Q. What is a needs assessment?
In planning context, need refers to the discrepancy (the gap) between the present state "what is" and the desired end state "what should be"
Importantly, it must be recognised that 'need' is multifaceted and need assessments must consider; normative need (identified by experts or according to a standard), comparative need (derived through comparison with other 'like' areas), felt need (what communities say or feel they need), and expressed need (demonstrated through community behaviour).
Q. What is a feasibility study?
A feasibility study should critically assess a proposal to build a community facility to enable the City to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the proposed project.
The feasibility study is a crucial part of the City's planning process, with consideration of the City’s resources, budget and availability of work plans. A facility should be designed for and with the community, facilitate community interaction, create a community hub and be affordable. The outcome of any feasibility study should be a set of recommendations about whether and how to proceed with the facility, based on an identification of needs and the City's/funders capacity to satisfy those needs.
