Consider the following training needs analysis work elements:

• What is the job under review and what are the main duties?
• What are the high-level skills required?
• To what standards are people expected to do the job?
• Are they currently meeting these standards?

These are some questions answered by a work training needs analysis, an umbrella term coined to include job study, task analysis, performance analysis and competency studies. All are variations on the training needs analysis approach of analysing the job, the required levels of performance and the ability of individuals or groups to perform at the required level.

Where does work training needs analysis fit into our three scenarios? In designing a programme about harassment, safety, the Internet, or for that matter, any topic, it is important that training material be anchored in the work performed. With work training needs analysis couching course information in the language, metaphors and projects of the workplace, course materials are rendered more concrete and easier to learn.

In our Internet training needs analysis example, if we capture how management wants employees to use the Internet; if we identify the knowledge and skills required to meet this standard of performance; if we identify gaps in the target group's knowledge and skills; and if we then provide training that bridges these gaps, then, our training will enhance employee performance - as defined by management.