FEA - Step 1: Needs Assessment

The first question addressed in the FEA needs assessment is:

• Why is training needed?
  • Training is needed for a new system under development.
  • Training is needed for new hires or users new to the system.
  • Training is needed when the human-to-system interface and tasks have been modified due to upgrade/retro-fit to an existing system.
  • Training is needed to improve user performance.

Initial Training - At least some training for new hires or users new to the system is usually required. Exceptions are when users come to the new job/position with all the necessary skills, knowledges, and abilities to perform. Even in this case, some orientation training will be required for new hires, as well as for workers assuming jobs within a different part of the organization.

New Interface or Tasks - With a different interface and tasks, it is highly likely that a training program will be needed. The extent of this program will depend on the difference between skills and knowledges required for the new or modified system and those already possessed by the users.

Performance Remediation - When training is needed to improve user performance on an existing system for which training has already been provided, a more detailed analysis is required to determine if "training" is indeed the answer to the performance problem. A performance assessment, Step 2 of the FEA, is in order.