Instructional Systems Design is “an organized procedure that includes the steps of analyzing, designing, developing,
implementing, and evaluating instruction” (Seels & Richey, 1994, p. 31). The Instructional Systems Design (ISD) process
involves a systematic approach to solving instructional or human performance problems. The most basic and commonly used
approach is known as the ADDIE model, which involves Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of
Instruction.

The analysis phase involves determining the optimal performance desired based on the need (the gap between “what is”
and “what should be”). The analysis, or front-end analysis, represents the major “research” portion for designing instruction.
During this phase all areas are accounted for including optimals, actuals, feelings, causes, and solutions as they relate to
the performance need (Rossett, 1987). It is here that the performance objectives are determined so to cater the remainder
of the design and development process to meet the objectives. A thorough analysis allows the instructional designer to
determine if training is the solution or other methods (coaching, job aids, attitudes, etc.) for solving the problem. The analysis
phase also allows the designer to consider all possible areas that could have an affect on the current situation and those that
could have a future effect. Maintaining a broad scope of knowledge pertaining to the problem can allow for a much simpler and
effective process.

The Design phase involves the major planning steps leading to the development and implementation of training (See the Domain of Instructional Design). This phase lays out the remaining steps of the ADDIE model so that completing each phase is made simpler. After the design phase, the product is developed based on the specifications of design (See the Domain of Instructional Development), implemented according to the planned timeline and methodologies in the design (See the Domain of Utilization and Management), and then evaluated. During the design phase, the methods of evaluation are chosen (See the Domain of Evaluation).