ADDIE vs. SAM for Instructional Design

I have always been a fan of Michael Allen and Allen Interactive. In fact, I was always inspired and motivated by both. However, SAM has proven to me that one can not always agree with those held in such high regard. In this case, I am never a fan of one bashing a current and well used model (ADDIE) to convince others to use another model (SAM) they created for profit. Especially when the newer model is made up of common sense tactics that should be implemented anyway by a good Instructional Designer.

To validate my point here, let's start with ADDIE which means Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement and Evaluate. Most of us who uses this model typically thinks of one run through this model as "version one" in regards to the Spiral Systems Development Life-cycle. That process alone makes the ADDIE model "iterative" in nature and is the first "reason" Allen claims for people to adopt the SAM model instead.

Second, the collaboration aspect of SAM is very condescending and something an Instruction Designer BETTER achieve in ALL phases of ADDIE. Lack of collaboration is futile and we should not need a model to point that need out for us.

Third, Allen states that the process must be, "efficient and effective." I find that both ADDIE and SAM fit this definition and neither is better at being efficient or effect. Both are...

Finally, Allen also argues that the process must be manageable. See my third point above and I will also add that when one considers project management strategies, both models fit with what we learn as good project management.

The bottom line is this: there are excellent models of Instructional Design and there is no need to spend nearly $40 on a book that regards a proprietary model in higher regard than a proven model used for decades. New models come and go, but the best models encourage the use of traditional models and discuss how we can use them in different way. This is in stark contrast to a book that bashes a well used model in favor of a redundant and condescending one. Save your money and read one of the many published dissertations that discuss the use of ADDIE in all of the ways Allen describes it not doing. This includes mine that can be found at Sage Publications and the University of Wyoming library for free...