WRITING TIP #3: Know Your Target Audience

WRITING TIP #3: 

Know Your Target Audience

When writing a needs assessment report, think of this example: people write resumes in a generic fashion so they can be changed slightly depending on where they apply for work. Do the same for your needs assessment report. Write the report using the simple steps outlined in this blog. The end result will be your generic report. As you find opportunities to share information about the needs of your organization, think about the funding source or the administrative group that can make decisions to help you proceed with your expansion, new program, or anything that is needed for your program or service.

If you are seeking funding from an outside source, gather information about them. Look at their mission statement, website, and other relevant information to discover what is important to them. More than likely, the needs of your program or service will align, however, if you don't highlight this information within your needs assessment report, you may lose this opportunity for funding. On the other hand, you may find that this is not a good fit, and you can focus your efforts elsewhere.

If you need the support of administration or governing boards within your organization or partner, you may still want to gather additional information that may help you streamline the information outlined in your report that will highlight areas that are important to your organization.

Lastly, think of the common language and acronyms used withing your program or service. Is it different from those you are seeking support? If so, you may find that you need to provide a brief summary or explanation of items within your report. You may even find the common language or acronyms used by them and incorporate them within your report.