We’re now in our fourth installment of the ADDIE series! We’ve been discussing how ADDIE has stood the test of time and still has a power-packed punch when it comes to creating engaging learning journeys. At this point in our journey, we have Analyzed the learning needs, Designed for identified needs, and Developed final content. This month we have arrived at Implementation: how to get the learning to the learners.
With the emergence of eLearning and Learning Management Systems (LMSs), Implementation has become quite a large task, often with its own team. The tasks involved are typically performed by an LMS Administrator. In its simplest form, here’s what happens:
- Content Accessibility: Final content is made accessible to learners.
- Notification: The target audience is made aware of the new course.
- Launch: Learners enroll in and launch the course.
Content Accessibility
When working with traditional LMSs (Cornerstone, Canvas, Litmos), the content creator must “publish” the files so they are in the desired format, such as SCORM, then share those files with the LMS Administrator. The LMS houses and serves all content directly, tracking completion through built-in gradebooks. But today, we have more than LMSs to think about. Your organization may use one of these.
LXPs (Learning Experience Platforms like Degreed, EdCast) aggregate content from multiple sources—internal SCORM files, external links, videos, articles, even social learning. They focus on personalized learning paths and often use AI to recommend content based on learner behavior and skills gaps.
LRSs (Learning Record Stores) primarily capture xAPI statements from various learning experiences, whether formal courses or informal learning events. Content can live anywhere, but learning data flows back to the LRS for comprehensive tracking.
Microlearning Platforms (Axonify, Grovo) are for bite-sized content delivery, often mobile-optimized. Content is typically native to the platform with built-in authoring tools, so there really isn’t any “handoff” since the tool is within the platform.
Notification – How the LMS Knows Who Needs What
The LMS typically determines learner assignments through:
- Role-based rules: All managers get leadership training.
- Compliance matrices: Job function + regulatory requirements.
- Skills gap analysis: Assessment results trigger specific course assignments.
- Manual assignment by administrators or managers.
- Self-enrollment based on available catalogs.
- API integrations with HRIS systems that automatically assign based on job changes or hire dates.
Launch
Launch is all about a successful learner experience. Many checks take place:
- Technical validation: The course functions correctly.
- User verification: The correct learners can access the course.
- Course tracking: Course progress is maintained, including grades and completion status.
Of all the phases of ADDIE, Implementation is the most complex, and the one phase NOT performed by the content creation team. Essentially, it's the moment you can confidently say:
"Learners can successfully start, navigate, complete, and get credit for this learning experience"—the full technical and pedagogical handshake is complete.
Wrapping Up Implementation
Implementation is where all the planning, designing, and developing comes together. It’s the phase that ensures learners not only have access to content but also a smooth, meaningful learning experience. While it’s often complex and requires coordination across teams, it’s also incredibly rewarding—this is where your learners truly start engaging with the knowledge and skills you’ve worked so hard to create.
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