Importance of Training Needs Analysis - (TNA)
Effective training or development depends on knowing what is required for the individual, the department, and the organization as a whole. With limited budgets and the need for cost-effective solutions, all organizations need to ensure that the resources invested in training are targeted at areas where training and development is needed and a positive return on the investment is maximized.
TNA enables organizations to channel resources into the areas where they will contribute the most to employee development, enhancing morale and organizational performance. TNA is a natural function of appraisal systems and is a key requirement for the award of Investors in People.
What is Training Needs Analysis?
Training Needs Analysis (TNA) is the method of determining if a training need exists and, if it does, what training is required to fill the gap. TNA seeks to accurately identify the levels of the present situation in the target surveys, interviews, observation, secondary data, and/or workshop. The gap between the present status and desired status may indicate problems that in turn can be translated into a training need.
Why do we need training?
Training is a means to ensure that employees have the knowledge and right skills to be able to do their work effectively and competently. Training may be needed when there is a gap between the desired performance, and the current performance, and the reason for that gap is lack of skill or knowledge.
Why should you conduct a TNA?
1. Avoids training for ‘training sake’.
2. Supports cost-effective training.
3. Targets areas of greatest need.
4. Gives information on the organization’s climate.
5. Gives commitment from managers and trainees.
6. Separates the ‘symptoms’ from the causes.
