In their widely cited volume, Witkin and Altschuld (1995, pp. 48–49) identify no fewer than 26 different techniques for conducting needs assessments. However, these techniques represent a much smaller number of overall methodological approaches. In the following analysis I modify Witkin and Altschuld’s typology in order to examine the extent to which the claims of various stakeholders are legitimated by some of the most well-known needs assessment strategies.