Needs assessment is an important element in training design, and organizational diversity training programs are frequently criticized for their lack of attention to the needs assessment process. This paper explores the link between needs assessment and diversity training design. First, a review of the needs assessment literature reveals that an emphasis on organizational analysis has led to the neglect of other kinds of assessment data. Second, a review of the diversity training literature identifies five areas of controversy. We describe the needs assessment questions that organizations can ask to resolve each controversy and better tailor diversity training to their own needs. Finally, based on the design controversies and needs assessment questions, we provide an agenda for future research on the effectiveness of various kinds of diversity training interventions
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