ADDIE Model: The 5 Phases of Instructional Design

A benchmark in the field of instructional design for over 30 years, the ADDIE model is rooted in the principles of social learning theories and constructivism. It’s a tool that secures and structures the development of training, whether online or in-person. Lemon Learning explains everything about this powerful instructional design model.

What is the ADDIE Model?

The ADDIE model is an acronym that stands for Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. This instructional design model follows a sequential process. With SMART objectives (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) set at each stage, the ADDIE model proposes an integrated approach to learning. It can be used for creating online, in-person, blended, individual, or group training sessions. This process aims to optimize the expected positive outcomes of training while minimizing project costs.

The 5 Phases of the ADDIE Model

The ADDIE model is one of the most effective change management tools for deploying personalized training programs, whether online or in-person. Key factors such as educational objectives, learner profiles, and opportunities for innovation in learning are carefully analyzed throughout the process.

1. Analysis

This phase is all about diagnosing the overall training needs. The design team identifies the skills to be developed and how they will be assessed. The analysis also involves understanding the characteristics of the target audience. The ADDIE model ensures that the training is tailored to meet real learner needs. At this stage, the designer also defines time and budget constraints related to the project.

2. Design

The instructional designer creates the project’s blueprint by transforming the identified skills into SMART learning objectives. By the end of this phase, a prototype of the knowledge delivery mechanism is produced. The blueprint details:

• The appropriate learning strategies,
• The timeframe and structure of the training,
• The most effective learning methods (coaching, mentoring, role-play, simulations, etc.).

The designer also selects suitable instructional materials and specifies the learning organization methods. For example, when adopting business software, the team may choose an all-in-one product suite that empowers employees to use the digital tool daily.

3. Development

During this phase, learning resources such as course materials, technological tools, and media are created or updated to meet the objectives. If existing materials are available, they should be adapted accordingly. For large-scale e-learning projects, it’s often best to rely on an experienced team of specialists to develop the necessary tools. A great example is Lemon Learning’s digital adoption guide.

4. Implementation

In the ADDIE model, implementation refers to the practical aspects of delivering the training. Learners gain full access to the learning system, whether in-person, online, or blended. The training team manages logistics, communicates with learners, and monitors their engagement with the instructional strategies. This phase ensures that all training activities proceed as planned.

5. Evaluation

Evaluation is conducted throughout and after the training. The effectiveness, relevance, and quality of the learning process are assessed. This can include surveys to gather feedback from learners. Cost analysis is also crucial, comparing predicted expenses with actual costs. In the ADDIE model, evaluations are conducted at every stage, allowing adjustments before moving to the next phase.

Advantages and Limitations of the ADDIE Model

The simplicity of implementation and the clear structure focused on SMART objectives are the main advantages of the ADDIE model in instructional design. When executed by specialized professionals, it becomes a key element of change management models used in organizations. The success of the ADDIE model depends largely on the quality of the initial analysis. However, in its linear form, the model can be somewhat rigid compared to more agile change management tools.

Simple and easy to implement, the ADDIE model enables the creation of efficient, custom-designed training programs. At Lemon Learning, we can help you explore the possibilities of integrating our digital adoption platform into this interesting instructional design model.