Guide

TMS vs. LMS: why one isn’t enough

Struggling to manage complex training logistics with tools that weren’t built for the job? This guide breaks down the real differences between a TMS and an LMS—so you can pick the system that actually supports your training operations:

    • Learn the key differences between a TMS and LMS—so you choose the right system for your needs.
    • Understand how a TMS streamlines operations like scheduling, resource planning, and compliance tracking.
    • Get practical examples of how enterprise teams scale training without spreadsheets or manual work.

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“A TMS means not having to: ask 500 instructors what their vacation schedule is, look in different spreadsheets for rooms, buildings, flight simulators, or what tractors are available to be in the classroom. It's a huge investment every quarter.”
Headshot of John Leh.

John Leh

CEO and Lead Analyst, Talented Learning

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You can get more out of your LMS

ILT is a manual mess

Copying, pasting, tweaking—building live training in an LMS takes way too long.

Too many moving parts

Instructor schedules, venue changes, last-minute updates—none of it fits neatly in your LMS.

Your data is scattered

Spreadsheets everywhere, reports nowhere. You can’t improve what you can’t see.

A central TMS integrates with key systems—CRM, HRIS, LMS/LXP, training websites, calendars, financial tools, and reporting—creating a unified hub for managing enterprise training operations. This diagram from Administrate shows the TMS as the operational core, connecting and syncing data across all training-related platforms.

Your TMS is the system that holds it all together

Your LMS handles content. Your HRIS tracks people. But only a TMS connects the dots—so training actually runs smoothly.

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Why you’ll probably need a TMS and an LMS

Ready to streamline your training operations? Grab the guide and see how.

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