A job analysis is the process used to collect information about the duties, responsibilities, necessary skills, outcomes, and work environment of a particular job. As much data as possible is needed to put together a job description, which is the frequent outcome of the job analysis. Additional outcomes include recruiting plans, position postings and advertisements, and performance development planning within a performance management system.

The job analysis may include these activities:

•Reviewing the job responsibilities of current employees,

•Doing internet research and viewing sample job descriptions online or offline highlighting similar jobs,

•Analyzing the work duties, tasks, and responsibilities that need to be accomplished by the employee filling the position,

•Researching and sharing with other companies that have similar jobs, and

•Articulation of the most important outcomes or contributions needed from the position.

The more information gathered, the easier the actual writing of the job description will be.