Design Implementation Plan (Blueprint)

If an architect creates an excellent blueprint, he or she will build a house that satisfies the client’s needs and wants. The blueprint must be realistic, detailed, and based on complete client information. For learners, the same is true. A good blueprint, or design plan, will guide the implementation of the project from its start to a successful completion. 

Instructional strategies seem to divide into three areas:

• Organization
• Delivery
• Management

The first area, “organization”, helps with the order in which learning events tied to the content are placed. The designer facilitates the order that will help the learner interact with the content in the most effective way.

Delivery is tied to which media will be used for the presentation based on what is best for the learner and for the learning environment. Technology seems to present us with all kinds of options, but the realities of learning styles and of the client’s budget are very important in choosing a design. Often it is very difficult to retrofit a project in which the media options have not been considered carefully. The client and designer may be stuck with a strategy that does not work well. The designer also needs to consider the Content Management System (CMS) used. Are the materials prepared to work in the CMS?

Management strategies can make or break a project. Timelines and workflow must be communicated clearly. The client needs to understand the process order and appreciate that quality control is built into the workflow. If all parties understand the process, all will proceed smoothly and help produce the deliverable with a smile on everyone’s face.