Project Overview > How to Select a Tool

Consideration #1:
Identify the Purpose

It is critical to identify the purpose of the situational assessment before selecting the type of tool to use. Most commonly, a situational assessment tool would be used for one or more of the following:

• As a method of engagement for employees so that they are active participants in the planning of their own wellness programs.
• As a starting point for creating a healthier workplace.
• As part of something larger, such as a continuous improvement strategy or a workplace strategic plan.
• To collect baseline data to be compared with any changes that may occur following the implementation of selected initiatives.
• As one of many kinds of input to the planning and implementation process of a workplace. Other inputs could include a review of "best practices" and an environmental scan for locally available services to workplaces.
• As a source of workplace-specific data to "make the case" with internal decision-makers, such as a senior management team or a board of directors. The data may also be included in a funding or sponsorship proposal.

For More Information

For more information on considerations for situational assessments, refer to:

• THCU's Introduction to Health Promotion Program Planning workbook (specifically Step 3: Identifying Goals, Audiences and Objectives) for more information on establishing goals and objectives.
• THCU's Overview of Health Communication Campaign workbook (specifically Step 3: Get to Know Your Audience) for more information on audiences.
• THCU's Introduction to Evaluating Health Promotion Programs workbook and Evaluating Comprehensive Workplace Health Promotion Info-pack for more information on evaluation.