Job Aid

What is a job aid?

A job aid is a resource that provides essential information about how to complete a specific task or job. Typically, job aids are designed to be easy to read so they can be quickly referenced during the task. Job aids may be created to improve the accuracy or safety of a task, increase efficiency, or facilitate decision making.

Example: We create job aids with step-by-step instructions for how to operate each piece of machinery, which we print and post for easy reference on the job.

Types of job aids 

Job aids can take multiple formats depending on the job, task, or intended user. Sometimes, they are printed documents that are posted around the workplace; other times, they are housed digitally. If a job aid is introducing a brand new task, it might contain a short introduction paragraph with important context about the update. 

For example, if a job aid is used in one-on-one interviews to help interviewers gather information about top candidates, it might take the form of a decision table with spaces to identify individuals’ top strengths and weaknesses. 

Best practices for creating job aids

To create successful job aids, ensure they are succinct and easy to reference during the task at hand, but contain detailed instructions when applicable. Consider using simple icons and bolding key phrases to make the document easy to scan. For tasks that require decision making, be sure to include white space on the job aid to allow for note taking. 

Prior to finalization, be sure to review the job aid not only with managers and other stakeholders, but also members of the target audience to ensure the content is as clear and useful as possible.