ADL Open Source LRS vs GrassBlade LRS

ADL Open Source LRS stores learning data collected through the Experience API, or xAPI. The repository says this version conforms to IEEE 9274.1.1, also known as xAPI 2.0, and describes it as stable but intended for proof-of-concept use with a small number of users. It is free and distributed under the Apache License, Version 2.0.

Docker and Docker Compose are the recommended installation route. The deployment includes a Django web service using uWSGI, an nginx HTTP/HTTPS proxy, PostgreSQL, RabbitMQ, and Redis. OAuth is off by default; the project describes enabling it with the OAUTH_ENABLED setting and registering clients with the LRS. Optional webhooks can filter incoming statements and send matches to a client endpoint, and they are disabled by default. A webhook can include a secret used to send an HMAC hex digest in the X-LRS-Signature header. Celery handles activity metadata retrieval, statement voiding, and LRS hooks asynchronously. Database settings can be changed in settings.ini. The Docker guide describes an included Certbot container for obtaining a certificate for a public domain and restarting nginx to use it.

GrassBlade LRS is a Learning Record Store for retaining eLearning data and reporting on xAPI ecosystems. It is offered as a cloud-hosted service or an on-premise installation; the self-hosted edition uses PHP/MySQL servers and can keep data on the customer’s server. Reports can be filtered and customized, downloaded as PDF or CSV, and sent by automated email. Quiz reports cover multiple attempts and learner-performance comparisons for tools including Storyline, Rise, Captivate, and iSpring. Video reporting includes activity data, completion and gradebook reports, and progress heatmaps. GrassBlade Cloud LRS supports xAPI, SCORM, and cmi5 content from listed authoring tools. An app is included with all plans for Android, iPhone, iPad, and MacBook with Apple silicon. Listed integrations include learning platforms, Vimeo, Zapier, Dropbox, and H5P.org. Pricing starts at $12/mo (annual); there is no free plan or free trial. Plans are billed yearly, with listed prices including $66 a year for Essential and $144 a year for Lite.