ABSTRACT
A needs analysis is a comprehensive process that helps you identify current operational policies, procedures, infrastructure, software and hardware.2 It analyzes the operation from the standpoint of every stakeholder. The needs analysis process strives to ask questions about the project and to determine whether the venture is worthwhile. For example, if a jail manager wants to replace the jail information management system ( JIMS), he would first need to understand how JIMS affects correctional officers or inmates. What are the core functions of JIMS? Are there any specific policies and guidelines that dictate the parameters of the jail information management system? Do they need to be replaced or revised as well? The needs analysis should review all manual and automated systems, including current databases and networks. The analysis should also review the layout between each system, security issues or requirements.
