Difference Between Job Analysis and Job Description (with Comparison Chart) - Key Differences 22/11/2019, 18:40

Difference Between Job Analysis

and Job Description
Last updated on July 26, 2018 by Surbhi S

Job Analysis can be understood as the process of gathering information

related to the specific job. The information encompasses knowledge,
skill, and ability, possessed by the incumbent, to perform the job
effectively. It is helpful in the preparation of job description and job
specification. Job description is a document indicating what a job
covers, i.e. tasks, responsibilities, duties, powers and authorities,
attached to a job.

In finer terms, Job Analysis means an in-depth examination and

evaluation of a particular Job. Conversely, Job Description is a statement
that characterizes of a particular job.

At present, these two concepts have gained much importance because

of extreme competition; all the organization wants to put the right man at
the right job. But it can only be possible if you thoroughly investigate the
details regarding the Job. so, here in this article, we will explain the
difference between job analysis and job description, in tabular form.

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Difference Between Job Analysis and Job Description (with Comparison Chart) - Key Differences 22/11/2019, 18:40

Content: Job Analysis Vs Job Description

1. Comparison Chart
2. Definition
3. Key Differences
4. Conclusion

Comparison Chart

Basis for
Job Analysis Job Description
Comparison
A deep research on a particular A comprehensive job
job to ascertain every small summary depicting the job
Meaning
details about it, is known as contents in short but in an
Job Analysis. exhaustive manner.
What is it? Process Statement
A process of determining all
A concise statement of what
Concept the necessary requirements
a job demands.
and aspects of a job.
Tasks, responsibilities, skill,
Duties and Responsibilities,
abilities, working conditions
Incorporates authority, purpose and scope
and adaptabilities of a certain
of a specific job.
job.
Mode Oral or Written Written
Helpful in ascertaining
Helpful in Recruitment and whether an applicant is
Advantage
Selection of manpower eligible as per the set
standards.

Definition of Job Analysis

Job Analysis is a detailed examination and evaluation of the job to

determine the necessary information regarding the nature of the job. It
includes thorough study, observation, and reporting of what the job
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Difference Between Job Analysis and Job Description (with Comparison Chart) - Key Differences 22/11/2019, 18:40

involves, qualifications of the job holder, working conditions, abilities,

skills, competencies, duties, responsibilities, etc. Job Description and
Job Specification are the two products of Job Analysis. It is performed by
an expert known as Job Analyst.

Uses of Job Analysis

Information for job analysis may be collected through interviews with

incumbents and supervisors, questionnaires, surveys, position analysis,
checklists, etc.

Job Analysis is carried out to pick the appropriate candidate from some
applicants who is best suited for the concerned job. The analysis may
include research of necessary skills, knowledge, and qualifications
required for doing a job because every job is different in itself. The
importance of Job Analysis in an organization is as under:

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Difference Between Job Analysis and Job Description (with Comparison Chart) - Key Differences 22/11/2019, 18:40

Performance Appraisal
Compensation Management
Job Re-engineering
Health and Safety
Job Evaluation

Definition of Job Description

Job Description is a written document which narrates the job contents in

a systematic manner describing, What are the tasks performed by a
worker? And How they are to be performed? It is prepared on the basis
of Job Analysis and therefore, the effectiveness of Job Description
depends on how well the procedure of Job Analysis is accomplished.

Job Description is an explanatory prospectus which records the job facts

which are appropriate as well as authorised. It usually contains the
following content:

Introduction of job
Designation
Job Summary
Duties and Responsibilities
Training details
Authorities
Salary Range
Reporting authority
Performance Standards

Job Description is used as an essential tool for eliminating the unfit

applicants for the concerned job. Apart from that, it helped the
organisation to set standards for choosing the appropriate candidate for
the job by asking relevant questions at the time of interview.

Key Differences Between Job Analysis and Job

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Description
The points given below are substantial so far as the difference between
job analysis and job description is concerned:

1. The careful study of each and every aspect of a particular job is

known as Job Analysis. A descriptive statement that lists out all
necessary job facts is known as Job Description.
2. Job Analysis is performed first, on the basis of which Job
Description is created.
3. Job Analysis can be done either orally or written. Conversely, Job
Description is developed only in a written format.
4. Job Analysis is a process, whereas Job Description is a statement.
5. Job Analysis is a basis for Job Evaluation but with the help of Job
Description Advertisement for the job can be placed for recruitment
purposes.

Conclusion

Job Analysis is a function conducted by the Job Analyst taking the whole
staff of the organisation into consideration. In this process first of all
the collection of background information is done in which the details of a
particular job are extracted in relation to other jobs. After that, the job
data are collected from the seniors, juniors, co-workers etc. A trade job
analyst is appointed to watch the employees while they perform the job.

Finally, job description and job specification are created on the basis of
the collected information and facts. So the candidates must possess the
qualifications as described in the Job Description.

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