What is ADDIE model?
Also called: ADDIE · ADDIE instructional design modelDefinition
The ADDIE model is a five-phase framework for designing training and instruction: Analysis (identify the need, audience and goals), Design (set objectives, assessments and structure), Development (build the materials), Implementation (deliver to learners) and Evaluation (measure whether it worked and improve it). It originated in instructional systems design work for the US military in the 1970s, including at Florida State University, and remains one of the most widely taught instructional design processes in corporate L&D.
In Analysis, the designer clarifies the performance problem, the learners and constraints, often through a training needs analysis. In Design, they write measurable learning objectives, plan assessments that test them, and choose the structure, methods and media, usually documented in a training design document. In Development, they build and review the materials: slides, facilitator guide, workbook, e-learning. Implementation covers delivery, logistics and facilitator preparation. Evaluation runs throughout (formative) and after delivery (summative), often using the Kirkpatrick levels.
For corporate L&D, ADDIE gives a shared checklist so nothing important is skipped, especially analysis and evaluation. It is criticised as slow and linear, so many teams use it iteratively or switch to agile approaches such as SAM (Successive Approximation Model), which build and test rough prototypes early. Each Bodhih trainer toolkit includes a training design document, facilitator guide and assessment instruments, which correspond to ADDIE’s design, development and evaluation outputs.
Common mistakes: skipping Analysis and starting with slides; writing objectives that cannot be assessed; treating Evaluation as a feedback form at the end; and running ADDIE as a rigid waterfall when quick prototypes would catch problems earlier.
Key points
- Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation.
- Originated in 1970s US military instructional systems design work.
- One of the most widely taught instructional design processes.
- Criticised as linear; often used iteratively.
- SAM is a common agile alternative.
An example at work
An L&D manager at a Jaipur hotel group uses ADDIE for a guest complaint-handling programme: Analysis of complaint logs and interviews; Design of objectives and a roleplay assessment; Development of a one-day workshop pack; Implementation across five properties; and Evaluation of roleplay scores and complaint resolution times three months later.
Where this is used at Bodhih
Related terms
Training needs analysis
Training needs analysis (TNA) is the process of identifying the gap between the skills people have and the skills they need, and whether training can close it.
Instructional design
Instructional design is the systematic practice of creating learning experiences that reliably help people gain specific knowledge and skills.
Training design document
A training design document is the blueprint for a training programme, setting out the audience, objectives, structure, methods and assessment before materials are built.
Kirkpatrick model
The Kirkpatrick model is a four-level framework for evaluating training: reaction, learning, behaviour and results.
Blended learning
Blended learning is a training approach that combines online learning, such as e-learning and virtual sessions, with in-person or live instructor-led learning.
More about ADDIE model
What are the five phases of the ADDIE model?
Analysis: identify the need, audience and goals. Design: write objectives, plan assessments and structure. Development: create and review materials. Implementation: deliver the training. Evaluation: measure results and improve. Evaluation also happens informally throughout the other phases.
What is the difference between ADDIE and SAM?
ADDIE moves through five phases largely in sequence, with most testing after development. SAM (Successive Approximation Model), developed by Michael Allen, builds rough prototypes early and refines them in short cycles with learner and stakeholder feedback. SAM suits fast-changing projects; ADDIE suits projects that need thorough documentation.