"Because LMSs and LCMSs are so complex, they need a wide variety of tools for their creation. One of these learning systems is one of the only places on the web where one would find an IT person, a graphic designer, a curriculum writer, a flash animator, an online filmmaker, and a host of other people all collaborating on one project. Thusly, many tools are needed, not only to create the media assets of the system, but also to write the web code and the course text and content. I have come to realize that the project manager for any LMS does not have a very easy job, and is required to either have OCD, or be the most organized person on the face of the earth."
John, I agree that an incredible number of people may be required to create sophisticated LMS and LCMS systems. Additionally, these programs are developed to meet a wide range of criteria for their clients. It is easy to understand the seemingly high price tag attached to these products. For this reason, many administrators, especially of small, financially strapped schools, are tempted to go with the least expensive bare-bones solution. I have also experienced an administrator who bought the "5 star package" but refused to pay for the training. Later, he complained that the money on the system was wasted, since we weren't using even half of the features. I don't really know if the unused aspects of the program were a good fit for our school, or if we would have been better served by a less expensive product, but I do believe that when changing to a new management system, training is essential for optimum results.
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