The analysis phase of e-learning project development is perhaps the most critical as it helps you uncover information that is crucial for your project to be successful with your intended audience. There are several different types of analysis you should be aware of, all of which play an integral role in the overall operation and success of the project.

Different Types of Analysis

It is a good idea to perform the below types of analysis at various stages of your e-learning project. Some types of analysis require little effort and research, whereas others call for a more in-depth look at your organizational documents, audience surveys, and more.

Needs Analysis

Needs Analysis is used to determine the gap between where you currently are and where you’d ideally like to be. With this learning gap identified, you’ll be able to tailor the learning experience more effectively for your future users. You will get the information for a needs analysis from speaking with your targeted audience, managers, instructors, and human resource staff members. A great way to collect the information you are looking for is to conduct surveys and provide questionnaires to your users in order to assess their knowledge and skill-level prior to them engaging in your e-learning project.

User Analysis

User analysis is another important type of analysis that will help your developers better understand the audience. In taking a more in-depth look at the target audience group, you will then be able to design an e-learning project that they will respond to and be willing to participate in. It is helpful to identify the following in order to get a good idea of who your users are and what elements they will respond to and are looking for in an e-learning project:

• Demographics
• Education level
• Computer literacy
• Preferred type of learning
• Work responsibilities & roles
• Social characteristics

The best way to get this information is to conduct interviews and provide surveys to your targeted group.

Task Analysis

A Task Analysis looks at the specific tasks your users will have to perform and what the intended learning outcomes of your project are. During this study you will be able to break down the tasks associated with a specific job role, skill, or learning outcome. This may include looking at task descriptions, difficulty of tasks, skills and equipment required, and the role of the environment in completing the tasks. In order to get this information you should speak with those considered experts in the field, look over relevant training materials, and observe those in the field.

Important Analysis Questions

To get a better idea of what you need to do in order to set your learners up for success with your e-learning project, it may be helpful for you to ask the following questions during the analysis phase:

• What do you expect users to be able to do once they have finished your course or training program?
• Have you found any specific performance mistakes that new users are making regularly?
• What resources or training tools do experts use to perform the specific tasks?
• Do you know the consequences the learner will experience if they fail to successfully complete your course?

E-learning is a wonderful tool used for training and as a way to provide knowledge to interested individuals in a controlled and accessible manner. In order to ensure your project is successful and users are engaged, it is important to perform the above listed types of analysis. By taking a deeper look at the intended tasks, audience, and needs, you will better be able to control whether or not people are getting what you desired out of the course or module. Contact us today so we can help your organization with a needs analysis.