LMSW Program Development

what are the steps of program development

step 1: Conduct a needs assessment: Explore the problem and gather information

step 2: establish the planning team/create a task force

step 3: define the goals and objectives of the program based on results of the needs assessment

step 4: Develop an action plan and timeline for implementation

step 5: implement the action plan/ logic model

Step 1: Conduct a needs assessment: Explore the problem and gather information

A community needs assessment is done to develop an informed understanding of the gaps or needs that exist within a community and their impacts upon the community’s members. ● A community needs assessment identies the strengths and resources available in the community to meet the needs of children, youth, and families.

● 5 Steps of Conducting a Community Needs Assessment:

what are the 5 steps of conducting a community needs assessment

Step 1: Dene the Scope: What issue are you looking at? Housing? Mental Health?

Step 2: Collaborate: Partner with existing groups/organizations.

Step 3: Collect Data: Use things such as surveys, focus groups, demographic information, and/or interviews.

Step 4: Determine Key Findings.

Step 5: Share your Findings.

Step 2: Establish the planning team/ Create a task force

Identify and build a team of key staff to be included in the planning, development, and implementation process for the new program.

● Task forces are usually for larger programs.

● Note: this is the team that will be developing the program, not the people that will staff the program itself.

Step 3: Define the goals and objectives of the program based on results of the needs assessment

The goal(s) should dene what the program is specically looking to achieve in order to address the identied problem(s) from the Community Needs Assessment.

● The goal(s) describe the overall, measurable outcomes or changes that you are expecting through the implementation of the program

The objectives specify the measurable tasks that will occur in order to achieve the broader programmatic goals

Step 4: Develop an action plan and timeline for implementation

Programs should be research-supported and theoretically sound ○ Gather and organize data on programs that have addressed similar issues. ○ If you haven’t already done so at the beginning, conduct a literature review. A literature review is a process of gathering relevant information from multiple sources. It involves a critical, in-depth evaluation of previous research on a specified topic.

● Clarify the components of the program. ○ Identify program activities, output, and outcomes of the program.

● Identify people and resources needed for successful implementation of the program. ○ Outline teaching and learning methods for staff.

● Determine benchmarks and tools/measures for assessment and evaluation. ○ How we will measure success should be determined during the program development process. This is critical in evaluating whether or not goals are met. ○ This will ensure data is used throughout program implementation, influencing the development of the program and can be used for continuous improvement throughout.

● Create a timeline with a schedule for the implementation of the program.

step 5: Implement the action plan/ Logic model

Evaluate progress throughout and make adjustments as needed.