The problem can be explored by means of "resource accounting" in which a company's records and resources are accessed.  The researcher looks for information previously gathered by the organization.  Information from journals and other outside sources should be reviewed as well.

The needs assessment can involve some observational study also.  Information can be obtained by observing the work process, setting, and the interactions of the people doing the work.  A short questionnaire can be developed and used as a written survey or as a protocol for interviewing people who may have knowledge of the problem.

Keep in mind while searching for the problem that three results are common and should be looked for:

• People are not doing what is expected because they do not know what is expected.
• People are not doing what is expected because they do not know how.
• Performance is low because of a lack of motivation.