Fundamentals of a Needs Assessment (NA) Needs Assessment is the process of

identifying and measuring areas for improvement in a target audience, and determining the methods to achieve improvement.

A Needs Assessment is different than a list of needs. A Needs Assessment draws linkages from discovery of a problem to proposed resolution.

By: Jacob CoverstoneJcoverstone@aao.org

Fundamentals of a Needs Assessment (NA)

This PowerPoint seeks to answer the question “What are the key components found a good Needs Assessment document?”

By: Jacob CoverstoneJcoverstone@aao.org

SECTIONS AND CATEGORIES

TitleWhat is the subject of this NA?

Executive SummaryWhat do intend to change, and what method will you use to achieve your goal?

Gap SummaryWhat does did your gap analysis reveal? Write in layman's terms.

Gap AnalysisClearly articulate the relevant gap(s) for this intervention.

What components make up a ‘Needs Assessment’?

A DETAILED LOOK AT GAP ANALYSIS

Supporting your statements

MethodsHow did you determine the gap?

GapArticulate the gap using normative data. Provide explicate figures when possible.

Ensure that the gap listed supports the thesis of your Executive Summary.

Gap AnalysisClearly articulate the relevant gap(s) for this intervention.

FootnotesUse footnotes to expand upon general statements. Attach copies the supporting material with the final NA.

SECTIONS AND CATEGORIES, CONT.

BarriersWhat factors have contributed to the formation of the gap?

SolutionsWhat do you plan to do about the barriers that you have uncovered?

Structure of the interventionThe summary explains what you are doing about the gaps and barriers that you have identified.

DetailsExpand upon the summary by explaining why you believe this is the best course of action.

What components make up a ‘Needs Assessment’?

Fundamentals of a Needs Assessment (NA)

Key points: A Needs Assessment draws linkages. Explain:

What is wrong (the gap) What you intend to do about it (the

intervention) What you have to work with (the resources) Why you think it will work (the research)

By: Jacob CoverstoneJcoverstone@aao.org