ADDIE vs. SAM – Instructional Design Development Options

Having used both ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Development, Implement, and Evaluate) and SAM (Successive Approximation Model), processes for elearning course development it’s easy to make comparisons to SDLC (software development life cycle) metholdogy. Each has its advantages and can easily be compared to Waterfall (similar to ADDIE) and Agile (similar to SAM).

I like the ADDIE model for its well-thought-out process (much like the software development waterfall process).  For me, there is comfort and reassurance that comes with the ADDIE model.  It’s been used thousands of times before with success, thus giving me confidence when going into a project. The downside is the time it takes to go through all the key processes. They all have value, but sometimes project information changes so rapidly there’s unnecessary rework involved.

The SAM method is both fun and engaging and seems to enhance the creative process. The SAM process is very close to the Agile method of software development, with upfront stakeholder’s agreements, quick prototypes, and iterations.  If doing a project where the company’s standard project development method is Agile, the SME’s (Subject Matter Experts) might feel more comfortable with the SAM method over ADDIE.  One downside I’ve found is trying to get all the decision-makers in the room at one time for the initial critical design meetings. The SAM method was developed by Micheal Allen and is documented in this book, “Designing Successful E-Learning”.