A survey of 125 school systems in the United States was conducted to investigate methodologies used for developing needs assessment programs at a local level. Schools were asked to reply to a questionnaire which attempted to detail and identify how needs assessment programs are set up, what methodologies are employed, the number of resultant publications, and any important source documents used. Results indicate that few school districts have any systematic approach to defining educational needs. Frequently, needs assessment programs have been undertaken by local districts as part of a request for funds from state or federal programs; these assessments have often been regarded as necessary evils associated with accounting for government funds. Other programs have been developed to identify long-term directions and goals, or to justify decisions that have already been made, or to provide an exposition of a current problem. (JB)