competence

Competence methods must meet two tests: validity (i.e. how directly they relate to job requirements), and reliability (i.e. how consistent are the assessment results).

Conventional approaches based on CVs, qualifications and experience fail on both counts - yet many employers still rely on such evidence! The 'NVQ' approach offers high reliability, but validity is a problem - especially for experienced, specialist, or professional personnel. Systems based on personality traits and 'core competencies' are notoriously unreliable in assessment. There is an alternative.  Competence management systems can be valid for the business and reliable in delivery, with 'slimline' competency standards aligned to key business processes.

Rowanhill were pioneers in the field of systematic, risk-based approaches to competence management, with over 20 years' practical and theoretical experience.

On these pages we share some of our thoughts.  Follow the links in the box headed "More on competence"   --->