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Competence framework

A competence framework sets out the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to perform roles effectively. It supports recruitment, development and assessment by making expectations explicit. Criteria should relate to the work and be applied fairly; vague personality labels can produce inconsistent judgments.

Worked example

A finance-analyst framework specifies data checking, interpretation, clear communication and ethical handling of information. An assessment identifies a development need in presenting assumptions, which informs a learning plan.

Common mistake

Treating competence as technical knowledge alone or using a framework as a permanent label of someone’s potential.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA BT Direct September 2026–June 2027
ACCA SBL Supporting September 2026–June 2027
FIA FBT Direct September 2026–June 2027