How Much Does a Free LMS Really Cost!
We have already discussed how to
calculate the cost
of an enterprise LMS. We have also discussed the pros and cons of an open-source
vs SaaS Learning
Management System. Open-source software (OSS) is an effective example of
open collaboration. A licensed source code gives users the option to use,
study, change, and distribute the software. In EdTech (for both corporates and
educational institutions), an OSS LMS can be used for many activities. For
instance, blended learning, distance learning, flipped classroom, and
e-learning.
Several users opt for an open-source LMS,
believing that it is free. But at the end of the day, does it really arrive at
zero cost? Yes, the source code of the software is available openly for
download and is free to use. But there are certain hidden costs that
organisations must be aware of before opting for this solution. And today, we
are here to enlighten you about the real, long-term pric e of the so-called 'free LMS'. Therefore,
let's get on with it!
What Are the Hidden Costs in an Open-source
Free LMS?
Installation and
Customization
It's true that once you download and
install a free LMS, you can instantly access the code without paying any
additional fee. You can even avail yourself of the user licenses free. However,
the issue arises when you decide to get the LMS running. You have to scour for
the necessary skills required to install the server. For the purposes mentioned
above, you have to deploy your IT team or recruit external experts. In both
cases, you end up spending quite an amount of money.
Hosting
Once you complete the installation and
customization processes, you have to think about hosting your free LMS. Users
will access the software for learning and corporate
training. One option is to host the LMS on-premise by buying the specified
hardware. The second alternative is to host the LMS on the cloud. Even in the
latter case, you need to subscribe to a reliable hosting service.
Technical Support
It's rare for open-source free LMSs to
offer dedicated and consistent tech support. You will usually have access to
forums, where finding a solution for a time-bound problem is difficult. Since
the customization and administration of an open-source LMS is solely your
responsibility, you are forced to solve technical roadblocks like de-bugging
and upgrades on your own. Again, you will need to invest in a dedicated IT team
or external experts to give you timely solutions.
Training and Administration
It's challenging to administer most of
the open-source free LMSs. You have to seek expert assistance. And this demands
money and a budget. The choice is yours -- do you want to deploy your in-house
staff or do you wish to hire an external professional. Will s/he be full time
or part-time? Moreover, you will also need to offer the necessary training to
your LMS administrators.
Regular Upgrades
After the customization and setup of an
open-source free LMS, you have to continually improvise on its features as your
organisation evolves. For installing the next upgrade, you spend some extra
bucks.
Conclusion
Open-source and free Online Learning
Management Systems appear to be the perfect fit when you compare them with
a commercial LMS. There are no licensing costs. You even have the flexibility
to customise and add features. But they do involve several hidden expenses as
mentioned above -- such as setup, hosting, maintenance, and support. If you
already have a dedicated in-house team to handle the aforementioned tasks, you
can rest assured of lesser costs. If not, it is better to consider all the
factors before picking an open-source free LMS.
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