Without a Launch mechanism

Without a launch mechanism, an LMS has no way to present material to a learner. The launch mechanism defines a common way for LMSs to start web-based learning resources.

Of course, much content has been launched without SCORM over the years, but the key difference is that the SCORM provides a common, well-documented way to launch learning resources. LMSs and SCOs (Sharable Content Objects) that adhere to the SCORM can interoperate because of this common launch mechanism. Other ways of launching learning resources may work only with specific learning management systems.