A performance gap analysis compares a desired state or result with the actual state or result. The difference between those two conditions constitutes the gap that the organization must address.
In this scenario, the desired result is development of future organizational leaders through the mentoring program. The TD professional compares that intended outcome with what the program actually achieved. This comparison shows whether the initiative is producing sufficient leadership-pipeline capability and where additional intervention may be required.
Descriptive analysis explains what has happened or what currently exists. Diagnostic analysis investigates why a result occurred. Prescriptive analysis recommends what actions should be taken based on available evidence. These approaches may follow the gap assessment, but the specific act of comparing desired and actual conditions is performance gap analysis.
The method is fundamental to performance improvement because it establishes whether a meaningful discrepancy exists before the practitioner attempts to diagnose causes or recommend solutions. Clearly defined desired outcomes are therefore necessary for meaningful evaluation.
Study Guide Topics: Performance Improvement; performance gap analysis; desired versus actual performance; mentoring evaluation; leadership pipeline.