Task analysis is a step in the analysis stage of the instructional systems design process, also commonly referred to as the ADDIE process. It is used to determine the focus of training and the content needed to address a training need or a performance issue due to a skill gap. This in turn, helps you:
Define the objectives.
Envision the instructional strategies.
Develop assessment strategies.
Task analysis is usually accompanied by other forms of analysis, such as:
Learner analysis: You need to understand the learner profile in order to design suitable instructional strategies to help your learners achieve the learning objectives. A learner’s profile includes details such as their prerequisite knowledge, age, gender, educational background, learning styles and preferences, access to the Internet, and so on. Learner analysis is a key input for task analysis.
Context analysis: Before designing instruction, it is also important to understand where and how instruction will be delivered. Where will the instruction be used in the real world? Context analysis addresses these questions.
Needs analysis: Needs analysis involves identifying the gaps between the desired and existing skill levels. Based on the gaps, one needs to identify the appropriate training and other interventions that could help close the gaps.