Section 3 

3. Commercial e Learning Repository Systems 

3.1 Overview 

Whilst the previous section has considered learning repository initiatives, the aims of this 

section are to: 

Define the types of commercial systems relevant to the application of learning 

repositories 

Review six commercial repository systems 

Highlight potential areas of interest to JORUM 

Many commercial learning repository systems are emerging in the marketplace and close 

observation of them is required. Some have been developed in a non commercial 

environment, such as a university. Others may be based on systems that were originally 

developed for other purposes which have then been `converted' or re branded to target the 

growing demand of products in the education marketplace. This section provides some 

information on existing learning repository solutions and highlights solutions that may be of 

interest in the future for JORUM due to its ever changing requirements. 

The JORUM team have produced a separate report on Open Source systems that could be 

used for a future JORUM, and open source solutions are therefore excluded from this report. 

3.2 Definitions of Commercial e Learning Repositories 

We have already (p. 6) defined a repository as;  

Enabling the storage, discovery and retrieval of metadata and/or electronic objects stored at a 

local or distributed level. 

Repository software applications have evolved dramatically over the past 20 years, from the 

development of basic document management systems and automated version control, to the 

innovation and inclusion of knowledge management and artificial intelligence. The application 

of repository systems to the world of e learning is often confused by a myriad of technical 

jargon and marketing hype. Learning repository projects have often responded with the 

implementation of their own bespoke system, or the adoption of an open source solution. It is 

important not to underestimate the degree to which commercial repository solutions are often 

based on proven technology and recognise the benefits they can bring to the e learning 

community.  

The following four definitions illustrate the types of repository systems that are applicable to 

learning repositories: 

3.2.1 Document Management Systems 

A system for the storage, tracking and retrieval of single electronic files. Document 

management system typical provide functionality such as version control, check in and check 

out of documents, automated workflow, groups, roles, permissions and a powerful search 

engine. The metadata schemas are often customised to meet the requirements of the client, 

and the types of documents they need to store. The focus of a document management 

system is almost always around security and not interoperability. 

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