What’s a LLAMA got to do with Projects?
LLAMA Methodology: Stages of a Successful E-Learning Project
When it comes to delivering a successful e-learning project, having a clear methodology in place can make all the difference. While traditional approaches like ADDIE offer a linear, waterfall-style framework, many designers are now embracing more flexible, iterative methodologies. One of my personal favourites—and one I regularly recommend to clients—is the LLAMA methodology (Lot Like Agile Management Approach).
Created by Megan Torrance, LLAMA combines the structure of traditional project management with the adaptability of Agile, enabling you to respond to feedback and make improvements throughout the development process. In this article, I’ll guide you through the key stages of a LLAMA-based e-learning project, explaining how each step works, why it’s essential, and how it sets your course up for success.
Stage 1: Kick-off and Clarify Goals
Before diving into design, the project starts with a collaborative kick-off session involving all key stakeholders. This stage isn’t just about introductions—it’s where you define the why, what, and who of the course.
Why: What organisational goal or problem does the course aim to address?
What: What specific behaviours or outcomes should learners achieve?
Who: Who is the target audience, and what are their needs, preferences, and challenges?
By focusing on these questions early, you ensure the project aligns with business objectives and learner needs. Tools like root cause analysis or action mapping are invaluable here, helping to identify the real problem and avoid creating a course that’s ineffective or unnecessary.
Stage 2: Sprint Planning
With a clear purpose and audience in mind, the next step is to break the project into manageable chunks or "sprints." Each sprint focuses on a specific component of the course—such as a module, activity, or scenario—and includes planning, development, testing, and review.
Sprint planning helps:
Keep the project on track with clear deliverables.
Ensure all team members understand their roles and responsibilities.
Build in flexibility to address feedback as it arises.
Stage 3: Prototype and Test
Unlike the traditional “big reveal” of a completed course, LLAMA emphasises early and frequent prototyping. During this stage, small, testable versions of the course are created and shared with stakeholders and end-users.
Why prototype?
Testing ideas in the early stages allows you to identify and resolve issues before they snowball into costly changes. Prototypes can be as simple as wireframes or as detailed as interactive mock-ups.
Feedback gathered here is crucial for improving the course design and ensuring it meets both learner expectations and business requirements.
Stage 4: Iterative Development
The heart of LLAMA lies in its iterative approach. Instead of designing the entire course in one go, development occurs incrementally, with regular opportunities for review and adjustment.
Key benefits of this approach include:
Continuous improvement: Each iteration builds on the previous one, incorporating lessons learned and stakeholder feedback.
Stakeholder buy-in: Regular updates keep stakeholders engaged and confident in the project’s progress.
This stage often includes pilot testing, where a sample group of learners completes the course and provides feedback on usability, relevance, and engagement.
Stage 5: Release and Reflect
After multiple iterations, the course is ready for full release. But the project doesn’t end there! The final step in the LLAMA process involves reflection and review to evaluate the course’s success.
Was the course effective in meeting its objectives?
How did learners respond to the content?
Are there areas for further improvement?
By collecting and analysing feedback, you can identify opportunities for future enhancements and ensure the course continues to deliver value over time.
Why LLAMA Works
The beauty of LLAMA lies in its balance. It provides the structure needed to keep projects organised while allowing for the flexibility to adapt to changing needs and unexpected challenges. Whether you’re developing a small compliance module or a multi-course curriculum, this methodology helps ensure your project is efficient, effective, and learner-focused.
Tips for Applying LLAMA
Start with a strong foundation
Embrace feedback
Stay flexible
Celebrate progress
Tips for Applying LLAMA
Start with a strong foundation: Invest time in the kick-off phase to clarify goals and expectations.
Embrace feedback: Regular input from stakeholders and learners is the key to continuous improvement.
Stay flexible: Be prepared to pivot if testing or feedback highlights unexpected issues.
Celebrate progress: Acknowledge milestones and successes along the way to maintain momentum and morale.
Conclusion
The LLAMA methodology is more than just a project management framework—it’s a mindset that prioritises collaboration, iteration, and continuous improvement. By adopting this approach, you can create e-learning courses that are not only effective but also adaptable to the ever-changing needs of learners and organisations.
If you’re ready to bring your e-learning project to life and want a partner to guide you through the process, feel free to reach out. Let’s work together to make learning engaging, impactful, and fun—just like a real LLAMA would want it! 🦙