Effective communication and collaboration in instructional design

Here, we will use the ADDIE model to discuss best practices for communicating before, during, and after your instructional design projects. This means transparent communication coming both from you, the ID, and from others – such as stakeholders, subject matter experts (SMEs), and any relevant cross-functional team members – throughout the ADDIE process. As instructional design projects often involve multiple stakeholders, the need for effective communication in this field is high. If communication (and therefore collaboration) falls short, your project may not only be delayed but, also be at risk of not meeting its intended learning and performance goals.

The forms of communication you use to collaborate throughout an instructional design project may vary. For example, it may be verbal and done in person or via phone or virtual meetings – or written, via in-file comments, messaging tools such...