The Intensive Technical Assistance Assessment Tool was originally developed for use in states and communities participating in Smart Start's National Technical Assistance Center's intensive technical assistance program. It is designed to identify specific areas where technical assistance will be of benefit. Assessment results are used to develop individualized technical assistance plans. Previous studies have shown that the tool is indeed effective in determining technical assistance needs. Moreover, the assessment process in and of itself increased participants' knowledge of systems development; strengthened collaborative relationships; and spurred immediate action. There are no right or wrong answers in the Assessment Tool -- it is intended to help determine what areas might benefit from intensive technical assistance. It is important to bear in mind that not one state or community has accomplished or defined every systems-building component listed in the Assessment Tool. Rather, the assessment is intended to facilitate a discussion about issues that are critical to the successful development of a comprehensive, community-based early childhood system.