Needs analysis for construction projects
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
A needs analysis is a systematic information gathering process carried out to determine whether or not something (such as a project) is justified. It may also be referred to as a needs assessment, situational analysis or organisational diagnosis.
The difference between a needs analysis and a feasibility study is minor but crucial. A needs analysis is primarily based on the needs or gaps in an organisation, while a feasibility study discounts the need and weighs both the strengths and weaknesses of an organisation or project to establish whether the project is viable. For building projects, a needs analysis occurs before feasibility studies take place.
A needs analysis can be formal or informal. The format and scope are often dependent on the scale of the project. If analysis justifies a specific course of action, it may be necessary to revisit the report if conditions change significantly. At this point a new assessment may be required to validate the continuation of the course of action. It may also dictate a change to the original plan of action and initiate a new needs analysis.
The analysis will establish what resources are available and determine how they can best be used. This information can help to support current and future activities and serve as the basis for assessing progress as an organisation moves towards its goal.
[edit] Components of a needs analysis
A needs analysis is typically made up of three phases:
- Gap analysis. This looks at the current state of an organisation and assesses where it hopes to be at a certain point in time.
- Priority setting. This organises goals into a practical list of key actions and determines the order of the goals based on realities and limitations.
- Plan completion. An integrated plan based on the information gathered that will result in a report setting out whether or not the business case for a project is justified.
[edit] Needs assessments and facilities management
Within facilities management departments, it can be useful to conduct needs assessments in conjunction with service management strategies - particularly in terms of soft facilities management. By conducting a facilities needs assessment, managers can feel more comfortable making decisions such as whether to outsource services that are not part of the organisation's core activities.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help the homebuilding sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.