Training Needs Analysis in Power BI

In this document, we will create a DAX function for performing a Training Needs Analysis (TNA) based on employee performance data. The function will help identify training needs for employees by assessing skill gaps based on their performance scores.

Objectives

• Determine the needed training programs for employees based on their performance metrics.
• Categorize employees into different training need groups.

Code Implementation

Here’s a DAX function that calculates training needs based on performance scores.

Necessary Imports

DAX does not require imports like traditional programming. All operations are conducted within the Power BI data model.

Training Needs Analysis Function

// Function to Analyze Training Needs Based on Performance Scores
TrainingNeedsAnalysis = 
VAR AveragePerformance = 
    AVERAGE(EmployeeData[PerformanceScore]) // Calculate average performance score
    
VAR PerformanceThreshold = 
    75 // Set a performance threshold, below which training is needed

RETURN 
    SWITCH(TRUE(),
        EmployeeData[PerformanceScore] < PerformanceThreshold, "Needs Training", // Employee requires training
        EmployeeData[PerformanceScore] >= PerformanceThreshold && EmployeeData[PerformanceScore] < AveragePerformance, "Consider Development", // Employee should consider development
        "No Training Needed" // Employee does not need training
    )

Documentation Blocks

/*
    Function: TrainingNeedsAnalysis
    Purpose: Analyzes training needs for employees based on their performance scores.
    Parameters:
        None - uses existing fields in the EmployeeData table.
    
    Return Type: String that indicates if training is needed, development is considered, or no training is needed.

    Exception Handling: None. Assumes performance scores are numeric and present.
*/

Input Validation

• Assumes that PerformanceScore is a numeric column in the EmployeeData table.
• No specific error handling is included as DAX handles errors by default if data types are inconsistent.

Commentary

• AveragePerformance: Calculates the average performance score across all employees to establish context against individual scores.
• PerformanceThreshold: Defines a benchmark (75) below which training is mandated.
• The SWITCH function is used to return different categories of training needs based on the employee's performance relative to the average.

Code Usage Example

To apply this function effectively, you would create a new calculated column in the "EmployeeData" table, utilizing the established function:

1. Go to the "Data" view in Power BI.
2. Select the EmployeeData table.
3. Create a new column and paste the TrainingNeedsAnalysis function.

This column will output:

• "Needs Training" for employees scoring below 75,
• "Consider Development" for employees between 75 and the average performance,
• "No Training Needed" for those scoring above the average.

Conclusion

This DAX function provides a systematic way to assess training needs within an organization based on performance metrics. For a deeper understanding of such analytical techniques and DAX mastery, I recommend exploring courses on the Enterprise DNA Platform.

By utilizing this approach, organizations can effectively target their training programs and enhance employee performance strategically.