SAM

Download the one-sheet reference for SAM Download Download the one-sheet reference for SAM

SAM (Successive Approximation Model) is an instructional design framework created by Allen Interactions as an alternative to ADDIE. Introduced in 2012 with Michael W. Allen's book Leaving ADDIE for SAM, SAM is based on the Agile process. It uses "sprints" to create discrete chunks of finalized material rather than developing the overall product as an iterative whole. 

Image obtained from Allen Interactions Links to an external site.

While SAM has been embraced in corporate instructional design, ADDIE has continued to dominate academic instructional design.

Additional Resources

For a good overview of the "battle" between ADDIE and SAM, read Virtual Battle Series: ADDIE vs. SAM Links to an external site. by Marc DeCarli (for ATD-MAC).