In a previous article, we explored how AI breathes new life into the classic ADDIE model (check it out here). But instructional design isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach—and ADDIE isn’t the only model in town.

In today’s world of learning and development, professionals are embracing alternative frameworks like SAM, Agile/LLAMA, and Design Thinking to match the need for flexibility, speed, and collaboration. This article dives into these models and shows how modern tools like Mindsmith can help bring them to life, without sacrificing structure or quality.

Because let’s face it: learning design, like a good recipe, can vary widely. And the best results often come from knowing which method to use—and when to adapt it.

The Role of Instructional Design Models in eLearning

Instructional design models provide a structured framework to analyze, plan, develop, and evaluate training programs. Whether you’re creating a compliance course, onboarding new hires, or rolling out product training, these models help learning professionals build purposeful, goal-aligned experiences.

Not every model fits every project, though—and that’s okay. It’s kind of like mac and cheese: everyone knows the dish, but each household puts its own spin on it. Some bake it, others stir it on the stovetop, and a few swear by a breadcrumb topping or a dash of hot sauce. Same core ingredients, different flavor.

Instructional design models work the same way. They aim for the same outcome—effective, satisfying learning—but the approach varies depending on the context and style. That’s why the ability to adapt and move fluidly between models is becoming a must-have skill in modern L&D teams.

Comparing Key Instructional Design Models

Let’s break down four prominent instructional design models, their strengths, and their modern-day relevance:

ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate)

ADDIE is a classic and still widely used linear and systematic model best suited for well-defined training projects. Each phase builds on the last:

• Analyze: Identify learning needs, audience characteristics, and goals.

• Design: Plan instructional strategies, content structure, and assessment methods.

• Develop: Create the learning content and materials.

• Implement: Deliver the training through the chosen platforms or modalities.

• Evaluate: Assess effectiveness and gather feedback for future iterations.

Strengths: Structured, methodical, scalable for large projects.

Limitations: Slower to execute, can feel rigid in fast-changing environments.

SAM (Successive Approximation Model)

SAM, introduced by Allen Interactions, embraces an iterative, agile approach. It emphasizes prototyping and continuous feedback, breaking the design cycle into small, manageable chunks:

• Preparation Phase: Define outcomes and gather requirements.

• Iterative Design Phase: Design, prototype, review, and revise.

• Iterative Development Phase: Build modules, review, and refine until ready.

Strengths: Encourages collaboration, rapid development, and flexibility.

Limitations: Requires close client/stakeholder involvement throughout.

Agile/LLAMA (Lot Like Agile Management Approach)

Agile methodologies, adapted from software development, have found their way into learning design through approaches like LLAMA (used by TorranceLearning). These promote working in short sprints, emphasizing collaboration, feedback, and constant improvement.

• Sprint Cycles: Break projects into manageable units.

• Backlogs & User Stories: Prioritize content based on impact and feasibility.

• Team Collaboration: Cross-functional roles iterate and adapt in real-time.

Strengths: Highly responsive, learner-centric, and perfect for evolving business needs.

Limitations: Can be hard to scale without the right team structure.

Design Thinking

Originally from product and UX design, Design Thinking has gained traction in L&D for its human-centered approach. It emphasizes empathy and creativity to design learning experiences that truly resonate.

• Empathize: Understand learner challenges and needs.

• Define: Clarify the problem.

• Ideate: Brainstorm creative solutions.

• Prototype: Develop low-fidelity learning interventions.

• Test: Collect feedback and refine.

Strengths: Learner-first, supports innovation, and encourages experimentation.

Limitations: May require cultural shifts in organizations used to rigid structures.

Instructional Design in the Modern Era

The way we design training is shifting—and fast. LinkedIn's 2024 Workplace Learning Report highlights that 90% of organizations are concerned about employee retention, and upskilling is their top strategy to address it.

While ADDIE remains a reliable framework for structured learning, it can be too rigid for environments where needs evolve quickly. That’s where agile models like SAM (Successive Approximation Model) come in—enabling iterative development, quick feedback loops, and faster delivery.

A compelling real-world example of blending instructional design models comes from the Institut Mines-Télécom (IMT), a network of French graduate engineering schools. IMT developed a blended learning program that combined online MOOCs with hands-on workshops in FabLabs. This approach allowed learners to acquire theoretical knowledge online and apply it practically in physical spaces, effectively merging the structured analysis of ADDIE with the iterative prototyping of SAM. The program not only enhanced learner engagement but also led to higher certification rates and improved job readiness among participants.

This hybrid approach—combining traditional models with agile practices—empowers learning professionals to build experiences that are both thoughtful and flexible. With tools like Mindsmith, adapting these methods becomes not only possible but efficient.

How Mindsmith Supports a Model-Agnostic Approach

Mindsmith’s platform is built to flex across instructional design approaches. Here's how it enhances each model:

• ADDIE-friendly workflows: Use Mindsmith’s structured content blocks, planning tools, and templated course maps to clearly follow each ADDIE phase.

• Rapid prototyping for SAM: Mindsmith makes it easy to iterate quickly, with instant previews, in-line feedback tools, and collaborative editing.

• Agile-ready collaboration: Assign tasks, update backlogs, and roll out changes sprint by sprint using Mindsmith’s project-friendly interface.

• Empathy-driven design: Use Mindsmith’s AI to draft personalized content based on learner profiles, helping align with Design Thinking methodologies.

  
  

Final Thoughts: Evolving from Models to Mindsets

Instructional design isn’t about picking the perfect model—it’s about staying flexible and responsive. Just like cooking a favorite dish, sometimes you follow the recipe to a tee, and other times you adjust on the fly based on what you have and who you're serving.

Modern tools like Mindsmith empower learning professionals to do both. Whether you're leaning on the structure of ADDIE or iterating fast with SAM, the platform supports you in delivering meaningful learning—quickly and with quality.

Ready to bridge theory and practice? Try Mindsmith today and build smarter, faster, and more flexible learning experiences.