Question

An important part of I/O psychology is in understanding job analysis the personnel products it yields and its importance in work organizations.

• Describe the different methods of gathering job analysis data. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Job descriptions and job specifications are products of job analyses.
• Describe the main differences between a job description and a job specification. Explain why both may be needed when creating a job advertisement.

Answer 1

Job analysis is the process of studying and collecting information on responsibilities and operations of a particular job. job description and job specification are the main two components of job analysis.

Job description is the basic amount of skill, education and experience which is necessary to carry out the job. Example: training need for the job.

Job specification are the summary of duties, tasks and responsibilities of the particular job. Example: working hours, salary etc.

Both job description and job specification are needed for creating an job advertisement as their function mentioned above, they perform different roles. job description is needed for the person to know whether he could apply for the post is he qualified for the job and job specification give direction in which the person need to work.

Job analysis data can be gathered through different means depending on the work setting. some of them are interview,observation, questionnaire, checklist, technical conference etc.