On November 7, 2007, Andrea Williford Mirsalimi presented on the topic: Needs Analysis as a Strategic Tool.

Human Resource Professionals can increase their credibility and effectiveness by conducting an annual needs assessment to identify the current business state and desired state over the next 12-18 months.  An analysis of organization and program-specific human resource needs will provide a realistic basis upon which to plan, direct and implement effective talent management programs and services; as well as evaluate the success of the previous yeas' Human Resource programs and services.  Making these connections will greatly increase the HR professionals' ability to think and act strategically.