Cornerstone OnDemand is one of the most popular Learning Management Systems on the market right now, but many organizations are starting to explore alternative options that may better suit their specific business needs.
In this article, we’ll cover why organizations are seeking Cornerstone alternatives and present a curated list of the top contenders based on real user reviews.
We’ll also provide top tips on choosing an LMS that suits your unique organizational needs.
Disclaimer: The information below is accurate as of January 28th, 2024.
Why look for an alternative to Cornerstone OnDemand?
Whether it’s due to changing needs or the need for a more user-friendly experience, many businesses find themselves evaluating Cornerstone alternatives.
Based on user feedback, here are a few reasons why:
Reason 1: User experience challenges
Many users find Cornerstone’s interface to be cumbersome and not intuitive — leading to a steep learning curve.
As one user points out on G2, “It’s very bulky, takes a while to learn how to use, not particularly user-friendly or interactive.”
This sentiment is also echoed by another user about its ease of use, “I’m very quick with technology and learn fast, but Cornerstone aggravates me.”
Reason 2: Poor roadmap transparency
Feedback from users indicates that changes in the product roadmap are not always well-communicated.
As a result, this leaves users uncertain about future updates and features they might have been anticipating.
According to one user, “There are also times when the road map changes are not publicized enough so you may be hoping for a project on the roadmap that then doesn’t appear.”
Reason 3: Limited reporting and performance management tools
Another common point of dissatisfaction revolves around the platform’s reporting and performance management capabilities.
Users seek more comprehensive and user-friendly tools for observation checklists and performance tracking.
As noted in a Gartner review, “The lack of observation checklist abilities — reporting is very limited in this area as well.”
Now, let’s delve into the top 10 alternatives that address these pain points and offer better learning experiences.
Top 10 Cornerstone Alternatives on the Market Right Now
While Cornerstone offers robust solutions, various alternatives in the market might better suit your organization’s unique needs.
From better user interfaces to superior support systems, each alternative brings something unique to the table:
- Docebo
- TalentLMS
- Absorb LMS
- Blackboard Learn
- LearnUpon
- 360Learning
- Bridge LMS
- Workday
- Trakstar Learn
- Moodle
1. Docebo
Docebo is an AI-powered LMS that focuses on delivering hyper-personalized learning experiences.
As a cloud-based LMS, Docebo provides an interactive learning experience that caters to the evolving needs of modern learners and organizations.
Using Docebo for your learning and development needs, you can:
- Craft unique learning experiences that resonate with individual learner preferences and requirements.
- Simplify admin tasks and focus more on strategic learning initiatives.
- Make the learning process both enjoyable and effective for learners.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Dynamic learning paths tailored to individual learner profiles.
- An extensive content library that caters to diverse learning needs.
- Gamification and social learning features to enhance learner motivation and interaction.
- Intuitive user interface that simplifies the learning experience for both learners and administrators.
- Robust analytics and reporting for tracking learning impact and ROI.
Why switch from Cornerstone to Docebo
Compared to Cornerstone, Docebo offers a more intuitive and learner-centric platform.
It excels in delivering a personalized and engaging learning experience, backed by powerful AI capabilities and seamless integration options.
Here is what real users have to say about Docebo:
- “The whole process was very structured and well-thought. Customer support is fast and reliable.”
- “Docebo Learn is intuitive and customizable, with various plugins to integrate with your organization’s suite.”
- “Docebo’s user interface customization creates a friendly environment that aligns with our brand image.”
- “Its AI-powered recommendations have significantly improved our learning engagement.”
- “The customization and integration capabilities of Docebo have been game changers for our L&D initiatives.”
- “Docebo’s analytics have given us insightful data to continuously improve our training programs.”
Best suited for
Docebo is ideal for organizations seeking an AI-powered LMS that fosters a culture of continuous learning and development while keeping their employees engaged.
2. TalentLMS
TalentLMS is a user-friendly LMS designed to streamline corporate learning and training for organizations.
The platform’s flexibility in importing content from various sources further enhances its appeal as a Cornerstone alternative.
It also helps to establish detailed learning paths and rules, ensuring that learners remain focused throughout their training journey.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Drag-and-drop functionality and support for various media types.
- Customizable learning paths with completion rules.
- Unlimited sub-accounts for different teams and departments.
Why users like TalentLMS (according to G2)
- “It’s responsive, easy to use, and customizable.” Bruno M.
- “No need to be a professional designer to get up and running.” Chris G.
- “Their customer service is great.” Marshall S.
Best suited for
TalentLMS is particularly well-suited for organizations looking for an easy-to-use course management platform to kickstart or enhance their e-learning initiatives.
3. Absorb LMS
Absorb LMS is a cloud-based LMS that simplifies the creation of e-learning courses.
The platform caters to various learning styles with diverse content formats like text, images, videos, and interactive quizzes.
The platform’s integration capabilities with various content libraries and tools make it a flexible solution for different training scenarios, including employee onboarding and compliance training.
G2 Rating
Key features
- AI-powered learning paths for a personalized learning experience.
- Customizable options for branding alignment and specific training needs.
- Advanced reporting tools and analytics for insights into learner progress and training effectiveness.
Why users like Absorb LMS (according to G2)
- “It has a clean, intuitive navigation.” Angie B.
- “It has detailed and very thorough settings.” Steve F.
- “It simplifies content uploading, creation, and customisation.” Christopher M.
Best suited for
Absorb LMS is ideal for organizations looking for an LMS that can provide on-demand, simplified, and flexible learning experiences, from employee onboarding to advanced professional development.
4. Blackboard Learn
Blackboard Learn is a comprehensive LMS that meets the diverse needs of learners across various education levels, including K-12 and higher education.
The platform stands out as a top Cornerstone alternative for its learner-centric design that emphasizes engagement, interaction, and quality learning experiences.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Dynamic assessment delivery with a variety of question types and real-time assessment capabilities.
- Robust grading and reporting features.
- Strong administration support with mobile compatibility.
Why users like Blackboard Learn (according to G2)
- “It’s easy to build courses and review learning.” Vanessa S.
- “It provides a decent mobile experience.” Nuzhath F.
- “The interface is easy to use.” Justin G.
Best suited for
Blackboard Learn is an ideal choice for educational institutions and organizations looking for an LMS platform that supports collaborative learning experiences.
5. LearnUpon
LearnUpon is a flexible learning management software program that offers an intuitive platform for efficient training delivery.
Compared to Cornerstone LMS, the platform is particularly effective for streamlining administrative tasks and focuses on creating impactful learning experiences at any scale.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Flexible course authoring that includes a course builder and assessments & quizzes.
- Efficient course delivery supported by learning paths and effective communication tools.
- Advanced course management capabilities, including support for varied user types and certification management.
Why users like LearnUpon (according to G2)
- “It simplifies courses, exams, and surveys.” Miranda G.
- “It is user-friendly, even for those without a lot of tech experience.” Leslie D.
- It has the internal expertise and guidance to get your organization up and running in a timely manner.” Jennifer R.
Best suited for
LearnUpon is ideal for businesses looking to train diverse audiences under one roof — from employee training and customer education to partner training.
6. 360Learning
360Learning is an LMS that combines AI and collaborative learning to transform in-house expertise into learning and development (L&D) resources.
Compared to Cornerstone, the platform focuses on collaboration and upskilling, making it easier for organizations to foster continuous learning internally.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Human Capital Management (HCM)/Human Resource Information System (HRIS) syncs with learning data and analytics to streamline data management.
- Off-the-shelf learning content for easy integration of high-quality content into the learning catalog, reducing content costs.
- Workflow integration into commonly used tools like Salesforce, MS Teams, and Zoom.
Why users like 360Learning (according to G2)
- “The set-up process is easy and smooth.” Cathy B.
- “It offers the possibility to create, download or broadcast several types of training content” Karen P.
- “It allows for exchanges between groups of learners.” Aurélie C.
Best suited for
360Learning is ideal for organizations looking for a collaborative LMS to leverage internal expertise for content creation.
7. Bridge LMS
Bridge LMS is a multifaceted learning and performance platform, designed to enhance employee development and engagement in organizations.
When compared with Cornerstone, the platform stands out for its ability to streamline the training process, making learning more organized and impactful.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Integrated performance management tools for performance reviews, goal tracking, and employee engagement surveys.
- AI-powered recommendations for effective upskilling and reskilling.
- Seamless integration with a variety of HRIS and SSO platforms.
Why users like Bridge LMS (according to G2)
- “It allows us to meet multiple audiences and continue growth and development.” Amy R.
- “On the learner side things seem to work very well.” Andrew H.
- “It is easy to upload SCORM files into the site and it sends out notification of a new course added.” Alyssa M.
Best suited for
Bridge LMS is ideal for organizations looking for an LMS that prioritizes and supports employee skills development and enhancement.
8. Workday
Workday is a comprehensive learning and training platform that offers a range of programs and learning formats to cater to diverse organizational needs.
Its flexibility and user-friendly design also make it a strong competitor to Cornerstone in the market.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Workday Pro — An accreditation program for in-house Workday expertise, enhancing competency and efficiency.
- Workday Success plans — Subscription-based service plans, providing exclusive resources and expertise for a deeper Workday understanding.
- Flexible learning formats — Offering various learning methods, including virtual courses, in-person workshops, and on-demand learning.
Why users like Workday (according to G2)
- “Anyone can create content, it’s so easy and looks professional and is simple to digest.” Lori H.
- “It’s easy to monitor the learning activity and progress.” Erwin W.
- “I like the availability of all my paper documents online in a cloud-based server.” Jordan C.
Best suited for
Workday is ideal for organizations seeking a customizable, user-friendly learning platform for employee skill development and training.
9. Trakstar Learn
Trakstar Learn is an online training platform that allows human resources (HR) leaders to build better training systems, learning paths, and onboarding programs.
When compared to Cornerstone, the platform is ideal for handling diverse and complex training needs — from regulatory compliance to skill-gap training.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Import and convert existing course content while retaining animations, embedded videos, and audio.
- Offers mobile-friendly learning, enabling access to courses from anywhere.
- Customizable course creation with assessments and quizzes tailored to specific training needs.
Why users like Trakstar Learn (according to G2)
- “It’s easy to create modules and courses.” Erika G.
- “The interface is easy to use and manage.” Alicia O.
- “I am able to easily track and see which trainees are signed up for what courses and their progress on each.” Matt S.
Best suited for
Trakstar Learn is particularly suitable for enterprises, healthcare facilities, and government organizations looking for a flexible and scalable LMS.
10. Moodle
Moodle is an open-source LMS that offers extensive customization and scalability, making it suitable for a wide range of educational and training purposes.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Comprehensive course authoring with role-based templates, assessments, quizzes, and instructor-led training modules.
- Flexible course delivery with communication tools, and assignment scheduling to facilitate learning.
- Advanced training and e-learning capabilities.
Why users like Moodle (according to G2)
- “Simple and easy to navigate.” Keny C.
- “It is easy to upload files for the students to download for projects.” Todd P.
- “The coding in Moodle allows us to even change the names of buttons, items, etc.” Andrew L.
Best suited for
Moodle is ideal for educational institutions and any organization looking for a customizable, scalable, and accessible online learning solution.
How to choose the best Cornerstone alternative
When choosing an LMS, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that it matches your organization’s needs and goals.
These factors include:
- Pricing: Compare pricing models to find a solution that offers the features you need within your budget. However, don’t just consider the subscription costs alone. You also want to confirm if there are any additional fees for customization, support, or additional modules.
- Integrations: Your new LMS should seamlessly integrate with your existing tech stack or systems like HRIS, CRM, and other software tools. These integrations will help you streamline workflows and enhance the efficiency of your learning management and administrative tasks.
- Content library: An extensive content library can be a game changer as it offers a wealth of pre-built courses created by subject matter experts. So, look for an LMS with a diverse content library that fits into your training goals and offers flexibility in course selection.
- Reporting: Effective reporting tools are essential for tracking learner progress, engagement, and the overall impact of your training programs. Choose an LMS that provides detailed analytics and customizable reporting options to go along with your organization’s evaluation criteria.
- Security: Given the sensitive nature of training data, security should be a top priority. Ensure that the LMS you choose has robust security protocols to protect data privacy while staying in compliance with regulatory standards.
- Use cases: Whether it’s for employee onboarding, compliance training, or continuous professional development, your LMS should be capable of supporting these various training scenarios.
- Artificial intelligence: AI-powered LMS platforms offer personalized learning experiences, automate content management, and track learner progress. So, look for an LMS that uses AI to help enhance the learning experience and offer adaptive learning paths.
- Support: Evaluate the level of customer support offered. A responsive and knowledgeable support team is crucial for troubleshooting, training, and general assistance whenever necessary.
Cornerstone Isn’t Right for Every Business
While Cornerstone Learning is a popular choice, it might not be the perfect fit for your organization’s unique learning and development needs.
Now it’s your turn to weigh these Cornerstone alternatives we’ve highlighted against your specific requirements.
Consider their features and other factors like ease of use, scalability, content variety, and your budget.
Remember, the right learning management solution can transform your training efforts and drive meaningful progress within your organization.
So, if you’re considering a robust, user-friendly, and AI-enhanced LMS, Docebo might just be what you need.
Schedule a demo today to explore how its AI-powered platform can elevate your training programs.