Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of job analysis?

1. To create employee schedules and manage workflow

2. To determine activities, qualifications, work conditions, and reporting structure of jobs

3. To assess employee performance and productivity

4. To develop training programs for employee development

The correct answer is: To determine activities, qualifications, work conditions, and reporting structure of jobs

The primary purpose of job analysis is to determine the activities, qualifications, work conditions, and reporting structure of jobs. This process involves a thorough examination of what a job entails, including the specific tasks and responsibilities, the skills and qualifications needed for successful performance, the physical and environmental conditions under which the work is performed, and how the position fits within the organization’s hierarchy. By conducting a job analysis, organizations can create accurate job descriptions and specifications that serve as essential tools for recruitment, selection, performance evaluation, and training. Understanding the nuances of each role allows HR professionals and managers to align employee capabilities with job requirements effectively, ensuring a better fit between employees and their roles within the company. This alignment is crucial for fostering employee satisfaction and productivity. In contrast, the other options do not encapsulate the core purpose of job analysis as thoroughly. Employee scheduling and managing workflow focus more on operational aspects, while assessing performance centers around evaluating current employee effectiveness rather than analyzing job functions. Developing training programs can be a consequence of insights gained from job analysis, but it is not the primary focus of the analysis itself.