Updates to the ISD model were required to accommodate the unique capabilities of individualized interactive delivery systems. Through research conducted while on the faculty of the University of Minnesota and field work with clients, Greg Sales, President of Seward Learning Systems, has implemented modifications to the original model which bring it into the electronic era.

Instructional Systems Development for the electronic era (ISD-EE) retains the proven strengths of the original approach while adding stages and processes that capitalize on modern technology. Dr. Sales states that by retaining a focus on the psychology of learning, a systems approach, and communication theory the ISD-EE model ensures quality learning and performance improvement. Other approaches to software design quickly lose sight of the educational aspect of the project. Instead, they equate user interactions with learning and transfer of learning to the job. The focus of these programs may be programming gimmicks, graphics and special effects, or entertainment. Little consideration is given to learning outcomes, measurement or documentation.

The ISD-EE approach to the design and development of performance improvement software incorporates the best of the old and the new. Historically validated procedures such as detailed front-end analyses, outcome focused design, and iterative development stages are supported with newer techniques. These include orientation strategies, layered and linked displays, rapid prototyping and electronic reviews.

Dr. Sales, who has been developing interactive software for over two decades, believes that the ISD-EE approach causes instructional designers and supporting team members to focus on the details of learning and the application of what is learned. Other approaches, used by less skilled developers, allow the focus to be directed to entertainment or marketing issues by programmers, graphic artists or other team members.

Seward Learning Systems was founded in 1990 and serves a wide range of clients in healthcare, business and government. Its expertise in the creation of quality performance improvement software has been acknowledged in awards received from clients, publishers and professional organizations.

The corporate offices of Seward Learning Systems are located in Minneapolis, MN. You may contact Greg Sales, Ph.D. at gsales@sewardls.com.