TNA and the three levels of analysis
Step 1 / 3·TNA — the step you can't skip
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Learning objectives — after this module you will:
- Explain the role of TNA in the training process
- Grasp the 3-level model: Organization – Task – Person (McGehee & Thayer)
- Know what question each level answers
TNA — the step you can't skip
Understand why TNA is the foundation of every good training program.
Training Needs Analysis (TNA) is the process of identifying the GAP between current and required capability, to answer: is training really needed, who needs it, and what is needed. TNA comes FIRST in every design model (it's the 'A' — Analyze — in ADDIE).
Skipping TNA is the number-one reason training is wasted: running a course because 'the boss liked it', because 'we had it last year', because 'the other department did it too'. The result: the right course but the wrong people, or the right people but the wrong problem.
The core formula
Training need = DESIRED result − CURRENT result, and that gap must be due to MISSING SKILL/KNOWLEDGE (not a lack of tools, motivation, or process — which you'll study deeply in Level 2).
Key takeaway: TNA identifies the capability gap and answers: is training needed, who needs it, what is needed.