Competency frameworks, when done well, can increase clarity around performance expectations and establish a clear link between individual and organisational performance. When developing and implementing a framework, care needs to be taken to balance detail with flexibility and avoid an overly prescriptive and non-inclusive approach.

This factsheet investigates the nature of competence and competency frameworks, both in theory and practice. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of competency-based approaches and offers guidance for developing and implementing frameworks effectively.

Contents

Members access only

Unlock exclusive, tailored content and resources, just for members.

Sign in to access

Not a member yet? Find out how you can become a member today!

CIPD Trust

Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.

Find out more

Bullying
and harassment

Discover our practice guidance and recommendations to tackle bullying and harassment in the workplace.

View our resources

Related content

Podcast
Driving performance with people analytics

People metrics are not often black and white, but how can you better utilise people data to paint a truer picture of employee performance?

Bitesize research
Improving feedback to improve performance

This research outlines recommendations for making feedback discussions more constructive

For Members
Factsheet
Performance reviews

Understand the basics of performance reviews and how to ensure the process adds value to the organisation

For Members
Factsheet
Performance management: an introduction

Understand how to build an effective approach to performance management, including the tools that can support it

Explore our other factsheets

Factsheet
Learning theories that impact on design

Learn about the influence of theories on how people learn and the shift away from simplistic learning styles theory

For Members
Factsheet
Harassment and bullying at work

Understand what bullying and harassment at work is, and how employers and employees can address the problem

Factsheet
Wellbeing at work

Understand the links between work, health and wellbeing, and the role of stakeholders in adopting an organisational approach to employee wellbeing

For Members
Factsheet
Reward: an introduction

Introduces the basics of reward, which includes pay and benefits, and outlines the UK legal position

Factsheets