¶ … job analysis for several reasons. The first is to define the role for training purposes. Job analysis is also necessary for evaluation as it provides the base against which the employees are measured. Job analysis can assist in the selection process as well, by enabling better matching of candidates with job requirements. Also, the job itself can be evaluated in the context of the division or company, and its relative value can be determined.
Organizations use job analysis data to help construct job descriptions. They then use the data to assist with developing candidate specs for hiring purposes; and the data then drives the training program. Job analysis data is also used for performance evaluation, and the development of compensation programs appropriate to the role.
To develop a job analysis program, practitioners use a combination of techniques, including interviews, observations and questionnaires. The information should come from different sources, including both management and the workers. This information should then by synthesized by a human resources professional.
Interviews are flexible, and can result in a large body of information that is difficult to synthesize. However, for more complex jobs, nuances can arise from the interview process that cannot be captured in a survey. Interviews are also appropriate for jobs with few employees. Questionnaires are appropriate for positions that are relatively simple, and with many employees. This is because the information is less robust, but becomes significant if it can be analyzed in the context of trends. Observation is generally appropriate only in situations where management is able to observe constantly throughout the work day.
Works Cited
Heathfield, Susan. (2008). Job Analysis. About.com. Retrieved October 25, 2008 at http://humanresources.about.com/od/jobdescriptions/g/job_analysis.htm
McNamara, Carter. (2008). Employee Task and Job Analysis. Authenticity Consulting. Retrieved October 25, 2008 at http://www.managementhelp.org/staffing/specify/job_nlyz/job_nlyz.htm
