Competency Database Design

There are many companies offering solutions for competency management. Your company may even have staff with the ability to create an in-house solution. Here are some questions that you should ask before deciding upon a software solution:

  • What are my basic requirements?
    • What does my organisation need to capture?
    • What does my organisation need to report on?
    • What does my auditor require?
    • What is my budget?
    • What regulatory requirements must we demonstrate compliance for?
    • What legislative requirements must we demonstrate compliance for?
  • Do we have competency frameworks and models defined?
    • Can these be mapped into a software solution?
    • Do we have the capability to create these in-house?
    • Are these agreed with Team Leaders and/or our subject matter experts?
  • What are my IT restrictions?
    • Do I need an online solution?
    • Do I need to utilize the company’s intranet?
    • Is a third-party software system compatible with my network?
  • Do I request development of an in-house solution?
    • If the developer leaves my company, can another person take control easily?
    • Do the development team understand my requirements fully?
    • If the system does not meet my requirements, can my data be moved to a new system from a third-party provider?
  • Do I purchase a third-party system?
    • Does the supplier truly understand competence and its implications?
    • Can I export data into other software programmes to communicate with others?
    • Can the third-party assist with any queries I have about my competency framework?
    • Can the third-party offer consultancy to help streamline my processes?
    • If the purchased system does not meet my requirements, can my data be moved to a new system from a different provider?
    • Where will my data be geographically located (e.g. are there any data privacy or GDPR considerations)?
  • Who will manage the system?
    • Does the system allow multiple managers?
    • Can managerial accounts be customised to restrict access to people/skills?
    • Can they challenge our current practices (e.g. enquire about best-practice, or better ways to achieve things)?
    • Are other people in my company happy and willing to take ownership?
    • What happens if our project sponsor leaves the organisation?