Theme 2: Organizational Performance
Needs Assessment and Task Analysis Consulting
Course: EAC 583 - Needs Assessment and Task Analysis in Training and Development

This narrative discusses an executive summary and a presentation from a needs assessment and task analysis consulting group project for Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation, headquartered in Winston-Salem, NC. Our mission was to learn through experience how to analyze performance needs in order to identify real-world solutions for real-world problems. After meeting with key stakeholders at Krispy Kreme, an agreement was established for our group to analyze the performance needs of their Off-Premises Sales Managers.

We identified four primary objectives: 1) Gain insight into what Off-Premises Sales Managers need to know, or be able to do, in order to be more effective in their roles; 2) Establish appropriate tools to identify and address the current needs of the Off- Premises Sales Managers; 3) Conduct a needs assessment of the Off-Premises Sales Managers; and, 4) Identify specific ideas for improving the performance of Off-Premises Sales Managers.

Three methods of data collection were used: we reviewed organizational documents; conducted interviews with select Off-Premises Sales Managers and District Sales Managers; and, surveyed all Off-Premises Sales Managers. It was beneficial have the occasion to use multiple assessment methods in a single project, and see how each method contributed to a richer final product. Based on a review of this data, we provided Krispy Kreme with recommendations in three primary areas: training needs, leadership considerations, and issues related to tools/equipment.

Krispy Kreme was impressed with our group's methodology, and planned to use our recommendations to guide the development of future training and/or performance improvement offerings. This project provided me with a wealth of learning opportunities. It was a challenge to keep the scope of the project from expanding, but a learning contract helped us stay on task and meet our intended deliverables. Additionally, the communication and dedication in our group was outstanding; and, this made it easy to reach consensus when difficult decisions needed to be made.

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