Data Analysis Part Two: Needs Assessment

The needs assessment is an essential step towards improving SUNY college and university archives’ ability to collect, preserve, and make available electronic records. This needs assessment uses the data collected with the Electronic Records Inventory and the Technology Infrastructure Checklist and compares them to the Electronic Records Preservation Guidelines. in order to identify available resources, pinpoint any limitations on digital preservation efforts, and recommend solutions. While the needs assessment itself will likely be a narrative report, the Needs Assessment Template includes a worksheet to consolidate information from the Electronic Records Inventory and the Technology Scan Checklist for use in creating that report. 

Needs Assessment Guide

Needs Assessment Template

For additional information on needs assessments consult the New York State Archives publication Archival Needs Assessment Guidelines and Template.  

The challenges and recommended solutions identified in your needs assessment will contribute to the creation of your Electronic Records Plan.