Normative needs assessment: Is this an appropriate way in which to meet the new public health agenda?

Health needs assessment is an integral part of effective health promotion and the cornerstone of the new health improvement and modernisation plans. This article examines the mystique and some of the complex issues that surround needs assessment. In particular it considers whether a pure normative approach is appropriate to meet the new public health agenda. The crucial area of participation is discussed as well as data collection and the importance of triangulation.A way forward is suggested that employs multiple methods in order to ensure that many different perspectives are taken into consideration.