LMS vs LXP: Which option is better for your training organisation?

If you’re a training provider or organisation helping businesses upskill their people, you’ve likely come across both LMSs and LXPs. These two types of platforms are often mentioned in the same breath, but they’re not the same thing.

So, what exactly is the difference between an LMS and an LXP? And more importantly, which one is the right choice for your training business?

Let’s take a closer look.

What is a learning management system?

A learning management system (LMS) is a platform used to deliver, manage and track structured training programmes. It gives training organisations control over course creation, learner enrolment, assessments and progress tracking. Most LMSs are designed to support formal learning by following a clear, top-down structure set by the trainer or provider.

What is a learning experience platform?

A learning experience platform (LXP) is a learner-cenric tool that focuses on personalised, self-directed learning. LXPs are designed to feel more like content discovery platforms (think Netflix or Spotify for learning) where learners can explore courses, videos, articles or podcasts based on their interests, skills and goals. Rather than structured programmes, LXPs often support informal, on-demand learning experiences.

Both LMSs and LXPs are designed to help people learn. However, they take very different approaches especially when it comes to how content is delivered, who controls the learning journey and how learning is tracked.

If you’re comparing LMSs vs LXPs, you’ll want to consider how they differ across four main factors:

• Control and structure

• Content delivery

• Engagement and collaboration

• Analytics and tracking

Control and structure

LMS: The training organisation or provider has full control over the learning path. Courses are typically linear and learners follow a set order designed to build knowledge step-by-step.

LXP: Control shifts to the learner. Content is curated but not necessarily structured. Learners can explore resources freely, choosing what to engage with based on their needs or interests.

Content delivery

LMS: Course delivery is structured, often with modules, deadlines and assessments. It’s ideal for compliance training, certifications or any scenario where standardisation and consistency are key.

LXP: Content can include videos, articles, podcasts or user-generated resources. The focus is on discovery and variety, which works well for upskilling or informal learning.

Engagement and collaboration

LMS: Engagement often comes through quizzes, assignments, discussion boards and progress tracking. The experience is usually designed by the trainer with limited interaction between learners.

LXP: Social learning is a core feature. Learners can share content, recommend resources and learn from peers. This creates a more collaborative and community-driven experience.

Analytics and tracking

LMS: Offers detailed progress tracking, assessment results and completion rates. This makes it easier for training providers to measure learning outcomes and report on progress.

LXP: Provides data on content engagement, learner preferences and activity trends. While this helps training professionals or organisations understand what learners find valuable, it often comes at the cost of less focus on formal assessments.

LMS vs LXP: Which is the best option for you?

Ultimately, this depends on your business model and how you deliver training.

If your training organisation creates structured programmes for other companies (and especially if you need to track learner progress or issue certificates), an LMS is the obvious choice. And if you don’t know where to start, here’s our take on the best LMSs out there right now.

However, if your focus is on creating a content library for ongoing learning and skill development, or you’re enabling more self-directed learning in-house, an LXP could be a good fit.

But for most external training providers, it’s not a question of either/or.

Combine LMS and LXP features in one powerful learning platform

At aNewSpring, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between structure and experience.

Our learning journey platform brings together the best of LMS and LXP features, so you can deliver high-quality training programmes and give learners the freedom to explore.

✅ Structured journeys: Build clear, guided paths from start to finish (ideal for formal training programmes).

✅ Engaging content: Mix content formats, add interactive elements and personalise the learning experience.

✅ Blended and adaptive learning: Combine live and digital sessions, and adapt content to each learner’s needs.

✅ Social features: Add discussions, collaboration and peer feedback to keep learners engaged.

✅ Powerful tracking and insights: Get the detailed analytics you need to demonstrate impact and improve your training.

✅ Custom branding and easy integrations: Make the platform yours and connect it to your existing systems.

So, if you're looking for a platform that supports how you train (whether that’s structured, informal or a bit of both), give aNewSpring a try. You can start by booking a personalised demo to see how aNewSpring fits into your training business.