Job aids are any tool that directs or guides a performance of work. They can be high tech, like the mobile Bridge Inspector Reference Manual app; low tech, like a document template; or no tech, like a reminder scribbled on a sticky note. What makes job aids so useful is that they are handy, easy to read, and focused. Job aids can feature graphics, tables, diagrams, and photographs to support workers with low literacy skills or non-native English readers. They can be used in a classroom setting, for on-the-job training, or as post-training reinforcements. Job aids can be created for all kinds of repetitive tasks, complex processes, unique situations, or changes in work routines.

Job aids help to decrease training or retraining time, reduce errors; boost productivity; and increase customer and employee satisfaction. One downside to job aids is that those designed for complex tasks or processes can be very long. Workers may need to scan a large poster or flip pages in a manual to find the section(s) they need to reference.

Common job aids include:

• Information sources—Contain facts that are organized according to their natural structure or how they will be used. A phone directory or a list of error codes are examples of information sources.
• Process prompts—Explain how and when to do something. Tend to be verb-oriented. Examples of process prompts include instruction sheets or flow charts.
• Coaching guides—Provide suggestions, not directions on how to complete the work. Good for new, difficult, or ambiguous situations. Sometimes present different perspectives. This handbook is an example of a coaching guide.

Table 5 presents several job aids and when they may be useful.

Table 5: Job Aid Options

Job Aid Format	Description	Useful Situations
Checklist	Groups of items to remember or consider	A task with: Steps that do not need to be completed in specific sequence Inspection, observation, or planning components
Decision Table	Table that lists options for completing a task based on a set of conditions	A task with: Several yes/no decisions to be made Decisions that must be made in a specific order A completion path guided by answers to the questions
Form or Worksheet	Directions that guide worker through the process and provide a place to record information	A task with: Steps that must be completed in a specific sequence A routine that involves calculations Information that must be documented so it can be referenced later
Reference Source	Information required to complete the task	A task with: Steps that do not need to be completed in specific sequence A need for data not performance of a process or procedure
Step-by-step Instructions	Information and direction presented in a sequence	A task with: Steps that must be completed in a specific sequence A linear procedure that requires no decision making Only one completion path to follow