First Things Fast: A Handbook for Performance Analysis, Second Edition

6.1. Methods for Gathering Information and Support

There are four methods for gathering information and support during analysis. What I'll do here is briefly describe them and then make some comparisons, focusing particularly on how they can be helpful during a speedy PA. More detailed treatment of these methods is provided in my book Training Needs Assessment (1987). In Chapter Seven, I focus in particular on the implications of technology for interviews, groups, and surveys.

6.1.1. Interviews and Focus Groups

Interviews are the most typical way of gathering performance analysis data. Focus groups, though popular, occur less often. Table 6.1 is a brief comparison of interviews and focus groups.

Both focus groups and interviews depend on the ...