Why Agility Matters in Instructional Design

When agile development emerged in the 1990s, it revolutionized software by replacing rigid, step-by-step methodologies with flexibility, responsiveness, and iteration. Instead of waiting months (or even years) to see if a solution was effective, agile prioritized frequent check-ins, rapid prototypes, and continuous feedback loops. It was so successful that L&D quickly adopted agile methodologies, eager for faster, more effective ways to build learning solutions.

But agility can be tough to maintain in today’s corporate landscape. Over-formalization, heavy documentation, and hierarchical approval processes have crept back into instructional design, making rapid development and genuine responsiveness difficult.

When I talk with L&D leaders in large organizations who struggle with this, I simplify agility into two essential principles:

1. Don’t overthink it—just get started. Make something tangible quickly.
2. Discuss your progress transparently and frequently with anyone who might be impacted.

Here’s a useful heuristic: your level of agility can be measured by how many times stakeholders say 'No' early in the project. Yes, hearing "no" might initially feel frustrating, but it’s incredibly valuable. Each 'No' you get at the start of the project tells you something important, saving you time and effort later on.

Early negative feedback helps refine the project before costly mistakes occur. In fact, hearing 'No' early makes me uneasy. A premature 'Yes' might just mean stakeholders aren’t fully engaged, don’t understand what they truly need, or simply want to avoid tough conversations. But a 'No' always indicates clear, direct feedback.

So, how can you effectively elicit those helpful 'No's? Create something quick—a rough sketch, a basic storyboard, or a simple prototype—and ask: "If we moved forward with this idea, is there any reason it wouldn’t work?

"This question isn't confrontational; it invites genuine critique and creates space for honest responses. You’ll be amazed at the valuable feedback even the quietest stakeholders will offer. Collect those 'No's, make adjustments, and refine your ideas iteratively.

Eventually, the 'No's diminish, your prototypes evolve, and the resulting solution genuinely addresses the needs of everyone involved.

By embracing this agile mindset—rapid creation, transparent communication, and the courage to invite early negative feedback—you'll collaborate more effectively, iterate more intelligently, and ultimately deliver meaningful, impactful learning experiences.