There’s a lot of overlap between learning experience platforms and learning management systems, not at all helped by how many vendors have started to treat them as though they’re synonymous. But while each solution plays an important role in training and development, they differ from one another in terms of purpose, focus, and feature set.  

What is a Learning Management System?

An LMS, or learning management system, is a software solution designed to help an organization more effectively deliver training. Instructors are able to control how and when content is delivered while also centralizing all learning materials into a single repository. LMS platforms also provide user management, scheduling, and assessment functionality.

Typical LMS use cases include:

• Onboarding contractors and new employees
• Compliance and certification
• Customer education
• Channel partner training

Related: The 14 Best Learning Management Systems to Look Out For in 2025

What is a Learning Experience Platform? 

An LXP is a learning platform that improves learner engagement through features including, but not limited to content aggregation, robust analytics and reporting, and adaptive learning. What truly defines an LXP is its focus on user-centric design. It often provides learners with complete autonomy over their training. 

The benefits of leveraging an LXP include:

• Greater support for modalities such as microlearning, blended learning, and hybrid learning
• Increased engagement and better outcomes through AI-driven personalization
• Insight into hidden knowledge and skill gaps through analytics
• The capacity to deliver on-demand training
• Support for continuous learning

Related Content: The Top 10 Learning Experience Platforms in 2025

LMS vs. LXP: Key Differences

While many vendors have started combining the functionality of both, an LXP and a learning management system  differ from one another in a few fundamental ways.

	Learning Experience Platform	Learning Management System
Purpose	Create more engaging experiences for learners	Assist with the delivery and management of training content
Content Delivery	Learner-driven content discovery	Predefined, structured courses developed by instructors
Typical Approach	Self-directed	Instructor-led
User Management	Users can often contribute and curate training alongside instructors	Typically controlled by instructors with fine-grained permissions
Personalization	AI-driven personalization and dynamic learning paths	Typically role-based
Analytics Focus	Engagement, learner satisfaction	Completion rate, competence
Collaboration	Social media-esque features such as likes, comments, and content sharing	Discussion forums and group chats

 

It’s important to note that as the line between learning experience platform and LMS continues to blur, their differences become progressively harder to define. 

Should You Use an LMS or an LXP? 

Both. The idea that you need to choose either an LXP or an LMS is based on the misconception that the former is an evolution of the latter. The reality is that their different areas of focus mean that the two solutions largely compliment one another. 

Learning management systems provide an organization with a framework for developing, managing, and delivering their training. Learning experience platforms ensure the organization’s training is delivered in the most engaging way possible. Combining the two can greatly improve an organization’s training initiatives.