Comments on: Needs analysis round-up (Part-1)

By: Dave Ferguson

Dave Ferguson — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 02:14:17 +0000

Ray,

Actually, the problem with the original version of the link was my fault… after I submitted, I saw I neglected to add the tag at the end of the URL. Thank you for fixing it, and sorry to have caused the confusion.

By: Ray Sims

Ray Sims — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:59:27 +0000

Thanks Dave for stopping bye and for the pointer to the article.

I was challenged with the URL as it originally came through (someday WordPress or I will figure out how to have an easier approach for commenters to add links)…with a bit of Googling I believe I now have it pointed to what you intended. Let me know if I missed.

Ray

By: Dave Ferguson

Dave Ferguson — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 23:37:42 +0000

Ray, your order-taking image parallels the one I use: the training department as the Little Corporate Schoolhouse. On page three of this article, Joe and Jimmie Boyett recap how Tom Gilbert targeted potential causes of on-the-job problems: First, information (goals, standards, feedback): is it there? Is it worth anything? Second, instruments (tools, techniques, processes). Third, incentives (which means the organization, not the individual). Fourth, skills and knowledge -- not because they're fourth in importance, but because it's useless to try and solve an environmental problem like crappy processes or missing feedback via training.

By: Ray Sims

Ray Sims — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:09:34 +0000

Hi Laura,

Agreed regarding value of book…I have a copy next to me now as I type this. Chapter “D1. Define Outcomes in Business Terms” comes closest to addressing ‘needs analysis’

Thanks for the recommendation.

Ray

By: Laura Jaffrey

Laura Jaffrey — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:59:20 +0000

Hi, A valuable book I've found on this subject is called the The Six Disciplines of Breakthrough Learning. While the organization of the book might lack some creativity, the content covers the shift of training moving towards solving real business needs.

By: Needs analysis round-up (part-2) at Sims Learning Connections

Needs analysis round-up (part-2) at Sims Learning Connections — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:54:57 +0000

[...] BA « Needs analysis round-up (Part-1) [...]

By: Ray Sims

Ray Sims — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 11:03:11 +0000

Thanks Graham, Rory and Tom.

Rory: I’m also more clearly seeing the distinction between ‘performance’ and ‘training’ analysis…related/connected, but distinct.

Tom: Thanks for the job lead. Interesting, alas, on the wrong coast for me.

By: Tom Kuhlmann

Tom Kuhlmann — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 17:33:01 +0000

Good post. I’m tracking with Tom until that survey part, as well:) Actually, I’d only use that as a last approach (when you can’t get face time with the learners) and I’d keep it simple with just a handful of people.

Good luck on the job search. I see your in the Boston area. A friend just sent this to me. http://www.hw.com/jobs/fac.html

By: Rory Chalcraft

Rory Chalcraft — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 11:51:49 +0000

Really nice reflection on needs analysis. I’ve been suffering through a project with a client wanting to train HR personnel how to conduct such an analysis. They divide it into two processes (performance analysis and training needs analysis).
I like the distinction between needs and wants.
Look forward to part 2.
-Rory

By: Graham Durant-Law

Graham Durant-Law — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 03:33:20 +0000

Hi Ray.

This a very interesting post and blog. I’m glad I’ve discovered it! I wouldn’t be too gun shy about surveys, after all it was a survey that got Dave Snowden to answer some questions, and put forward his alternatives!

Regards, Graham