Tasks

Every Key Result Area has a number of specific tasks for which the job holder is responsible. Some of the tasks are regular and on going; others are only current projects.

For example, the Training Officer that we mentioned earlier has a Key Result Area of "Course Developement and Design". Two tasks derived from his job could be:

• Review and improve training material on all Management Training Courses to ensure content relevance to the needs of the company.
• Open Learning programme on Time Management.

Major Tasks Breakdown

Some tasks are more important and time consuming than others. They require greater effort and resources to meet the required standards.

To handle efficiently, they require breaking down into more manageable units or sub-tasks. Without this breaking down, planning becomes ineffectual, if not impossible.

Continuing with the example of the Training Officer, one task identified by the Training Officer was an Open Learning Programme on Time Management. The sub-task breakdown for this task could be as follows:

1. Author training in Computer Based Learning Methods.
2. Research of subject and selection of material.
3. Writing of course material.
4. Programming of course materials.
5. Pilot trial of course.
6. Modify course and arrange printing of materials.

Next, you will find an example of Key Area Identification for the job of Receptionist and a table that you can print out and use to write down the Major Task Description of your job, the Key Areas and your own Sub-Task Breakdown.