Step-by-step framework for planning and conducting essential skills research
Practical tools, checklists, and tips for effective project management
Designed for workforce developers, industry associations, and training providers
Practical framework for identifying workforce skill needs
Sectoral Needs Assessment: A Process for Essential Skills Analysis provides one of the earliest comprehensive approaches to linking essential skills research with workforce planning. It outlines a structured process for gathering and interpreting data to understand the real skill needs of an industry—helping employers, educators, and policymakers make informed decisions about training and development. The guide remains a valuable reference for organizations conducting labour market or workforce research. While Canada’s framework has evolved from Essential Skills to Skills for Success, the principles and processes in this guide—such as stakeholder engagement, data collection, and translating findings into action—remain foundational to any skills analysis. Developed in 2000 with funding from the National Literacy Secretariat of Human Resources Development Canada and Alberta Learning.
Thank you for supporting our work by purchasing this resource.
Copyright © 2000 Alberta Workforce Essential Skills (AWES) All rights reserved. This resource is protected by copyright law. You’re welcome to download and use it for your own learning or within your organization. Sharing, distributing, or posting this file publicly in any form (digital or print) is not permitted without prior written permission from AWES. You may reproduce or quote brief excerpts for educational or reference purposes, in accordance with standard copyright and fair dealing provisions, as long as Alberta Workforce Essential Skills (AWES) is clearly credited as the source. If you’d like to reproduce, adapt, or include this resource in another publication, presentation, or training product, please contact us first at [email protected] — we’re always happy to explore permissions and collaborations. Citation example: Alberta Workforce Essential Skills. (2000). [Resource Title]. Calgary, AB: AWES. ISBN 0-9688136-0-7
Get your copy today and learn how to identify and address real skill gaps in your industry.
Purchase your copy to access proven methods for analyzing workforce needs and making informed training and development decisions.
$155.00