Research Paper on:
Competency Based Models of Assessment and the Workplace

Unformatted Sample Text from the Research Paper:
illustrations are included. Bibliography lists 6 sources. PGwkcp.msw WORKPLACE AND COMPETENCY BASED ASSESSMENT MODELS , September, 2001 for more information on using  this paper properly! Introduction Work assessment models, including competency based assessment models are being used more often in both the private and public sector. As with all innovations, there  are both positive and negative sides to the issue of using competency based approaches as the primary evaluation model. First of all, there is a lack of a uniform definition  regarding the terms: competence, competency, and competencies (Cooper et al, 1998). Exactly what does it mean to be competent in a job, to have the appropriate competencies for the job?  The American Compensation Association defines competencies as "individual performance behaviours that are observable, measurable and critical to successful individual or corporate performance" (Cooper et al, 1998). When human resource  managers decide to implement a competency based model, they usually break down the different competencies into parts. They identify and subsequently assess the different component competencies needed to do each  job successful and effectively. When the human resource department knows exactly what competencies are really required for the companys business operations and for each job within that business, it provides  information that can be used for recruitment, promotion, training and developing an organizational culture. This is far different than knowing what competencies exist within the organization (Cooper et al, 1998).  Hendry and Maggio said that when competencies are linked to organizational goals, these elements emerge as outcomes of a comprehensive competency model: * Identification of  characteristics and behaviours that differentiate top performers from others in relation to their contribution to strategic objectives; * Clarification, communication, assessment, and development of characteristics that focus individuals on core