Publisher's Synopsis
This thoroughly revised edition of the best–selling resource A Practical Guide to Needs Assessment offers a practical and comprehensive guide for practitioners who are responsible for Introducing a training program Creating adult education programs Assessing the development needs of a workforce Improving individual, group, organization, or interorganizational performance in the workplace Implementing community, national, or international development interventions Designed as a resource for practitioners, this book is filled with how–to information, tips, and case studies. It shows how to use data–based needs assessments to frame people–related problems and performance improvement opportunities, obtain support from those who are affected by the changes, make effective decisions, and increase efficiency. The book details four approaches to needs assessmentknowledge and skill assessment, job and task analysis, competency–based needs assessment, and strategic needs assessment. It also describes techniques for collecting and analyzing data, strategies for managing a needs assessment, ethical guidelines, models and theories, and frequently asked questions. The book′s straightforward approach is designed to help new and experienced practitioners quickly get to the heart of the matter and apply the information right away. Those who are new to needs assessment will find throughout the book the worksheets, ready–to–use Toolkit Forms, and templates that can jump–start a needs assessment. Experienced practitioners will find the book filled with ideas from recognized thought leaders in the field as well as new resources and ways of collecting and analyzing data and engaging those who are affected by the changes.