Findings from a training needs analysis survey to support health professionals across the research lifecycle

Undertaking a training needs analysis (TNA) in a health library context can be a useful tool for gathering evidence that supports service redesign. This article focuses on the findings of a TNA survey undertaken at a health library in northern Australia.

The aim of this study was to discover the information and training needs of health department staff who work across six hospitals and numerous rural and remote clinics, with a focus on research project support.

An online survey was undertaken in August 2018 to gather data from departmental staff.

There were 131 responses to the survey. Results indicated that a number of staff are either currently involved with or are intending to undertake a research project in the next year. The majority felt their searching skills were average or above average, but there are still those who struggle. Advanced Search Strategies was the most requested workshop to add to the current training programme and both in-person and virtual delivery are desirable.

The results of this survey have been used to implement a number of changes to the library's educational services and the library's website has been updated.