The primary purpose of a training needs assessment is to identify the:

A training needs assessment is used toidentify gapsbetween current performance and desired outcomes. This analysis revealsunderlying organizational issuesthat training may help resolve, such as performance deficits, compliance gaps, or skill shortages.

Extract from HRCI-aligned HR knowledge (Learning and Development):

SPHR-level HR is expected to “analyze organizational performance problems to determine whether training is a viable solution.” The goal isroot cause identification, not just content creation or audience targeting.