Button Text
Back to overview

Personalized learning platforms: Why they matter + Top 10 picks

Discover why one-size-fits-all training no longer works—and how personalized learning platforms are changing the game. In this blog, we explore the power of personalized learning, compare the top personalized learning platforms and show you how to create tailored, engaging training experiences with FLOWSPARKS. Whether you're just starting or upgrading your L&D strategy, this article will help you make smarter, more impactful choices.

Mieke Van Aalst-Blatter

Customer Success Coach & Projectmanager at FLOWSPARKS

7 min read
10/4/2025
Blog

One-size-fits-all learning simply doesn’t work in today’s diverse workplace, where people have different roles, skills, and learning styles. That’s where personalized learning comes in—adapting content to the learner and turning training into something truly engaging and effective.

And it’s not just a trend—it’s a key driver of what’s next in L&D. Want to stay ahead of the curve? Here’s what you’ll discover in this article:

  1. Why is personalization important in eLearning?
  2. Why is personalized eLearning so powerful?
  3. 10 personalized learning platforms to check in 2025
  4. Six ways to personalize your eLearning with the FLOWSPARKS Authoring Tool
  5. How to choose the best authoring tool for personalized eLearning
  6. Make eLearning a success!

Why is personalization important in eLearning?

You’ve invested in eLearning to train your employees, but the results are disappointing. Engagement is low, training feels generic, and completion rates are underwhelming. Where does the problem lie?

1. One-size-fits-all doesn’t work

Many eLearning programs take a standardized approach without considering individual learning styles, levels, or preferences. This leads to some participants feeling bored while others struggle to keep up. Personalized learning—where content is tailored to the needs and skills of individual users—enhances both motivation and effectiveness.

2. Lack of interaction and engagement

Learning is not a passive activity. Interactive elements such as gamification, simulations, and real-world scenarios make learning more engaging and encourage active participation.

Incorporating gamification into eLearning modules can significantly improve participant engagement and motivation. Using game elements makes the learning process more fun and interactive, leading to better knowledge retention.

3. Insufficient real-world relevance

Many training programs remain too theoretical and lack direct connections to participants’ daily work. When content is not immediately relevant, learners tend to disengage. By incorporating real-world examples and realistic case studies, learning materials become more applicable and valuable.

4. Lack of motivation and rewards


Learning without clear rewards or progress indicators feels meaningless. Offering certificates, badges, or other forms of recognition can boost motivation.

Gamification elements such as rewards and badges serve as tangible acknowledgments of achievements, increasing motivation and encouraging continued participation in the learning process.

5. Too little flexibility

Not everyone learns at the same pace or at the same time. If eLearning is too rigid—such as having fixed deadlines or a strictly linear structure—it can be discouraging.

Implementing flexible learning methods, such as microlearning and on-demand access, allows participants to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, increasing both engagement and effectiveness.

Why are personalized learning platforms so powerful?

eLearning has evolved significantly in recent years, and personalized learning experiences are playing an increasing role. Standard eLearning programs don't work for everyone, and organizations are looking for more effective ways to make learning accessible, relevant and impactful. Personalized learning platforms offer the solution for this. But what are the benefits for organizations, participants and administrators?

For organizations: Scalable solutions for diverse teams

Organizations consist of employees with different backgrounds, levels and learning styles. With personalized learning platforms, companies can tailor training to the specific needs of each employee. This provides:

  • Efficiency - Employees learn exactly what is relevant to them, saving time and costs.
  • Scalability - Training can be easily customized and rolled out for large and diverse teams.
  • Consistent quality - Despite personalization, core content remains consistent and up-to-date.

For participants: More autonomy and motivation through customization

Learning is most effective when it aligns with the needs and interests of the participant. Personalized learning platforms offer a learning program that suits the pace, level, and learning style of each participant. This results in:

  • Higher motivation – Learning feels relevant and challenging, without being overwhelming.
  • More autonomy – Participants can decide how, when, and where they learn.
  • Better knowledge retention – Since the content connects to daily practice, knowledge sticks better.

For administrators: Easy reporting and insights into progress

For HR managers and training coordinators, insight into learning performance is crucial. Personalized learning platforms offer advanced analytics and reporting capabilities, enabling them to:

  • Have real-time insights – Immediate overview of progress, completion rates, and performance.
  • Make data-driven decisions – Optimize training based on user data.
  • Save time – Less manual follow-up with automated reports.

10 Personalized learning platforms to check in 2025

1. FLOWSPARKS

FLOWSPARKS is a versatile eLearning platform that offers both an authoring tool and a Learning Management System (LMS). As one of the leading personalized learning platforms, FLOWSPARKS is designed to deliver tailored and dynamic training experiences. It enables authors to quickly create (with the AI Co-Author), manage, and update digital learning materials, contributing to an efficient and flexible learning experience.

FLOWSPARKS authoring tool webpage for creating personalized eLearning content.

Advantages:

  • User-friendly authoring tool with AI support.
  • Combines an LMS and authoring tool in one platform.
  • Quickly and efficiently create and manage learning materials.
  • Suitable for various sectors.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited recognition compared to larger LMS platforms.
  • Can be expensive for smaller companies.

2. Docebo

This platform combines automation with flexibility, offers AI-driven personalization, and has hundreds of integrations to streamline workflows.

Homepage of Docebo, a cloud-based learning management system.

Advantages:

  • AI-driven personalization for a tailored learning experience.
  • Numerous integration options with other systems.
  • Flexible and scalable for businesses of different sizes.

Disadvantages:

  • Can be complex to implement and manage.

3. Studytube

A Dutch platform that offers AI-driven authoring tools for developing customized training. The platform automates compliance management and offers personalized learning paths based on roles or teams.

Homepage of Studytube, a corporate learning platform.

Advantages:

  • AI-driven authoring tools for efficient content creation.
  • Automation of compliance management.
  • Personalized learning paths for employees.
  • Dutch platform with strong local support.

Disadvantages:

  • Less known outside the Netherlands and Belgium.
  • May be less flexible than open-source alternatives.

4. Adobe Learning Manager


This platform combines automation with personalization for large companies, with AI-driven course recommendations and gamification to increase engagement.

Homepage of Adobe Learning Manager, a personalized learning platform.

Advantages:

  • AI-driven course recommendations.
  • Gamification increases engagement.
  • Strong analytics tools for businesses.
  • Seamless integration with other Adobe products.

Disadvantages:

  • More expensive than many other learning platforms.
  • Learning curve for beginners due to extensive features.

5. Coursera

Offers academic courses and certifications from universities worldwide, with a focus on personalized learning.

Homepage of Coursera, an online learning platform offering courses and certifications.

Advantages:

  • Courses from top universities and companies.
  • Official certificates and diplomas.
  • Flexible learning options (free and paid).

Disadvantages:

  • Certificates can be expensive.
  • Not always interactive (mainly video lessons).

6. Degreed

A platform focused on offering personalized learning experiences through AI-driven recommendations and a wide range of integrations.

Homepage of Degreed, a learning experience platform focused on skill development and personalized learning.

Advantages:

  • AI-driven recommendations based on learning goals.
  • Many integrations with other tools and systems.
  • Strong focus on skills rather than traditional courses.

Disadvantages:

  • Less suitable for beginners seeking structured courses.
  • Can be expensive for smaller companies.

7. Moodle

An open-source learning platform that allows institutions to create personalized learning environments.

Homepage of Moodle, an open-source learning management system for education and training.

Advantages:

  • Open-source and highly customizable.
  • Strong community and many free extensions.
  • Suitable for schools, universities, and businesses.

Disadvantages:

  • Requires technical knowledge to configure and manage.
  • UI and UX are less modern compared to commercial LMS platforms.

8. RapL

RapL offers customized learning paths that adapt to the needs of the learner, using adaptive learning technology and microlearning. This platform promotes learner engagement and motivation through gamification elements.

Homepage of RapL, a learning platform offering microlearning and personalized training paths.

Advantages:

  • Adaptive learning technology that adjusts to the learner.
  • Microlearning and gamification increase motivation.
  • Suitable for continuous and rapid knowledge updates.

Disadvantages:

  • Relatively unknown platform.
  • Less suitable for in-depth, long courses.

9. LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning provides personalized course recommendations based on the goals and interests of individual learners. The platform features high-quality courses from industry experts and encourages collaboration and engagement among learners.

Homepage of LinkedIn Learning

Advantages:

  • Personalized course recommendations based on interests.
  • High-quality courses from industry experts.
  • Strong integration with LinkedIn profiles and career development.

Disadvantages:

  • Subscription required, no one-time purchase options.
  • Less interaction and guidance than traditional courses.

10. Intellum

Intellum offers adaptive learning technology, microlearning, and gamification elements that increase learner motivation. The platform allows users to customize their learning paths according to their needs, although the course offerings may be limited.

Intellum's homepage showcasing their personalized learning platform designed to enhance employee, customer, and partner education.

Advantages:

  • Adaptive learning technology for personalized learning.
  • Microlearning and gamification elements for motivation.
  • Flexible customization options for businesses.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited course offerings compared to larger platforms.
  • Can be costly for smaller organizations.

Six ways to personalize your eLearning with the FLOWSPARKS Authoring Tool

The key to successful training with personalized learning platforms lies in customization and interaction. By adding personalized learning paths, practical content, and motivating elements, you not only increase engagement but also improve learning outcomes.

Want to get more out of your eLearning program? Then it's time to reshape the learning experience with the FLOWSPARKS Authoring Tool!

1. Tailor content to the individual participant

Every participant starts with a different level of knowledge and learning need. Make sure your eLearning addresses this:

  • Use adaptive eLearning programs like the Smart Program FASTLANE. This determines the participant’s knowledge level with an intake test, after which the subsequent program is tailored accordingly.
Screenshot of the FLOWSPARKS Fast Program FASTLANE, used for adaptive and personalized eLearning paths.
  • Use linked modules to create customized programs without extra work. Link relevant modules to specific target groups and offer a tailored learning experience.

2. Increase motivation with gamification

Gamification can give a huge boost to participants' motivation and engagement. Here are some ways to apply it:

  • Use FLOWSPARKS gamification to add points, levels, and rewards to Smart Programs.
  • Integrate challenging exercises and quizzes to keep participants actively engaged with the material.
  • Organize a FLASHCARDS battle, where participants compete for the highest ranking and can earn a reward.
Screenshot of the FLOWSPARKS FLASHCARDS template for interactive and gamified learning.

3. Provide a personalized approach

A personal approach increases engagement and makes participants feel welcome:

  • Greet participants by name, either their first and/or last name. FLOWSPARKS allows you to use different syntax codes.
  • Use dynamic greetings like "Good morning" or "Good afternoon" for an extra personal touch.
Screenshot of FLOWSPARKS' smart program CROSSROADS, perfect for personalized elearning

4. Connect to real-life practice: ‘What’s in it for me?’

Participants want to know why a training is relevant to their job. You can do this by:

  • Adding realistic examples and practical situations to your eLearning.
  • Using didactically strong formats like STORYWISE, ONTHESPOT, or DECIDENOW to make cases more interactive and effective.
Screenshot of FLOWSPARKS' Learning Format ONTHESPOT

5. Create micro-learnings and let participants define their own learning path

Flexible learning is becoming increasingly important. With micro-learnings, participants can learn at their own pace:

  • Use FLOWSPARKS Learning Formats and Smart Templates to create short eLearning modules.
  • Offer micro-learnings in a catalog, allowing participants to build their own learning path.

6. Monitor progress and keep your eLearning up to date

ELearning is an ongoing process. Make sure to track participants’ progress and regularly update your modules:

  • Unlike many static solutions, you can use personalized learning platforms like FLOWSPARKS to gain real-time insights into participants’ progress and performance.
  • Easily adjust your eLearning without interruptions, even when working with your own LMS. Thanks to remote-SCORM or LTI integration, updates are immediately visible to users.

How to choose the best authoring tool for personalized eLearning?

Developing effective and personalized eLearning starts with the right authoring tool. With the right software, you can create interactive, flexible, and tailored learning experiences. But with so many options on the market, what should you look out for?

1. Ease of Use

When comparing personalized learning platforms, ease of use is a key factor—especially for teams without technical backgrounds. A user-friendly interface saves time and allows teams to quickly develop high-quality content.

2. Personalization and Adaptive Learning Features

Personalized eLearning requires tools that can adjust content based on the user's needs. Look for:

  • Adaptive learning paths that change based on performance
  • Interactivity and gamification to make the learning experience more engaging
  • Multimedia capabilities such as videos, simulations, and quizzes

3. Integration Options with LMS and Other Systems

The authoring tool should seamlessly integrate with your Learning Management System (LMS) and other software. Check if the tool is remote SCORM or LTI-compatible for LMS integration.

4. Analytics and Reporting Features

To measure whether your personalized eLearning is effective, you need insights into user progress and performance. Choose a tool with:

  • Real-time data tracking for learning progress
  • Reporting options to analyze learning performance

Make eLearning a success!

Personalized eLearning is not a luxury but a necessity in a world where learning is becoming more dynamic and individualized. By focusing on customization, interactive elements, and flexibility, you not only increase participant engagement but also enhance the effectiveness of your training.

Want to take your eLearning to the next level and truly make an impact? Explore the possibilities of personalization and take the next step toward a learning experience that inspires, motivates, and delivers results!

Contact us and discover how FLOWSPARKS can transform your eLearning.

Frequently Asked Questions

⚡ Why is personalization important in eLearning?

Personalization is essential because one-size-fits-all training no longer works in today’s diverse workplace. Employees have different roles, skills, and learning preferences—so training that’s too generic can feel irrelevant or ineffective. Personalized eLearning makes learning more engaging by tailoring content to the individual, which leads to better motivation, higher completion rates, and more meaningful outcomes.

⚡ How do I choose the best authoring tool for personalized eLearning?

To create effective personalized eLearning, choose an authoring tool that’s user-friendly and supports adaptive learning, gamification, and multimedia content. Seamless LMS integration and robust analytics are also important to track progress and improve content over time. Tools like FLOWSPARKS make it easy to build tailored experiences that adapt to learners’ needs and keep training fresh.

What are some ideas to personalize my eLearning?

With FLOWSPARKS, personalization starts with adapting to each learner’s needs. Use Smart Program FASTLANE to assess knowledge levels and tailor content accordingly, or link specific modules to different target groups. Keep learners motivated through gamification—add points, quizzes, or organize a FLASHCARDS battle. You can also personalize greetings, create micro-learnings that allow learners to pick their own path, and use interactive formats like ONTHESPOT to make content feel more relevant. Plus, real-time tracking ensures your eLearning stays fresh and effective.

Are you looking to scale up your digital training efforts
inside your organization?

Schedule a demo and discover how FLOWSPARKS helps create and deliver engaging e-Learning experiences backed by strong instructional design principles in multiple languages without a hassle.

Get a demo

More interesting reads

Stay ahead of the curve: 10 Game-changing L&D trends in 2025
Stay ahead of the curve: 10 Game-changing L&D trends in 2025

Stay ahead of the curve: 10 Game-changing L&D trends in 2025

Discover the top 10 game-changing L&D and eLearning trends shaping the future of workplace learning. From AI-powered platforms to immersive VR experiences and mobile-first microlearning, this blog explores how to make training more engaging, effective, and future-proof in 2025 and beyond.
Blog
Stay ahead of the curve: 10 Game-changing L&D trends in 2025
Stay ahead of the curve: 10 Game-changing L&D trends in 2025
30 Years of FLOWSPARKS in the Netherlands
30 Years of FLOWSPARKS in the Netherlands

30 Years of FLOWSPARKS in the Netherlands

This year marks a milestone for FLOWSPARKS Netherlands BV, as the company proudly celebrates its 30th anniversary. For three decades, FLOWSPARKS has been on an impressive journey of innovation and excellence in learning and development with our state-of-the-art SaaS e-Learning software.

Blog
30 Years of FLOWSPARKS in the Netherlands
30 Years of FLOWSPARKS in the Netherlands
How to Distribute Your e-Learning Content
How to Distribute Your e-Learning Content

How to Distribute Your e-Learning Content

Imagine streamlining your content distribution to e-Learning platforms effortlessly. No more tedious manual tasks or repetitive course uploads for minor changes. Simplify your workflow and embrace seamless content distribution with FLOWSPARKS.

Blog
How to Distribute Your e-Learning Content
How to Distribute Your e-Learning Content
Back to overview