SSO (Single Sign-On)

Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication method that lets users access multiple applications with one set of login credentials — typically their corporate account — instead of maintaining separate usernames and passwords for each system. In an HR and L&D context, SSO means an employee who is already signed into the company environment can open the LMS, HRIS, or any connected tool without logging in again. Behind the scenes, SSO relies on identity standards such as SAML 2.0 or OpenID Connect (OIDC), with identity providers like Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD), Google Workspace, or Okta confirming the user's identity to each application. The benefits are concrete: fewer forgotten passwords and support tickets, faster adoption of new tools because access is frictionless, and stronger security, since IT controls authentication centrally and can enforce multi-factor authentication and immediate deactivation of departing employees across all systems. For learning platforms specifically, SSO measurably increases usage — every login barrier reduces voluntary learning activity. SSO support via SAML or OIDC is now a standard requirement in any enterprise software evaluation, including LMS selection.