Applying the ADDIE Model in Training & eLearning: A Practical Perspective 

In the world of instructional design models, few frameworks are as prevalent as ADDIE. Short for Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation, the ADDIE model is a structured, iterative approach to developing effective training programs in all formats, including in-person, online, or hybrid. In the clinical research environment where regulatory compliance, global teams, and evolving technologies intersect, it’s critical to ensure that training is strategic, consistent, and measurable. The ADDIE model can be leveraged to ensure this is accomplished.  

ANALYSIS 

Before building any training content, it’s important to analyze the context in which learners operate. You might find yourself asking questions like: 

• Who are the learners?  

• What prior knowledge do they bring?  

• What gaps exist between their current competencies and the behaviors or skills required for success?  

This diagnostic stage is about identifying the problem to be solved and aligning training objectives with business and compliance goals. As one of our speakers noted, “You can’t teach effectively until you know exactly what the problem is you’re trying to solve.” 

DESIGN 

Creative planning begins with design. Based on the insights from analysis, instructional designers can outline learning objectives, map out the structure of the program, and determine the most effective delivery formats. 

This phase also includes determining how learners will be assessed. In clinical trials, where training compliance is tracked and audited, the ability to demonstrate both knowledge transfer and documented participation is essential. 

DEVELOPMENT 

Once the blueprint is in place, it’s time to build. The Development phase brings the training to life via the creation of slide decks, writing content, recording videos, developing eLearning modules, and configuring the learning management system.  

This is a collaborative effort across teams: subject matter experts contribute technical insights, instructional designers shape the learning flow, and developers ensure functionality. At Trial Interactive, we’ve seen organizations speed up this phase significantly by using AI-assisted authoring tools, especially when reusing or updating legacy content across studies or trial phases. 

IMPLEMENTATION  

Next up is implementation. The moment of truth when training is launched to its intended audience. Success here depends on more than just clicking “publish.” Implementation includes onboarding facilitators, preparing learners, managing access to training materials, and providing technical support. For regulated industries like life sciences, it’s also vital to ensure that training records are complete, accurate, and audit ready.  

EVALUATION 

Finally, the evaluation phase ensures that learning initiatives don’t end when the training does. This stage includes both formative evaluation - gathering feedback during development and delivery - and summative evaluation, which assesses the program’s effectiveness. Did learners retain the knowledge? Are they applying it on the job? Did it lead to fewer protocol deviations or audit findings? These are the kinds of questions that should inform the next iteration of training.  

While ADDIE is decades old, its principles remain relevant, especially when integrated with today’s digital learning platforms. Whether you’re rolling out GCP training for new study teams, developing SOP onboarding for global staff, or adapting content to meet European Accessibility Act requirements, a methodical, learner-centered approach like ADDIE can help ensure consistency, compliance, and engagement.