What is a Needs Analysis?
A needs analysis is defined as a method of collecting data in order know what needs of an organization are already met or still need to be met. Data collection is usually conducted in three phases:
Gather information
Analyze information
Create a training plan
Why is a Needs Analysis Necessary?
An instructor needs to know how an organization should invest their time and money towards a problem. So, the training provided should be exactly customized to ensure the organization an optimum return on investment. More importantly, a needs assessment can demonstrate other organizational setbacks that have not yet been addressed.
Online Learning Considerations
If learners are worried about confidentiality, surveys and data collection methods can ensure privacy and anonymity. Also, it is important to consider how the training should be conducted, such as completely synchronous, a blended format, or completely asynchronous, based on feedback prior to the course being conducted or overall educational needs of learners.
Ways to Conduct a Needs Analysis
The following are ways to find organizational needs based on types of analysis:
Performance Analysis: To decide which skill deficiencies are causing lack of growth
Feasibility Analysis: To determine how much cost the current deficiency is affecting an organization
Goal Analysis: To see of there is need for behavior improvement or better employee motivational methods
Task Analysis: To narrow down which specific job tasks can be corrected versus an entire organizational process
Target Population Analysis: To design and customize a learning experiences based on the training audience
Important Questions
More specifically, to ensure buy-in, cost effectiveness, and timeliness, the needs analysis should seek to answer five important questions:
Why conduct the training?
Who is involved in the training?
How can the performance deficiency be fixed?
What is the best way to perform?
When will the training take place?
References
Barbazette, J. (2006). Training needs assessment: Methods, tools, and techniques. Pfeiffer.
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