Posted by Worksite Wellness | Posted in worksite wellness programs | Posted on 03-02-2009
A gap analysis is an assessment tool that enables a organization to compare its current capabilities and performance with industry benchmarks and expectations for performance. A gap analysis is used to identify areas that have room for improvement.
Gap analysis can also be used for your Worksite Wellness Program to determine where the program stands now and how the Worksite Wellness Program can better follow evidence-based recommendations.
To start a gap analysis, ask these simple questions about your Worksite Wellness Program:
• What is the current state of the Worksite Wellness Program?
• How does the Worksite Wellness Program measure up to evidence-based practices? (i.e., the desired state)
The gap is the difference between the current and desired states.
After the gap has been identified, the next step is to determine the action steps that are needed to close the gap. These actions answer the question: “How can the Worksite Wellness Program move forward towards the desired state?”
Sometimes the gaps that need to be filled can be addressed through Worksite Wellness Program changes; other gaps might require policy changes. However, using a gap analysis will help you identify areas for Worksite Wellness Program improvement as well as the actions needed to make progress towards those goals.