Preparation and set-up

The diagram below provides details of the key things to consider when preparing to undertake a JSNA. Preparation is key to ensuring that everyone is clear about the scope and aim of the JSNA, all relevant partners are included and directly involved in the process from the beginning. It is important that the governance and management arrangements have been considered and agreed in advance. The principles outlined in the diagram are similar to that of managing a project.

When developing a framework for undertaking a JSNA it is important to consider what type of health needs assessment (see section x above) could be useful for informing your evaluation. It is important to consider what data (both qualitative and quantitative) and evidence is available to inform your assessment.

Useful tools for stage 1

A handy checklist to use as part of your preparation and set-up discussions to ensure you have adequate resources and procedures in place has been provided in appendix x.