Although learning indicators are now properly studied and published, it is still very difficult to manage them freely within most distance learning platforms. As all activity indicators need to collect and analyze properly traces of the learning activity, we propose to use these traces as a starting point for a platform independent Trace Based-Indicator Management System (TB-IMS). This approach allows learning indicators to be created and reused in such a way that there is no need to modify the computer code of the learning platform. This paper presents the underlying theory and how this theory is implemented in a first TB-IMS. This TB-IMS is illustrated through an actual learning situation based on a Moodle platform. This approach is compared with similar attempts to manage learning indicators properly and is available for use with any other learning platform, provided the TB-IMS can access the learning platform traces.