A generic proposal for competence mapping: a case study from information systems discipline

Abstract

The competence literature uses a set of terms whose definitions have a high degree of ambiguity and intersection. This situation causes difficulties when applying competence frameworks for describing the content of jobs and planning the evolution of competences, both at an individual and organizational level. This work focuses on the competence construct, reviewing related concepts and identifying relationships between them. The authors provide a structure for the competence construct, which integrates and articulates the concepts of knowledge, skill, ability, capacity, posture, disposition and behaviour. The structure support the proposal of a mechanism for mapping the internal competences of an organization. The mapping may assist the organization to compare its current set of competences with the desired competence blueprint. Underlying this mechanism is the assumption that individuals working in an organizational environment are the source of competences for the organization. The mechanism may also assist an individual to set a course for professional development. To illustrate the application of the mapping mechanism a scenario informed by an Information Systems and Technology framework is used.