Rapid Doesn’t Mean Rushed: Why Rapid Development Matters More in 2026

Higher ed has spent years planning. Now it’s time to build.

In this episode of the TBG Podcast, Angela sits down with Sheila Fry, COO of The Babb Group, to unpack why rapid development has become essential for institutions navigating shifting enrollment, workforce demands, and long‑delayed initiatives finally moving forward.

Higher education leaders will walk away with:

💡 Smart, practical strategies for accelerating course and program development

💡 A clear understanding of what rapid means. Quality is still the priority!

💡 Insights on parallel workflows, versioning mindsets, and design guardrails

💡 Real stories from the field about what works — and what slows teams down

💡A grounded look at where AI accelerates process without replacing pedagogy, rigor, or humans

If your institution is gearing up for 2026 with renewed momentum, this conversation offers the clarity, confidence, and actionable ideas you need to move from planning to execution without sacrificing quality, alignment, or faculty voice.

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Let's get real in class discussions! It's time to rethink course design and discussions as students and course developers become more dependent on AI. In this episode, Angela Britcher and The Babb Group's COO Sheila Fry talk about how instructional design can help bring authenticity back to class.Topics include:💡Get clear on AI usage expectations💡Embed AI statements and citation practices💡Design for process, not just product💡Redesign discussion boards for authentic engagementPerfect for instructional designers, academic leaders, and faculty reimagining learning in an AI-integrated classroom.

DigitalEDU Dialogues Podcast Course Oversight & the Power of Instructional Design

In this episode, host Angela Britcher chats with Sheila Fry, COO of The Babb Group, about why course oversight isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a strategic necessity. From outdated materials to AI-era authenticity, they explore how instructional designers help faculty streamline workload, improve student experience, and keep courses fresh, accurate, and engaging. Perfect for faculty, deans, and anyone shaping online learning.