As shown in the diagram, these steps are not entirely linear. While designing instruction, I often move fluidly between each of the phases depending on the situation and decisions that are being made while collaborating with SMEs. While I generally follow the sequence of the process, I frequently transition between the phases as needed.

Analysis – This phase involves understanding your audience, the problem you aim to solve, and defining the goals and objectives. It is essential to determine the current status of the individual or team and identify the skills that will be needed.

Design – With the learning objectives and the results of the context analysis in hand, the program’s outline is crafted. At this stage, the appropriate delivery method is selected, whether it be classroom-based, e-learning, or toolbox talks, among other options.

Development – This stage is focused on building the program in detail. It can proceed in an agile manner, which includes building, testing, and adjusting, or it can follow a more traditional route with a sequence of writing, rewriting, piloting, and reviewing.

Implementation – This is the primary stage of delivering the learning solution. In large-scale projects, this may encompass the rollout of pilot programs. For more extensive projects, the delivery includes not only train-the-trainer programs but also the actual delivery to meet the specific needs of learners.

Evaluation – This phase assesses whether the program has adequately addressed the gap identified during the analysis phase and if it has met the expectations of both the business and the individual learners.