What is Competency Management?

Competency management involves a systematic process to ensure that the company has the necessary employees, with the right skills, knowledge and experience to ultimately deliver products and services that lead to a satisfied customer.

ISO standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 impose competency management requirements and provide guidelines to systematize and formalize the process.

ISO Standards Requirements for Competency Management

1. Identification of skills needs: The organization shall determine the necessary competencies in relation to its objectives and the requirements of the specific standard.
2. Assessment of competence: Employee current competencies are assessed to identify skills gaps.
3. Training and development: Measures are taken to develop and refine competencies through training and other learning activities.
4. Measurement, evaluation and documentation: The organisation shall measure and evaluate the impact of skills development efforts and document these to ensure that they produce the desired results.

Steps to establish effective skills management

• Competency Matrix and Needs Analysis: A competency matrix combined with a needs analysis helps to map and analyze current and future skills needs.
• Individual development plans: These ensure that employee development is aligned with both personal career goals and the needs of the organization.
• Regular evaluation and continuous improvement: Through employee conversations and feedback, you stay in line with the continuous improvement process.
• Integration with HR processes and management involvement: Competency management should be integrated into all HR processes and have strong support from management to deliver impact.

Closing and Call to Action

Investing in skills management is essential to be able to conduct business efficiently and to strengthen the company's position in the market. By following the guidelines of ISO standards and adapting them to the context of your organization, you can create a strong foundation for reducing risk, increasing efficiency and overall a better business.

Are you ready to take your company's skills management to the next level? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you establish skills management that drives success.

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