Discusses needs assessment as a problem-focusing strategy and examines several definitions of need. Considers five purposes for assessing needs, and presents six guiding principles for the work of a needs assessment team. (RC)

Presents needs assessment as a necessary part of program planning in student affairs. Questions (N=12) are suggested as a framework to guide needs assessment activities. When staff and students become responsible for assessing their own needs, the process becomes educational and goals are more likely to be met. (JAC)