FNS Design

Focused Instructional Design

Welcome to FNS Design!

FNS Design is intended to be a resource for anyone interested in creating training or education that leverages the amazing capabilities offered by computers.

Opinions differ about terminology in the field of instructional design. FNS Design prefers the more encompassing term “Instructional Systems Design” (ISD). We use the term “eLearning” to mean any training or instruction that uses computers as a means of presenting learning.

an open booklet and a man looking at a computer
ISD and eLearning go together

What is Instructional Systems Design (ISD)?

ISD is a process aimed at solving instructional issues for organizations. It provides a road map to a goal of increasing knowledge, skills, and/or attitudes necessary to make the organization better. Done properly, ISD provides a valuable return on investment by:

  • Identifying gaps in performance, knowledge, and behavior
  • Creating effective learning solutions based on needs
  • Focusing training or education to improve relevance
  • Enhancing skills and providing new capabilities
  • Improving processes
  • Determining non-instructional solutions to save money and time

For more about this subject, select the “ISD” tab at the top of the page or use this ISD link.

What is eLearning?

eLearning leverages the capabilities of the Internet, social media, computers, tablets, and mobile devices like smart phones to get instruction to those who need it easily and efficiently. eLearning can supplement traditional in-resident training or, in some cases, replace it entirely. eLearning provides a valuable return on investment by:

  • Reducing or eliminating travel costs
  • Improving access to learning across an organization
  • Increasing access to learning by those who rely on assistive technology
  • Leveraging existing resources as linked instructional materials
  • Improving sharing and re-use of learning materials
  • Simplifying content updates

For more about this subject, select the “eLearning” tab at the top of the page or use this eLearning link.

ISD and eLearning, separately or together, can provide you with a focused, sustainable instructional program that improves an organization’s overall capabilities and saves money. ISD offers the opportunity to analyze the organization's needs and create a cost effective approach that adapts and grows as needed. eLearning is a well proven method of getting training content to those that need it quickly and efficiently.