across your organization.

3. Reporting and analytics tools

Tracking the learning process is essential for measuring training effectiveness. LMS platforms with comprehensive reporting capabilities can provide insights that let you make data-driven decisions about your e-learning and development programs. 

Key features to look for include:

• Customizable dashboards

• Completion tracking

• Custom reporting with metrics like assessment scores and course completion rates 

4. Intuitive user interface and navigation

Your cloud-based LMS should be easy to use. A simple and intuitive interface is essential for both learners and administrators, as it reduces friction and can increase adoption. 

The LMS should make it easy to perform key tasks like creating and assigning course content, tracking progress, and accessing training resources. 

5. Customizable learning paths

When considering an LMS solution, make sure it supports personalized learning experiences based on your employee’s role, skills, and career goals. 

The ability to design custom learning paths keeps your training content relevant, aligned with employee needs, and supports your company’s training and development goals. 

6. Certification and compliance tracking

Tools for managing certifications and compliance training are essential in any modern cloud-based LMS.

 Look for platforms that can automatically track certification expiration dates, alert users about renewals, and maintain accurate records for regulatory audits. Automation not only helps keep your organization compliant, it also reduces your administrative workload.

How to choose the best cloud-based LMS: 5 steps

The best cloud-based LMS platform depends on your company’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. 

Here’s how to choose the best cloud-based LMS:

Step 1. Define the organization's size and learning goals

Begin by clearly defining your training objectives and goals. 

Consider the number of employees who need training, the types of training required (such as compliance training or skills development), and your goals. If you’re a global organization or have remote workers, you may require training in multiple languages. 

Be sure to outline your current and future training requirements to ensure the cloud-based LMS can scale with you. 

Step 2. Evaluate integration capabilities

Look for an LMS solution that easily integrates with your existing HR systems and other business tools. 

The LMS must meet modern security standards to protect your data across multiple locations and devices. Ensure the LMS supports industry standards like SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) for easy content migration and sharing.

Step 3. Ensure security and privacy

Choose a cloud-based LMS incorporating comprehensive security measures to protect sensitive educational content and user data. 

The best platforms feature enterprise-grade security standards for data encryption, compliance certifications, and authentication procedures. These standards protect against unauthorized access to workforce information and training materials, while maintaining accessibility for authorized users.

Step 4. Consider budget and long-term costs

Evaluate the total cost of ownership. Cloud-based LMS solutions typically provide better long-term value through subscription-based pricing models, eliminating the need for expensive server installations and maintenance costs. 

However, before making your final decision, be sure to look for hidden fees or extra costs.

Step 5. Request demos and free trials

Take advantage of cloud-based LMS platform demos to evaluate the user interface, feature set, and overall functionality. 

Test the platform's course creation tools, automation capabilities, and reporting features during the trial period to ensure they meet your organization’s requirements.

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Rippling: Manage your employees' learning from anywhere with the best cloud-based LMS

When it comes to cloud-based learning management systems, Rippling stands out. Rippling's LMS software is an intuitive yet powerful tool that streamlines the management of educational programs for businesses of any size.

Fast and easy course building:

• Upload existing training materials like videos, slides, and quizzes

• Choose from a pre-built content library on key topics like compliance and professional skills

• Create custom learning paths for different roles and experience levels

Automated compliance management:

• US course bundle includes anti-harassment training needed to keep US employees in compliance

• Enrollments pre-configured across all 50 states

• Enroll employees and managers into correct state-mandated courses with one click

• Automatic annual re-enrollment

Streamlined training administration:

• Automatically tracks employees' training progress

• Sends reminders to learners

• Records completions on employee profiles

• Comprehensive reporting features for monitoring course enrollment

• Identifies knowledge gaps

• Measures training initiative ROI

Seamless integration with HR and IT:

• Integrates employee training with core HR and IT processes

• Automatically triggers onboarding tasks and course enrollments for new hires

• Unified platform eliminates data silos

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.

Continuous learning means more productive and engaged employees. Get started with Rippling to improve employee performance and retention. 

Cloud-based LMS FAQs