This comprehensive guide introduces you to the top 10 LMS platforms with a robust knowledge base that will enhance your e-learning strategies and employee training programs.
Whether you're aiming to streamline onboarding, facilitate knowledge sharing, or elevate your training content, this list is designed to help you make an informed decision.
Disclaimer: The information below is accurate as of April 4th, 2024. Please note that the solutions(competitors’/softwares’ features) we review may change over time. If you have updates or new features to share, let us know. This helps us keep our content accurate and up-to-date.
What is an LMS with a knowledge base?
An LMS with a knowledge base includes a centralized repository for storing and organizing instructional content, including tutorials, FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and other resources.
This feature is an LMS support and guidance hub for administrators, instructors, and learners, providing immediate access to vital information and solutions.
Picture a scenario where a learner, while coursing through an e-learning module late at night, encounters a subject or a concept they’re not familiar with.
Instead of halting progress until an instructor can reply to their email, they can dive into the knowledge base and find something like a glossary or a recommended reading list that will clear up any confusion.
For instructors, this means going from being the sole source of knowledge to empowering learners with the tools to find answers independently.
What are the benefits of using an LMS with a knowledge base?
Using a learning management system (LMS) with a knowledge base streamlines the training process and enhances the overall user experience.
Here’s a closer look at the key benefits.
Faster answers & self-sufficiency
Users no longer need to pause their learning journey to seek help for operational queries or technical issues.
Instead, they can rely on a rich repository of FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and how-to articles to find the answers they need quickly. This autonomy cultivates a culture of self-sufficiency among learners.
Simplified learning curve
Adopting new technology or platform features can often be daunting for users.
An LMS with an integrated knowledge base simplifies this process, offering step-by-step tutorials and guides that are easy to follow.
This significantly flattens the learning curve, allowing users to quickly become proficient in using the LMS’s features.
As a result, learners can dedicate more focus and energy to absorbing course content rather than navigating the LMS interface.
Imagine a scenario where a new module is introduced. Users can access detailed instructions and walkthroughs that help them engage with this module without confusion.
Round-the-clock support
Unlike traditional support services that may be limited by business hours, a knowledge base provides round-the-clock assistance.
This 24/7 availability ensures that users can find solutions to their queries at any time, anywhere — whether it’s late at night or during weekends.
Consistent & reliable information
A well-maintained knowledge base acts as a centralized repository of accurate and updated information.
This consistency is crucial in preventing misinformation and ensuring that all users have access to the same standard of resources.
For organizations spread across numerous locations, this means every learner, regardless of where they are, receives uniform guidance.
This uniformity is essential for maintaining the integrity of the learning process and ensuring that all participants are on the same page.
10 of the best LMS platforms with a knowledge base
Here’s a rundown of the top 10 LMS platforms with a knowledge base.
| Software | Best for | Top feature |
| Docebo | Scalable and personalized L&D for employees, customers and partners | AI-powered learning paths for tailored training experiences |
| TalentLMS | Customizable user roles | Branching for targeted audience training |
| Absorb LMS | Verifying employees’ skills | Observational checklists |
| Moodle | Collaborative learning | Pedagogical tools |
| 360Learning | Delivering SCORM courses across devices | SCORM compatibility |
| Adobe Learning Manager | User management | SSO and xAPI support |
| LearnWorlds | Multimedia content | Assessment builder |
| Cornerstone Learning | Predictive analytics for data-driven decisions | Skills graph |
| LearnUpon | Blended learning | SCORM and xAPI standards |
| iSpring Learn | Personalized learning | Freeform assignments |
Let’s explore each LMS in further detail.
1. Docebo
Docebo is a cloud-based LMS designed for onboarding new employees, channel partner training, upskilling and reskilling, and customer onboarding.
Its virtual coach feature offers automated content recommendations based on learners' activities and queries, enhancing personalized learning.
The platform’s AI-powered content authoring allows organizations to create microlearning content across multiple formats and languages.
Docebo’s features allow learners to capture and distribute training material amongst their peers, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Additionally, the platform is xAPI and SCORM-compliant and can support multiple content formats like video, audio, webinars, gamification, and interactive elements.
Its knowledge base covers comprehensive topics ranging from platform setup, course creation and management, mobile app utilization, informal learning management, e-commerce, and more.
G2 Rating
Top Features
- AI-powered upskilling that matches learning content with employee interests, skills, and career goals and hyper-personalizes the learning experience.
- Comprehensive knowledge base with diverse topics.
- Great features for social learning.
- Branded, white-labeled mobile app with offline capabilities.
- Content library featuring certification programs like PMI/PMP, CompTIA, ITIL, Microsoft, HRCI, Six Sigma, and more.
What users like
- "[It has a] clean, professional interface that makes our learning platform look impressive to our employees and customers. Course administrators can make a solid, professional, easy-to-navigate course without having to be an expert at design." – Dave K.
- "There are various plugins and additions that complement the wide variety of options already included in the tool to implement with your organization's suite." – Graeme E.
- “Docebo offers a ton of great features and possibilities [for adapting] the platform to your needs. Customer support is quite fast when you experience any issues (which rarely occur).” – Jurgen H.
Best suited for
With an expansive content library featuring certification programs like PMI/PMP, CompTIA, ITIL, Microsoft, HRCI, Six Sigma, and more, Docebo is well-suited for elevating employees' skills.
2. TalentLMS
TalentLMS is an online learning platform designed for employee development, compliance training, and customer onboarding.
The platform supports the latest e-learning standards, such as SCORM, xAPI, and cmi5, which allows organizations to create interactive content and track learner progress.
It also includes an assessment engine that facilitates the creation of varied test types, from multiple-choice to drag-and-drop.
TalentLMS’s knowledge base spans guides on billing and plans, branches, certifications, compliance, and more.
G2 Rating
Top Features
- SCORM, cmi5, and xAPI compliant.
- Assessments engine for creating diverse test types.
- Surveys engine for collecting learner feedback.
- Structured learning paths.
- Built-in course authoring that supports multiple content formats like videos and infographics.
What users like
- "All available courses, progress, completions, seat time, and certificates are displayed in an intuitive dashboard." – Wallace W.
- “Great knowledge base and customer support. Client success manager is assigned at higher subscription levels and they help us with any issues or questions.” – Rick L.
- "The discussion board, which our company has been using as a main form of communication, and a Q&A for any questions team members might have." – Trevor T.
What users don’t like
- "The UI design, while functional, might feel a bit dated for some users accustomed to more modern aesthetics. It could benefit from a more contemporary look to enhance user engagement and navigation intuitiveness." – Aakash R.
- “The payment gateways are hard to navigate. The notification and discussion groups are clunky.” – Naima R.
- "The concept of Branches and Groups is a little hard to follow." – Simon P.
Best suited for
With its ability to support diverse content types and e-learning standards, TalentLMS is best suited for delivering interactive online training.
3. Absorb LMS
Absorb LMS is a learning solution designed for employee onboarding, compliance training, professional development, and skill verification.
The platform’s content library provides learners with immediate access to online courses from popular content providers like LinkedIn Learning.
Its observational checklist features allow organizations to verify on-the-job employee skills and track compliance automatically.
Additionally, its knowledge base includes information on configuring portal settings, managing single sign-on (SSO) settings, and customizing the learner experience through branding and personalization.
G2 Rating
Top Features
- Observational checklists for skill verification.
- Mobile app for learning on the go with offline capabilities.
- Content library with pre-built courses from popular e-learning content providers.
- E-signatures feature for learning verification and legal compliance.
What users like
- “The customer support is quick to respond and search for a resolution to any issues we have.” – Verified user in hospitality.
- “It allows us to focus on training objectives without worrying about technical glitches.” – Verified user in automotive.
- “It offers a range of customization options to suit different organizational needs.” – Fidela B.
What users don’t like
- “Not being able to schedule enrollments to occur on a specific date is a drawback.” – Gregg A.
- “It has some bugs, and it can feel like it takes a little bit of time to get software solutions like the Manager Experience.” – Hunter S.
- “There are a couple of places in the UI where a bulk action option would save us time over taking the action individually (example, setting an Audience value for courses).” – Erin C.
Best suited for
Absorb LMS’s features like e-signatures and Absorb Pinpoint make it the best fit for ensuring that learners have the skills required for their roles.
4. Moodle
Moodle is an open-source learning software designed for self-paced, instructor-led blended learning, and fully online courses.
The platform allows extensive customization of its theme with your branding, including logos and color schemes.
With 50+ authentication and enrollment options, the platform simplifies user management, ensuring secure access to the site and courses.
The knowledge base covers a wide array of topics and detailed guides for setting up and updating Moodle.
G2 Rating
Top Features
- Customizable site design and layout.
- 50+ authentication and enrollment options.
- Supports multiple languages.
- Supports open standards like IMS-LTI and SCORM.
What users like
- “Moodle gets it all right, flexible and powerful; superb features for any style of learning, and a huge plug-in ecosystem. With API access it is not difficult to pull resources in from other sources (or share resources from Moodle).” – Bill M.
- “We leverage Moodle Workplace which allows us to create programs. These are bundled courses or a series of courses that can be packaged together and allow for a seamless experience for our students.” – Andrew L.
- “Moodle is a [rich-feature] open-source LMS irrespective of size and nature of the educational institution. It can be easily integrated with many third-party applications with the plugins.” – Sushil Kumar S.
What users don’t like
- “Learning how to use Moodle can be a daunting task due to its vast range of features, making it complex and time-consuming to figure out.” – Verified user in education.
- “The flexibility can make standardization hard to achieve, which can be confusing to some learners.” – Joseph K.
- “Moodle can be very unfriendly for users due to extra clicks and lots of scrolling.” – Verified user in higher education.
Best suited for
Moodle is best suited for educational institutions, corporations, and training organizations looking for a flexible e-learning solution.
5. 360Learning
360Learning is a collaborative learning platform designed for employee onboarding, continuous learning, and professional development.
The platform includes ready-made templates based on digital pedagogy principles to help organizations quickly create courses.
Organizations can use its surveys for learner feedback or create quizzes with its AI-suggested questions.
The knowledge base covers instructional guides on creating and managing courses and updates on the latest features.
G2 Rating
Top Features
- Ready-made templates based on digital pedagogy principles.
- Surveys and AI-suggested questions for quizzes.
- Bulk-import and SCORM-player features support the mass importation of SCORM courses and seamless delivery to learners on any device.
- Multilingual support.
What users like
- “I highly appreciate 360Learning for its extensive customization capabilities, enabling the creation of unique portals with distinct branding, domains, messaging, and language options.” – Verified user in computer software.
- “Their online support is also amazing with the engagement academy and knowledge base.” – Nadia D.
- “It naturally drives engagement as it [resembles a] social network and it is flexible enough to accommodate different online content.” – Sara B.
What users don’t like
- “At times finding answers in the knowledge base is challenging if you don't phrase searches the way 360 does.” – Cathy B.
- “The reporting tool is not very flexible, the reports are unclear, too bad there is no reporting summary available in PDF format.” – Karen P.
- “It can be challenging to find a course on a specific topic with the modules being organized by some sort of carousel.” – Muntxo M.
Best suited for
360Learning’s bulk-import and SCORM-player features make it best suited for mass importation and delivery of SCORM courses to learners on any device.
6. Adobe Learning Manager
Adobe Learning Manager, previously known as Adobe Captivate Prime, is a learning platform designed for customer education, employee re-skilling, compliance training, and franchisee training.
Its skill matrix feature assists organizations in identifying and closing skill gaps by tracking skill enhancement and its impact on job performance.
Its learning plan functionality can automatically assign learning programs and recommend content based on users' past activities.
Its knowledge base covers guides for resolving common issues as well as FAQS.
G2 Rating
Top Features
- Skill matrix feature for identifying and closing skill gaps.
- Learning plan capabilities.
- Multi-tenancy for managing different departments, divisions, or clients.
- Gamification elements including points, badges, and certifications.
- Social learning features.
What users like
- “Creating courses is very straightforward. Customer support, although it is overseas, has been excellent.” – Verified user in food production.
- “I love how easy the interface is to use and how familiar the functions are [compared] to other Adobe Products that I have used in the past.” – Zacchaeus E.
- “A big plus for me personally as an admin is that Adobe support is very responsive to any client questions, so working with their staff is a pleasure.” – Suzanne C.
What users don’t like
- “It does not provide the basic functions that an LMS should. The system does not properly support a Prerequisite function. A learner should not be able to enroll or secure a seat in a classroom course when there is a prerequisite and it is not complete.” – Verified user in automotive.
- “Our group cannot turn off the scrollbar at the bottom of classes. Even though we have hidden this function, you can still see it.” – Verified user in government administration.
- “Managing the user profiles is not as user-friendly as other parts of the system. Example, removing a user who has left the company makes it very difficult to add back if rehired.” – Verified user in transportation.
Best suited for
Adobe Learning Manager’s skill matrix feature is best suited for tracking employee development.
7. LearnWorlds
LearnWorlds is an online learning platform for creating, marketing, and selling online courses.
The platform includes an assessment builder that allows organizations to create online exams and self-assessments for evaluating learner understanding and progress.
Creators can use LearnWorlds to produce interactive videos with quizzes, pop-ups, and other engaging elements embedded within the video content.
The knowledge base includes how-to guides on starting and creating courses, integrating third-party tools, and account management.
G2 Rating
Top Features
- Assessment builder feature.
- Interactive video elements like quizzes and pop-ups.
- Supports uploading and integration of SCORM/HTML5 packages and activities.
- Customizable surveys for learner feedback.
What users like
- "The platform is not only visually appealing but also intuitively designed, making the process of building and navigating courses a breeze." – Jen G.
- “The responsive customer support is a standout feature. The LearnWorlds team [has] consistently exceeded our expectations, providing swift and effective assistance whenever needed.” – Verified user in consulting.
- "The support team is incredibly helpful and responsive, always ready to assist with kindness and precision." – Max P.
What users don’t like
- "There is no ability to put expiry dates on certificates. This is a must-have feature for compliance courses." – Jason K.
- “There isn't yet an option to redirect the button on the course cards to go from the checkout page to a custom page that I would want to set up.” – Otavio P.
- "It would be nice to channel communication to learners through a communication platform of choice, instead of being limited to platforms that they partner with." – William P.
Best suited for
LearnWorlds is best suited for creators and educators looking to create and sell interactive online courses.
8. Cornerstone Learning
Cornerstone is a people-experience platform designed for talent management.
The platform’s skills graph provides organizations with instant insights into the workforce's skills.
The platform includes engagement surveys that allow organizations to measure the impact of their talent programs.
Organizations can use Cornerstone’s reporting and analytic tools to make better talent decisions.
Its knowledge base covers troubleshooting guides, support resources, and updates on the latest features.
G2 Rating
Top Features
- Skills graph feature.
- Engagement surveys.
- Analytics and reporting features.
- Integration and API functionalities.
What users like
- “The platform offers a range of abilities; hosting SCORM packages, video content, curriculums, annual [compliance] training, etc.” – Angie G.
- “The willingness to provide clients with the feedback and functionality that they need to perform their jobs at maximum potential.” – Brittney B.
- “Cornerstone Learning allows us to create custom learning content as well as purchase online content from vendors.” – Tammy L.
What users don’t like
- “Support can sometimes be less than helpful. There are also times when the roadmap changes are not publicized enough, so you may be hoping for a project on the roadmap that then doesn't appear.” – Tina P.
- “Sometimes the system [does] not behave as expected or glitches can happen. At times, even GPS and product managers can't answer why the issues are happening or what's causing the issue.” – Shirley W.
- “Getting to the root of more advanced problems can be challenging and time-consuming.” – Marie C.
Best suited for
Cornerstone is best suited for managing the entire employee life cycle, from recruiting and onboarding to performance management.
9. LearnUpon
LearnUpon LMS is a cloud-based LMS designed for employee, partner, and customer training.
The platform allows users to add videos to any course along with progress tracking and captions or transcripts.
Additionally, LearnUpon offers tools for managing certifications, e-signatures, and audit trails for compliance tracking.
Its knowledge base includes guides and an instructor-led training (ILT) center.
G2 Rating
Top Features
- Videos with progress tracking and accessibility features like captions or transcripts.
- Blended learning features.
- Native course builder and compatibility with SCORM and xAPI.
- User management with automation features.
- Offers tools for managing certifications, e-signatures, and audit trails.
What users like
- "Beyond tracking learning completion, LearnUpon has helped us streamline our learning process, increase employee engagement, and deliver best-in-class results for our clients and employees." – Jennifer H.
- “The best part is the customer service. Also, the customer support team is highly knowledgeable and very friendly.” – Anthony S.
- "The platform's intuitive user interface simplified the administration of courses, exams, and surveys." – Miranda G.
What users don’t like
- "It would be nice to have bulk actions for removing users if we're deleting an entire group due to a client cancellation. " – Laura K.
- “We found that the LearnUpon admin interface can be a bit confusing with many levels and layers with menus and options floating around. This has made the management of our courses a bit harder than one would hope for.” – Verified user in hospital.
- "The quizzing tool covers pretty much all needs, but for certain niche use cases, it misses the mark by not being as customizable." – Verified user in financial services
Best suited for
LearnUpon’s native course builder feature is best suited for creating courses with multimedia content.
10. iSpring Learn
iSpring Learn is a learning software tool designed for onboarding, compliance training, and skill development.
Organizations can set the system to auto-assign courses to specific groups or individual roles.
The platform also allows organizations to use its REST/SOAP API when integrating their training data with other systems.
Its knowledge base covers guides, product documentation, webinars, and FAQS.
G2 Rating
Top Features
- Automatic course assignment feature.
- Automatic reminders and notifications for live training and meetings.
- Reporting features.
- Customizable training portal.
- REST/SOAP API integration capabilities.
What users like
- "iSpring Learn is an awesome add-on to the iSpring Suite. It allows me to create a site for my trainees to take training sessions and quizzes." – Dan G.
- “We have an easy setup for self-enrollment which works well. Their customer support is quick.” – Verified user in manufacturing.
- "iSpring Learn has an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it easy for both administrators and learners to navigate the platform. " – Jimit G.
What users don’t like
- "We can't filter employers by language, which is making it harder for us." – Maxime P.
- “The page is a bit clunky and navigation can be a bit of a learning curve.” – Dan G.
- "As an administrator, I want the ability to administer my program from a mobile device." – Ben M.
Best suited for
iSpring Learn’s reporting features make it well-suited for monitoring learner progress with detailed content, people, quiz, and simulation reports.
How to choose the best LMS with a knowledge base
Choosing the best LMS with a knowledge base involves considering key factors beyond just the availability of the knowledge base itself.
Here’s what you should consider.
Features
An LMS should offer a robust set of features like course creation tools, user management, reporting and analytics, customizable learning paths, and integration capabilities.
These LMS features allow for a tailored learning experience that can adapt to the specific needs of the organization or educational institution.
For example, an LMS with user management features allows administrators to create groups based on regions, job roles, or departments.
Use cases
Opt for an LMS that supports your specific use case — from onboarding a new hire and conducting compliance training to customer education.
In industries like finance or healthcare, where regulations frequently change, LMSs are invaluable.
They ensure that employees stay updated with the latest compliance standards, reducing the risk of violations.
Up to date
An outdated knowledge base can lead to confusion and inefficiency.
For instance, IT professionals rely on the latest guidelines for cybersecurity practices to protect against new threats. An LMS that regularly updates its knowledge base ensures that learners have access to the most current information, keeping them ahead in their field.
Note: Before committing to an LMS, review the knowledge base articles’ last update. The date this occurred is often found at the bottom of each article and will give you a quick idea of how frequently the content is refreshed.
Scalability
Choose an LMS that allows you to add or customize features as your organization's needs evolve.
For instance, when organizations go global, they face new challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences, and compliance with foreign regulations.
A scalable LMS will allow them to incorporate additional languages and regulatory standards, making it a versatile tool for international training programs.
Support beyond the knowledge base
While a comprehensive knowledge base is valuable, additional support options are essential for resolving more complex issues.
These may include live chat, email support, phone support, community forums, and dedicated account managers.
These support channels ensure users can find help when they need it, in a way that suits their preferences.
Now over to you
It’s clear that an LMS with a knowledge base and robust support is crucial for the success of your training programs.
Now, it's time to take the next step toward transforming your learning and development (L&D) strategy.
Consider exploring how Docebo can enhance your learning experience.
Ready to see how it can work for your organization? Start by booking a demo today.