Factors that drive delivery mode decisions are multifaceted and often necessarily go beyond instructional design needs. Additional influencing factors include logistical, technical, and policy considerations. The COVID-19 pandemic illuminated the many opportunities and challenges that accompany the chosen distance delivery mode, prompting the need for greater awareness of variables that influence related decision-making. As such, this article examines the systemic nature of distance delivery modes, including how they are defined, their adoption and use across contexts, and factors related to their use. Finally, considerations for distance delivery mode selection are explored.