How to Distinguish a Job Description From a Job Analysis
Although a job description is similar to a job analysis, they are different in their purpose. The purpose of a job analysis is to analyze the requirements and responsibilities of a job so an accurate description of the job can be written. Once you complete the job analysis you will be able to use the information to write the job description. Typically, the description of a job is a composite or summary that is derived from an analysis of the job.
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Instructions
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Determine whether the document you are looking at is a job description or job analysis by looking at its length and format. If it is a short description of requirements and responsibilities and is written in an outline format, it is a job description. If it is a lengthy explanation of the job requirements and responsibilities, it is a job analysis. Requirements include years of experience and educational level needed and physical and mental tasks required, such as lifting, cleaning, managing and analyzing.
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Read the document to check for detailed information on how various tasks will be performed and how equipment will be used. If there is a detailed explanation of tasks and equipment usage, the document is a job analysis, not a job description. For instance, a fork lift driver job analysis might state that the job requires one year experience operating a fork lift to lift aluminum, plastics and raw materials over 200 lbs. and the ability to physically lift 50 or more lbs.
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Notice how knowledge, skills, qualifications and personality traits are explained on the document. Is there a lengthy explanation of the skills required to perform each task and operate the specified equipment? Or is there a list or outline of them? If there is a detailed explanation of the knowledge, skills and qualifications needed to perform the job duties, the document is a job analysis. For instance, a job analysis for a training manager might state that the job requires knowledge of adult learning theories, 5 years training and development experience, a certification in instructional design with 3 years experience using the instructional design software, Dreamweaver, implementation of virtual training and e-learning platforms and knowledge of learning management systems. Personality traits listed might include characteristics such as being upbeat and people-oriented. Unlike a job description, a job analysis will also state the reason the job exists and explain the job goals and how these goals relate to other positions within the company.
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Look at the top of the document for a job title and information about who the position reports to. The job title and who the position reports to will be at the top of a job description. Also, a job description briefly summarizes the job with major and minor duties listed, whereas a job analysis will describe in exhaustive detail all duties, responsibilities, skills and knowledge needed to perform the job.
Finally, a job description indicates the level of authority and responsibility the job holds in relation to other positions in the company, whereas a job analysis typically does not mention reporting structure. For instance, if the job is a director level position it would hold a higher level of authority and responsibility than a middle or upper level manager position, which will be stated on the job description.
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