The
Training Needs Assessment Handbook: A Guide for Conducting a Multi-Level Needs Assessment is a comprehensive resource issued by the Office of Personnel Management. It outlines a step-by-step process for training needs assessments at the organizational, occupational and individual levels. As a supervisor, you need to plan on two levels: organizational/occupational and individual. Steps outlined in this handbook include:
Step One - Obtain needs assessment data (through questionnaires, surveys, advisory groups, focus groups, interviews, etc.);
Step Two - Analyze data (discrepancy or gap between the desired knowledges and skills and those currently possessed by the employees);
Step Three - Define performance problems (changing technologies, etc.);
Step Four - Research performance solutions (ask what other bureaus and agencies are doing; determine costs of training and non-training solutions; involve all affected employees);
Step Five - Determine best approaches to resolving problems and issues; and
Step Six - Conduct a cost/benefit analysis or business case for selected approach to project what financial benefit will result from the investment of training dollars.
This handbook will assist you and your agency in planning and implementing an effective needs assessment system. It provides practical guidance, models, tools and strategies to help you link your HRD functions to your agency's mission and goals.
