Purpose: This empirical study was carried out to examine predictors of perceived usefulness of the learning management system (LMS) from the viewpoint of distance learning students of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) Islamabad. Design/methodology/approach: This study used a positivist paradigm and a correlation research design. The information success model was adopted as a theoretical framework. The unit of analysis was postgraduate students from four departments, enrolled at AIOU, Islamabad. Out of a population of 836, using a stratified sample technique, 260 students were selected as a target sample size. Next, a cross-sectional survey method was applied, and a close-ended 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was adopted to collect data from the target samples, yielding an 88.2% (n = 247) response rate. Findings: The study found a positive perception of respondents regarding the "information quality," "system quality," "readiness for online learning," "service quality," "use of LMS," "perceived usefulness" and "user satisfaction" of Aaghi LMS. The findings of the multiple standard regression analysis depicted that all five variables (i.e. information quality, system quality, readiness for online learning, service quality and user satisfaction [independent variables]) were the most influencing factors of "perceived usefulness (dependent variable) except for LMS use." These empirical results have proved that online and distance learning (ODL) students in Pakistan are adopting web-based integrated systems and/or LMS to fulfill their educational and learning needs. Based on the findings, suggestions were given for more effective and efficient use of Aaghi LMS. Originality/value: This is a unique empirical research study that investigated the adoption of LMS from the viewpoint of distance learning students in Pakistan. The results of the study contribute significantly to the current literature on the adoption as well as acceptance of LMS by ODL students for academic activities.