Needs Analysis

What is needs analysis?

Needs analysis is the process of studying a performance problem to find the gap between current results and desired results. It helps you decide whether training can close that gap, and if it can, what you’ll cover.

Example: Before building a product-knowledge course, an instructional designer ran a needs analysis with sales managers and top reps. They needed to determine whether weak deal reviews stemmed from missing product information or a clunky CRM workflow.

In e-learning and L&D work, needs analysis usually sits at the start of a project, often in the Analyze phase of ADDIE. It shapes learning objectives, audience scope, and the right fix: an e-learning course, a job aid, coaching, or another solution. Teams often pair it with a formal task analysis when they gather performance data as part of that broader investigation.

Why needs analysis matters

L&D content creators juggle a steady stream of course requests and pressure to ship fast. A clear needs analysis protects that craft. It helps you decide whether spending time building a course in Articulate 360 is the best fit, e.g., when training can improve on-the-job performance.

It also gives stakeholders a shared picture of the problem. When managers, subject matter experts, and designers agree on root causes first, courses stay focused. Reviews move faster, and learners practice skills that map to the job.

How to apply needs analysis

Start with the desired business outcome. Collect a few strong signals: performance data, manager interviews, learner surveys, and short job observations. Name the gap in plain language, then test whether training can close it before you write objectives or outline the course. When training is the right path, build in Articulate 360. Draft the course, gather feedback, share it, then track it to assess whether the training delivered the expected outcome or if you need to iterate further.