Needs Assessment is often the first step an organization takes in an attempt to determine the extent of workforce skill deficiencies and to develop a path forward regarding how to deal with the deficiency.

Needs Assessment ultimately deals with the assessment of knowledge (Cognative), skills (Psychomotor) , and attitudes (Affective).   There are  a variety of ways to accomplish the assessment.  The challenge is to choose the appropriate method for the organization.

The results of a Needs Assessment can be used in a variety of ways, including but not limited to Development of Individual Learning Plans, Development of Organizational Training Plans, and Development of Staffing and Hiring Plans.