These procedural guidelines contain a "how to do it package" with sample forms, procedures, and techniques that a local vocational education program administrator can use to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment. It is divided into five modules, each covering a different phase of the process so that the local administrator can undertake the entire process or only certain portions. These phases are covered: population analysis (general, student, recent graduates), existing program analysis, resource analysis (facilities, personnel, financial), business and industry survey and job market analysis, and patron needs analysis (student survey, student followup, parent/guardian survey, adult/community survey, special needs groups). Following a section on program plan development, a form for identifying and prioritizing discrepancies is provided. The final section of the manual contains information on describing, interpreting, and presenting data, ideas, and concepts more simply and effectively to develop needs assessment for vocational programs. Appendixes include information on a time management plan, sampling procedures, and determining sample size. (YLB)