Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) Step 1, Assessment, involves conducting a needs assessment to identify a) the nature and extent of substance use problems and related behaviors in the community (what you will prioritize; b) the risk and protective factors that influence or contribute to these substance use problems and related behavior (which may be different from community to community); and c) the existing resources and readiness of the community to address its substance use problems (where you are focusing your prevention efforts).