What SMEs Actually Need from Instructional Designers

Have you ever struggled to get the information you need from a subject matter expert? Or maybe you're the expert (SME), and you're not quite sure what the instructional designer actually wants from you?

In this episode, host Matt Pierce explores what subject matter experts actually need from instructional designers (IDs) to do their best work. Drawing from his experience on both sides of the dynamic, Matt breaks down seven key principles for building a strong SME-ID partnership that leads to better learning outcomes.

From being specific with requests and setting clear boundaries, to giving early feedback and closing the loop on how information gets used, Matt offers practical guidance for creating a smoother, more productive working relationship.

Matt also explores how video can strengthen communication between SMEs and IDs, whether that's recording verbal feedback, providing quick status updates, or simply adding a personal touch that helps you stand out in a busy SME's inbox.

Learning points from the episode include:

1. 00:00 - 01:26 Introduction and the SME-ID dynamic
2. 01:26 - 03:25 Respecting SME time and being specific with requests
3. 03:25 - 05:57 Setting clear guardrails and context before asking for content
4. 05:57 - 08:11 Helping SMEs remember what it's like to be a beginner
5. 08:11 - 09:57 The importance of early, actionable feedback
6. 09:57 - 12:18 Pushing back when expertise doesn't serve the learner
7. 12:18 - 14:06 Giving SMEs something to react to rather than starting from nothing
8. 14:06 - 18:22 Closing the loop and using video to strengthen communication
9. 18:22 - 21:01 Matt’s final take and outro

Important links and mentions:

1. Camtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/
2. Snagit: https://www.techsmith.com/snagit/
3. Audiate: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/audiate/