This paper presents a problem-focused needs assessment process for use by student affairs personnel. A comprehen- sive perspective of the needs assessment process is recommended, which views needs assessment as a necessary step in program planning, implementation and debriefing. Five types of needs assessment are identified and explained: (1) stakeholder perceptions; (2) program or policy justification; (3) satisfac- tion indices; (4) participative policy making; and (5) measurable improvement. Democratic and discrepancy definitions of needs assessment are enumerated and ways to overcome these difficulties are suggested. Major themes are outlined to provide a general framework for the work of a needs assessment team as well as the questions which must be answered. A review of the skills and staff required for assessing needs is followed by a brief discussion of the merits of internal and external needs assessors. The appendices contain instrument categories for data collection and outline major steps in the use of observation techniques, questionnaires, surveys, interviews, and existing documents. (NRB)