Gap Analysis
By: Ray Myers, Jr., PMP
Gap analysis is a simple but useful tool that can help project managers achieve their objectives and improve performance. It is a study that helps to find ways to bridge-the-gap between the current state and a desired future state. Gap analysis can also help to understand and prioritize business needs by helping to identify any deficiencies or shortcomings that need to be overcome.
The basic principle for performing a gap analysis is simple. Define where you are today. Then describe where you want to be. The difference between the two is the gap. Here’s the process:
- Describe the current state by asking where are you now? Use checklists to help identify, categorize, and prioritize important points and concepts.
- Describe the desired future state by asking where do you want to be? Use the same checklists that were used to guide the current state assessment.
- Compare and analyze the gap or the difference between the two states.
- Look for ways to close the gap. Use tools like Brainstorming to identify specific strategies to bridge the gap.
About the Author: Ray Myers, Jr. is a PMP certified project manager with over 2o years experience planning and managing technology projects. Contact Ray at wwwpmservicesnw.com
Article source: www.pmservicesnw.com
