While gap analysis is a general term covering a range of high level analytical activities over the gaps, the gap assessment is more focused upon individual gaps and leads to
- identification and analysis of a limited number of factors and measurements causing the gap and
- finding practical way(s) to eliminate the gap or mitigate its consequences.
The ultimate goal of any gap assessment exercise is to establish a control over the gaps, plan for and prioritize gap elimination actions, or build a knowledge base about those gaps which can’t be eliminated, and develop mitigation measures.
Here is the simplistic graphical representation of the gap assessment process
This method can be applied to the whole range of circumstances where gap assessment is required and we have used it as a basis of design for the GA Lab system. It helps to create the comprehensive register of all gaps, risks, actions and deviations. The best examples of its application can be following:
- Quality management (QA/QC audits and self-verification)
- Design assurance (design verification)
- Competency assurance (skills gap analysis)
- Project management (project controls gap analysis)