Which Design Model to Use?

A new instructional designer can be faced with a dilemma of which instructional design model should I use.  This entry focuses on the differences and similarities of ADDIE and MRK.  ADDIE is the acronym for Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate, while MRK stands for the model put forth my Morrison, Ross, and Kemp.

From a 10,000 foot level, ADDIE and MRK instructional design models are similar and share the same goals: using a systematic approach for designing instructional materials. What is different are the names of discrete phases within each model as well as the way the models are visually represented. When you look at each model closer, there are some subtle differences that may not be seen from a high-level comparison.


ADDIE is represented as a linear model, typically showing an entry at one end (Analysis) and completion through the other end (Evaluation). MRK is represented as a circle (or oval), allowing the entry point to be from any step in the cycle. By presenting the model in a circular format, it can also be inferred that the cycle is repeated resembling an improvement cycle such as found in a Plan-Do-Check-Adjust (PDCA) model. The biggest difference seen in the MRK model is the inclusion of the two outer circles showing a systems approach to creating instructional material.

The outer most circle, which can be considered the basis or support structure, includes Project Management, Support Services, Planning, and Implementation. The next circle includes the Adjust portion of PDCA: Revision, Summative Evaluation, Formative Evaluation, and Confirmative Evaluation. The inner circle is composed of smaller circles that define that actual creation of material. All of these items and circles in totality are necessary in instructional design.

MRK, with the way it is defined and visually modeled, may be the process of choice when creating a large, complex portion of instructional material. A consultant or contractor may find the model more useful due to having more phases and information contained within the model itself. ADDIE may be preferred when the training need is small, affecting only a handful of people, and can be designed and delivered by the person who identified the need.

The advantage in using ADDIE over MRK, or vice versa, comes down to what an individual is comfortable with if there are no existing requirements to use one model over the other, in my opinion. If a person is more detail oriented, they may prefer MRK since it has more discretely defined steps. The overall goal and target are the same with both models. The important part is to follow an approach that makes sense, is repeatable, and can be described.