Final answer:
Job descriptions outline the duties and tasks of a job, while job specifications detail the qualifications and skills needed for the job.
Step-by-step explanation:
Job descriptions and job specifications are both important components of a job analysis, but they serve different purposes.
A job description outlines the duties, responsibilities, and tasks that are required to perform a specific job. It includes information about the general nature of the work, its purpose, and the essential functions that need to be performed. For example, a job description for a customer service representative might include tasks such as answering customer inquiries, resolving complaints, and maintaining customer records.
In contrast, a job specification focuses on the qualifications, skills, knowledge, and experience that an individual needs to possess in order to perform the job successfully. It includes information about the education, certifications, work experience, and any specific competencies that are required to perform the job. For example, a job specification for a nurse might include requirements such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a valid nursing license, and experience in a clinical setting.