json_source.json

{"Strategy and architecture":{"Strategy and planning":{"Strategic planning":{"code":"ITSP","description":"Creating and maintaining organisational-level strategies to align overall business plans, actions and resources with high-level business objectives.","levels":{"4":"Contributes to the collection and analysis of information to support strategy development. \r\nAssists in the preparation of reports and insights for strategic planning.\r\nSupports the communication of strategic plans and related change initiatives to relevant stakeholders. \r\nHelps monitor progress against strategic objectives and provides feedback.","5":"Collates information and creates reports and insights to support strategy management processes.\r\nEnsures all stakeholders are aware of the strategic management approach and timetables. Provides support and guidance to help stakeholders adhere to the approach.\r\nDevelops and communicates plans to drive forward the strategy and related change planning.\r\nContributes to the development of policies, standards and guidelines for strategy development and planning.","6":"Sets policies, standards and guidelines for how the organisation conducts strategy development and planning.\r\nLeads and manages the creation or review of a strategy that meets the requirements of the business. \r\nDevelops, communicates, implements and reviews the processes which embed strategic management in the operational management of the organisation.","7":"Leads the definition, implementation and communication of the organisation’s strategic management framework. \r\nDirects the creation and review of a strategy and plans to support the strategic requirements of the business."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ITSP"},"Information systems coordination":{"code":"ISCO","description":"Coordinating information and technology strategies where the adoption of a common approach would benefit the organisation.","levels":{"6":"Maintains awareness of the global needs of the organisation. \r\nPromotes the benefits that a common approach to technology deployment will bring to the entire organisation.\r\nCoordinates and collaborates with others on the promotion, acquisition, development and implementation of information systems and services.","7":"Establishes the organisation's strategy for managing information and communicates the policies, standards, procedures and methods necessary to implement the strategy. \r\nCoordinates all aspects of management of the lifecycle of information systems. \r\nRepresents the interests of the entire organisation to general management and external bodies on matters relating to information strategy."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ISCO"},"Information management":{"code":"IRMG","description":"Enabling the effective management and use of information assets.","levels":{"3":"Supports teams and individuals to identify and organise information assets and repositories in line with policy and practices.\r\nConducts routine searches for non-sensitive information needed to support organisational decision making.\r\nSupports users to find and access information resources based on their requirements and approved access.","4":"Enables the organisation to organise, control and discover information assets.\r\nSupports the organisation to identify, catalogue and categorise information types and information repositories in line with information management strategies and practices.\r\nEnables users to find information through appropriate use of metadata and search tools.\r\nProvides advice and guidance to enable good information management practices to be adopted across the organisation.","5":"Ensures implementation of information and records management policies and standard practice.  Communicates the benefits and value of information management. \r\nPlans effective information storage, sharing and publishing within the organisation. Develops organisational taxonomy for information assets. \r\nProvides expert advice and guidance to enable the organisation to get maximum value from its information assets. \r\nAssesses issues that might prevent the organisation from making maximum use of its information assets. Contributes to the development of policy, standards and procedures for compliance with relevant legislation.","6":"Leads and plans activities to communicate and implement information management strategies and policies.  \r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for information management. \r\nEnsures the information required to support the organisation is defined. Creates information management processes.  \r\nCoordinates internal and externally sourced information resources to meet specific business objectives.","7":"Establishes and communicates the organisation's information management strategy. \r\nSpecifies at a strategic level the information needed to support the business strategy and business functions.  \r\nDirects information resources to create value for stakeholders. \r\nAccountable for compliance with regulations, standards and codes of good practice relating to all aspects of information management."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/IRMG"},"Enterprise and business architecture":{"code":"STPL","description":"Aligning an organisation's technology strategy with its business mission, strategy and processes and documenting this using architectural models.","levels":{"5":"Develops models and plans to drive the execution of the business strategy, taking advantage of opportunities to improve business performance. \r\nContributes to creating and reviewing a systems capability strategy which meets the business's strategic requirements. \r\nCreates and maintains roadmaps to guide the execution of business strategy and capability improvements.\r\nDetermines requirements and specifies effective business processes, through improvements in technology, information or data practices, organisation, roles, procedures and equipment.","6":"Develops enterprise-wide architecture and processes to embed strategic change management within the organisation. \r\nLeads the creation and review of a systems capability strategy aligned with business requirements. Develops roadmaps for enterprise architecture and initiatives, ensuring stakeholder buy-in. \r\nCaptures and prioritises market and environmental trends, business strategies and objectives, identifying alternative strategies.  Develops business cases for approval, funding and prioritisation of high-level initiatives.\r\nSets strategies, policies, standards and practices to ensure compliance between business strategies, technology strategies and enterprise transformation activities.","7":"Directs the development of enterprise-wide architecture and processes to embed the strategic application of change in the management of the organisation. \r\nDirects the creation and review of an enterprise capability strategy to support the strategic requirements of the business. Oversees the creation and implementation of roadmaps to guide long-term enterprise transformation and strategic alignment.\r\nIdentifies the business benefits of alternative strategies.\r\nEnsures compliance between business strategies, enterprise transformation activities and technology directions, setting strategies, policies, standards and practices."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/STPL"},"Solution architecture":{"code":"ARCH","description":"Developing and communicating a multi-dimensional solution architecture to deliver agreed business outcomes.","levels":{"4":"Contributes to the development of solution architectures in specific business, infrastructure or functional areas. \r\nIdentifies and evaluates alternative architectures and the trade-offs in cost, performance and scalability. Determines and documents architecturally significant decisions. \r\nProduces specifications of cloud-based or on-premises components, tiers and interfaces, for translation into detailed designs using selected services and products. \r\nSupports projects or change initiatives through the preparation of technical plans and application of design principles. Aligns solutions with enterprise and solution architecture standards (including security).","5":"Leads the development of solution architectures in specific business, infrastructure or functional areas. \r\nLeads the preparation of technical plans and ensures appropriate technical resources are made available. Ensures appropriate tools and methods are available, understood and employed in architecture development.\r\nProvides technical guidance and governance on solution development and integration. Evaluates requests for changes and deviations from specifications and recommends actions.\r\nEnsures relevant technical strategies, policies, standards and practices (including security and cost management) are applied correctly.","6":"Leads the development of architectures for complex solutions ensuring consistency with agreed requirements. \r\nEstablishes policies, principles and practices for the selection of solution architecture components. \r\nManages trade-offs and balances functional, service quality, cost efficiency and systems management requirements within a significant area of the organisation. Communicates proposed decisions to stakeholders.\r\nCoordinates and manages the target architecture across multiple projects or initiatives.  Maintains a stable, viable architecture and ensures consistency of design and adherence to appropriate standards across multiple projects or initiatives."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ARCH"},"Innovation management":{"code":"INOV","description":"Identifying, prioritising, incubating and exploiting opportunities provided by information, communication and digital technologies.","levels":{"5":"Manages the innovation pipeline and executes innovation processes. \r\nDevelops and adapts innovation tools, processes and infrastructures to drive the process of innovation. Identifies resources and capabilities needed to support innovation. \r\nEncourages and motivates innovation communities, teams and individuals to share creative ideas and learn from failures. \r\nManages and facilitates the communication and open flow of creative ideas between interested parties and the set-up of innovation networks and communities.","6":"Obtains organisational commitment to innovation. \r\nDevelops organisational capabilities to drive innovation. \r\nLeads and plans the development of innovation capabilities and implementation of innovation processes, tools and frameworks. \r\nLeads the communication and an open flow of creative ideas between interested parties and the set-up of innovation networks and communities.","7":"Leads development of a culture that encourages innovation, risk-taking and collaboration. \r\nEmbeds innovation processes throughout business units and links strategy execution with innovation. \r\nAligns organisational and individual objectives, measures and rewards with innovation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/INOV"},"Emerging technology monitoring":{"code":"EMRG","description":"Identifying and assessing new and emerging technologies, products, services, methods and techniques.","levels":{"4":"Supports monitoring of the external environment and assessment of emerging technologies. \r\nContributes to the creation of reports, technology roadmapping and the sharing of knowledge and insights.","5":"Monitors the external environment to gather intelligence on emerging technologies. \r\nAssesses and documents the impacts, threats and opportunities to the organisation. \r\nCreates reports and technology roadmaps and shares knowledge and insights with others.","6":"Plans and leads the identification and assessment of emerging technologies and the evaluation of potential impacts, threats and opportunities.\r\nCreates technology roadmaps that align organisational plans with emerging technology solutions. Engages with, and influences, relevant stakeholders to obtain organisational commitment to technology roadmaps. \r\nDevelops organisational guidelines for monitoring emerging technologies. \r\nCollaborates with internal and external parties to facilitate intelligence gathering."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/EMRG"},"Formal research":{"code":"RSCH","description":"Systematically creating new knowledge by data gathering, innovation, experimentation, evaluation and dissemination.","levels":{"2":"Within given research goals, assists in selection and review of credible and reliable resources. \r\nSearches for relevant material using specialised websites and sources, reads relevant articles to update knowledge of the relevant field. \r\nReports on work carried out and may contribute sections of publication-quality material. \r\nCurates, under guidance, a personal collection of relevant material.","3":"Within given research goals, builds on and refines appropriate outline ideas for research, including evaluation, development, demonstration and implementation. \r\nApplies standard methods to collect and analyse quantitative and qualitative data. Creates research reports to communicate research methodology, findings and conclusions. \r\nContributes sections of publication-quality material. \r\nUses available resources to update knowledge of any relevant field and curates a personal collection of relevant material. Participates in research communities.","4":"Builds on and refines appropriate outline ideas for the evaluation, development, demonstration and implementation of research. \r\nContributes to research goals and funding proposals. Collects and analyses qualitative and quantitative data as required. \r\nContributes to research plans and identifies appropriate opportunities for publication and dissemination of research findings. Makes an active contribution to research communities.\r\nPresents papers at conferences, contributes significant sections of publication-quality material and presents reports to clients.","5":"Agrees research goals and methods and performs projects to generate original ideas. \r\nAttracts and manages external research funding. Maintains a strong external network within own area of specialism. \r\nProvides advice on performing research. Selects and adapts data collection tools and techniques.  Develops, reviews and constructively criticises the research and ideas of others. Shares demonstrations of research findings.\r\nTakes part in professional activities outside own employing organisation. Presents papers at significant conferences, writes articles for specialist journals and presents reports to key stakeholders.","6":"Develops the organisation's research policy and supervises the work of research functions. \r\nPromotes activities externally, attracts and manages significant portfolios of research funding. \r\nSets research goals and authorises research proposals. Leads strategic and/or interdisciplinary research projects. Maintains a strong external network reaching beyond own immediate area of specialism. \r\nTakes a leading part in professional activities outside own employing organisation. Presents keynote papers at major conferences, writes articles for high impact journals and presents reports to major clients."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/RSCH"},"Sustainability":{"code":"SUST","description":"Advising and leading sustainability initiatives to reduce environmental impact and ensure compliance with relevant standards and regulations.","levels":{"4":"Assesses and reports on how different tactical decisions affect sustainability. \r\nEvaluates factors and risks (political, legislative, technological, economic, social) that impact on operational processes and strategic direction.\r\nEvaluates and reports on the implementation of sustainability measures in specific areas.","5":"Provides expert advice and guidance on planning, designing and implementing sustainability solutions. \r\nEvaluates and selects sustainability methods, tools and practices to be used in line with agreed policies and standards. \r\nIdentifies and recommends improvements to the organisation's approach to sustainability.","6":"Develops and promotes organisational strategies, policies, standards and guidelines for sustainability. \r\nLeads the introduction and use of sustainability techniques, methodologies and tools."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SUST"}},"Financial and value management":{"Financial management":{"code":"FMIT","description":"Managing the effective use and control of financial resources to support business strategies, compliance and risk mitigation.","levels":{"4":"Monitors and maintains financial records to ensure compliance and audit requirements are met.\r\nProvides general support in financial planning and budgeting by compiling and reporting on financial data.\r\nSupports decision-making by collating and summarising financial information at a high level.\r\nCollaborates with business units to gather financial data and understand operational needs.","5":"Provides general advice and guidance on financial planning, budgeting and accounting using recognised practices and standards.\r\nDevelops high-level financial plans and forecasts to guide organisational strategies and plans.\r\nMonitors expenditure to ensure alignment with budgetary goals.\r\nContributes to financial control frameworks and supports strategic decision-making by summarising expenditure trends and variances.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for financial management to support strategic business goals.\r\nPromotes financial governance and drives adherence to financial policies and standards. Collaborates with senior leaders and business unit heads to ensure financial strategies support overall business objectives.\r\nOversees the setting and management of financial budgets and targets at a strategic level.\r\nLeads high-level reviews of financial performance and implements improvements to align budget usage with organisational priorities."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/FMIT"},"Investment appraisal":{"code":"INVA","description":"Assessing the attractiveness of possible investments or projects.","levels":{"4":"Develops and documents investment appraisals for a range of different projects. \r\nIdentifies suitable appraisal techniques based on the characteristics of a project. \r\nCollects the information required to create an investment appraisal in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders. Presents findings of investment appraisals to selected stakeholders. \r\nRefines and maintains investment appraisals.","5":"Advises on investment appraisal approaches and tailors organisational standards to the context of portfolios/programmes.  \r\nLeads investment appraisal activities for simple portfolios and programmes and complex projects.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for investment appraisals. \r\nLeads activities to establish consistent appraisal across the component projects and programmes within a portfolio. \r\nReviews investment appraisals for high-value initiatives to assure their quality. \r\nLeads investment appraisal activities for complex programmes of work and portfolios."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/INVA"},"Benefits management":{"code":"BENM","description":"Forecasting, planning and monitoring the emergence and effective realisation of anticipated benefits from projects and programmes.","levels":{"3":"Supports the identification and tracking of benefits for projects and programmes.  \r\nCollects data to measure benefits realisation.","4":"Contributes to the development and implementation of benefits management plans for projects and programmes. \r\nEngages with stakeholders to identify and quantify benefits and to establish metrics and mechanisms for tracking benefits realisation. \r\nMonitors and reports on progress towards benefits realisation. \r\nIdentifies risks and issues that may impact benefits delivery and escalates as appropriate. Supports the embedding of benefits management practices across the organisation.","5":"Leads activities required in the realisation of the benefits of each part of the change programme. \r\nIdentifies specific metrics and mechanisms to measure benefits and plans to activate these mechanisms at the required time. Monitors benefits against what was predicted in the business case. \r\nEnsures all participants are engaged throughout the change programme and fully prepared to exploit the new operational business environment. \r\nSupports operational managers to ensure all plans, work packages and deliverables are aligned with the expected benefits.","6":"Works with operational managers to ensure maximum improvements are made as groups of projects deliver their products into operational use. \r\nCommunicates the change programme vision to staff at all levels of the business and keeps a focus on business objectives. \r\nMaintains the business case for funding the programme and confirms continuing business viability of the programme at regular intervals."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/BENM"},"Budgeting and forecasting":{"code":"BUDF","description":"Developing and managing financial budgets and forecasts to enable effective decision-making and resource allocation.","levels":{"2":"Assists in gathering financial data and preparing basic budget templates under supervision. \r\nSupports the budgeting and forecasting process by completing assigned tasks.","3":"Performs specified tasks in the budgeting and forecasting process, including data analysis and report preparation, using standard methods. \r\nIdentifies and resolves routine budgeting and forecasting issues. \r\nCommunicates budget and forecast information to relevant stakeholders.","4":"Contributes to the development of budgets and forecasts for specific areas of responsibility.\r\nGathers and analyses financial data and prepares budget templates and reports.\r\nSupports stakeholder communication and collaboration in the budgeting and forecasting process.","5":"Leads the development of budgets and forecasts for a department or function.\r\nProvides authoritative advice and guidance on budgeting and forecasting practices. Selects and applies appropriate budgeting and forecasting methodologies and tools.\r\nIncorporates scenario planning, sensitivity analysis and risk assessment into the budgeting and forecasting process.\r\nCollaborates with stakeholders to align budgets and forecasts with organisational objectives and business metrics.","6":"Develops and implements budgeting and forecasting strategies, policies and processes aligned with overall organisational objectives and business metrics. \r\nDrives the adoption of good working practices across the organisation.\r\nOversees the development of complex financial models and scenario analyses to support strategic decision-making. Provides insights and recommendations to optimise investments and resource allocation.\r\nCollaborates with senior leaders to ensure budgets and forecasts support long-term organisational goals and drive value creation. Sets the vision and direction for budgeting and forecasting practices."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/BUDF"},"Financial analysis":{"code":"FIAN","description":"Conducting in-depth analysis of financial data to derive insights and support decision-making.","levels":{"2":"Assists in collecting and organising financial data and preparing basic reports under supervision. \r\nSupports the financial analysis process by completing assigned tasks and seeking guidance when needed.","3":"Applies established financial analysis techniques and processes to carry out specific tasks such as detailed data analysis, report generation and interpretation of financial metrics. \r\nContributes to the development of actionable insights for decision-making.\r\nCommunicates financial analysis findings to relevant stakeholders.","4":"Performs financial analysis for specific areas, using standard techniques and tools. \r\nPrepares reports and provides insights to support decision-making. Conducts cost-benefit analyses and supports stakeholder collaboration in the cost management process. \r\nCollaborates with stakeholders to understand requirements and deliver relevant analysis. \r\nSupports the development and maintenance of financial models.","5":"Leads financial analysis activities for a department or function, applying advanced techniques and tools. Develops and maintains complex financial models.\r\nConducts scenario planning and sensitivity analysis to support decision-making. Provides authoritative advice and guidance on recommended financial analysis practices.\r\nPresents findings and recommendations to senior stakeholders, linking financial performance to business outcomes. Collaborates with stakeholders to align analysis with organisational objectives.","6":"Defines and leads the organisation's approach to financial analysis, aligning it with strategic objectives and business value creation.\r\nDevelops and implements enterprise-wide financial analysis policies, standards and processes. Drives a culture of data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement in financial management.\r\nProvides strategic insights and recommendations based on comprehensive financial analysis, linking performance to business strategy."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/FIAN"},"Cost management":{"code":"COMG","description":"Planning, controlling and analysing costs to enable the effective use of financial resources.","levels":{"2":"Assists in gathering cost data and preparing basic cost reports under supervision. \r\nSupports the cost management process by completing assigned tasks and seeking guidance when needed.","3":"Applies standard cost management techniques and processes to monitor and report on costs within a specific area of responsibility.\r\nIdentifies and escalates cost variances and supports the implementation of cost-saving initiatives. Collaborates with stakeholders to gather cost data and provide reports.","4":"Develops and implements cost management processes and procedures for a department or function.\r\nMonitors actual performance against budget and identifies variances.\r\nAnalyses costs, identifies trends and recommends corrective actions.\r\nProvides guidance and advice on cost management techniques and tools.","5":"Leads the development and implementation of cost management strategies, policies and procedures for a significant area of the organisation.\r\nProvides authoritative advice and guidance on cost optimisation techniques and recognised good practices. Oversees the development of complex cost models and reporting frameworks.\r\nPresents cost management insights to senior stakeholders and facilitates data-driven decision-making. Promotes a culture of cost consciousness and continuous improvement.","6":"Defines and leads the organisation's overall approach to cost management, aligning it with strategic objectives and financial goals.\r\nDevelops and implements enterprise-wide cost management policies, standards and processes. Collaborates with senior leaders to identify and drive cost optimisation initiatives.\r\nProvides strategic insights and recommendations to optimise cost performance and drive long-term value creation. Sets the vision and direction for cost management across the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/COMG"},"Demand management":{"code":"DEMM","description":"Analysing and proactively managing business demand for new services or modifications to existing service features or volumes.","levels":{"4":"Performs demand management analysis and planning activities within a specific business or operational area. \r\nMonitors patterns of demand and identifies insights and proposals to improve business value. \r\nIdentifies and assesses opportunities to prioritise or improve alignment between business demand and capacity to deliver. \r\nEngages stakeholders to communicate insights, plans and decisions regarding business demand.","5":"Implements demand management analysis and  planning activities. \r\nProvides advice to help stakeholders adopt and adhere to the agreed demand management approach. Manages the process of integrating demand management  with complementary strategic, operational and change management processes. \r\nMaintains a register of business requests and routes requests to the right place. Reports on the status of each request.\r\nReviews new business proposals and provides advice on demand issues. Works with business representatives to agree and implement short-term and medium-term modifications to demand.","6":"Defines the approach and sets policies for discovering, analysing, planning, controlling and documenting demand for services and products. \r\nOrganises scoping and business priority setting for strategic business changes involving business policymakers and direction setters. \r\nEngages with and influences senior stakeholders to improve the business value delivered from new or existing services and products. \r\nLeads the development of demand management capabilities. Leads the integration of demand management with complementary strategic, operational and change management processes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DEMM"},"Measurement":{"code":"MEAS","description":"Developing and operating a measurement capability to support agreed organisational information needs.","levels":{"2":"Assists in the collection and maintenance of data for measurement purposes under routine supervision.\r\nUses standard procedures for measuring attributes of processes, products and services. \r\nHelps generate and distribute measurement reports.","3":"Applies standard techniques to support the specification of measures and the collection and maintenance of data for measurement. \r\nGenerates, produces and distributes reports. \r\nUses measurement tools for routine analysis of data. \r\nIdentifies and implements improvements to data collection methods.","4":"Identifies and prioritises appropriate measures, scales and targets. \r\nSupports projects, functions or teams in the development of measurement methods. \r\nSpecifies base and derived measures which support agreed information needs. Specifies how to collect and store the data for each required measure. Provides guidance on collection of data. \r\nDesigns reports and reporting formats.","5":"Establishes measurement objectives and the scope of measurement for functions, teams and projects. \r\nPlans and implements improvements to measurement capability. Provides advice and guidance for effective use of measures and measurement.  \r\nSelects measures appropriate to the context and organisational objectives. Reviews data collection and storage mechanisms to support measurement.\r\nContributes to organisational policies, standards and guidelines for measurement.","6":"Leads the development of organisational capabilities for measurement (including automation). \r\nCreates the measurement framework and aligns measurement objectives with business objectives. \r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for measurement. \r\nProvides resources to ensure adoption and adherence to policies and standards."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/MEAS"}},"Security and privacy":{"Information security":{"code":"SCTY","description":"Defining and operating a framework of security controls and security management strategies.","levels":{"2":"Assists with implementing and monitoring security policies and protocols across different systems.\r\nContributes to identifying and addressing potential risks in security governance and compliance.\r\nSupports the analysis of documented security incidents, escalating where appropriate.\r\nAssists in the review of access controls and permissions, ensuring adherence to security policies.","3":"Applies and maintains specific security controls as required by organisational policy and local risk assessments.\r\nCommunicates security risks and issues to business managers and others. Performs basic risk assessments for small information systems. \r\nContributes to the identification of risks that arise from potential technical solution architectures. Suggests alternate solutions or countermeasures to mitigate risks. Defines secure systems configurations in compliance with intended architectures.\r\nSupports investigation of suspected attacks and security breaches.","4":"Provides guidance on the application and operation of elementary physical, procedural and technical security controls. \r\nExplains the purpose of security controls and performs security risk and business impact analysis for medium complexity information systems. \r\nIdentifies risks that arise from potential technical solution architectures. Designs alternate solutions or countermeasures and ensures they manage identified risks. \r\nInvestigates suspected attacks and supports security incident management.","5":"Provides advice and guidance on security strategies to manage identified risks and ensure adoption and adherence to standards. \r\nContributes to development of information security policy, standards and guidelines. \r\nObtains and acts on vulnerability information and conducts security risk assessments, business impact analysis and accreditation on complex information systems. Investigates major breaches of security and recommends appropriate control improvements. \r\nDevelops new architectures that manage the risks posed by new technologies and business practices.","6":"Develops and communicates corporate information security policy, standards and guidelines.  \r\nEnsures architectural principles are applied during design to reduce risk. Drives adoption and adherence to policy, standards and guidelines. \r\nContributes to the development of organisational strategies that address information control requirements. Identifies and monitors environmental and market trends and proactively assesses impact on business strategies, benefits and risks. \r\nLeads the provision of authoritative advice and guidance on the requirements for security controls in collaboration with subject matter experts.","7":"Directs the development, implementation, delivery and support of an enterprise information security strategy aligned with the business strategy. \r\nEnsures compliance between business strategies and information security. \r\nLeads the provision of information security expertise, guidance and systems needed to execute strategic and operational plans.\r\nSecures organisational resources to execute the information security strategy."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SCTY"},"Information assurance":{"code":"INAS","description":"Protecting against and managing risks related to the use, storage and transmission of data and information systems.","levels":{"2":"Assists with information assurance activities under routine supervision.\r\nHelps perform basic risk assessments and supports the implementation of information assurance measures.\r\nAssists in maintaining records and documentation related to information assurance.","3":"Follows standard approaches for the technical assessment of information systems against information assurance policies and business objectives. \r\nMakes routine accreditation decisions. Recognises decisions that are beyond their scope and responsibility level and escalates according.\r\nReviews and performs risk assessments and risk treatment plans. Identifies typical risk indicators and explains prevention measures.\r\nMaintains integrity of records to support and justify decisions.","4":"Performs technical assessments and/or accreditation of complex or higher-risk information systems. \r\nIdentifies risk mitigation measures required in addition to the standard organisation or domain measures. \r\nEstablishes the requirement for accreditation evidence from delivery partners and communicates accreditation requirements to stakeholders.  \r\nContributes to planning and organisation of information assurance and accreditation activities. Contributes to development of and implementation of information assurance processes.","5":"Interprets information assurance and security policies and applies these to manage risks. \r\nProvides advice and guidance to ensure adoption of and adherence to information assurance architectures, strategies, policies, standards and guidelines. \r\nPlans, organises and conducts information assurance and accreditation of complex domains areas, cross-functional areas and across the supply chain. \r\nContributes to the development of policies, standards and guidelines.","6":"Develops information assurance policy, standards and guidelines. \r\nContributes to the development of organisational strategies that address the evolving business risk and information control requirements. \r\nDrives adoption of and adherence to policies and standards. Ensures architectural principles are followed, requirements are defined and rigorous security testing is applied. Ensures accreditation processes support and enable organisational objectives.\r\nMonitors environmental and market trends and assesses any impact on organisational strategies, benefits and risks.","7":"Directs the creation and review of an enterprise information assurance strategy to support the strategic requirements of the business.\r\nEnsures compliance between business strategies and information assurance by setting strategies, policies, standards and practices. \r\nLeads the provision of information assurance expertise, advice and guidance across all of the organisation's information and information systems."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/INAS"},"Information and data compliance":{"code":"PEDP","description":"Implementing and promoting compliance with information and data management legislation.","levels":{"4":"Supports the implementation of policy, standards and guidelines related to information and data legislation and compliance requirements.\r\nMonitors the implementation of effective controls for internal delegation, audit and control relating to information management.\r\nReports on the consolidated status of information controls to inform effective decision-making.\r\nIdentifies risks around the use of information  and data that is subject to specific legislation. Recommends remediation actions as required.","5":"Contributes to policies, standards and guidelines for information and data compliance. \r\nProvides authoritative advice on implementing compliance controls in products, services and systems. \r\nInvestigates breaches and recommends control improvements.  Maintains an inventory of legislated data, conducts risk assessments and specifies necessary changes. \r\nEnsures formal requests and complaints are handled following procedures. Prepares and submits reports to relevant authorities, ensuring all compliance requirements are met.","6":"Develops strategies for compliance with information and data legislation. \r\nEnsures that the policy and standards for compliance with information and data legislation are fit for purpose, current and correctly implemented. \r\nActs as the organisation's contact for the regulatory authorities. \r\nOperates as a focus for information and data legislation for the organisation, working with specialists to provide authoritative advice and guidance."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PEDP"},"Vulnerability research":{"code":"VURE","description":"Conducting applied research to discover, evaluate and mitigate new or unknown security vulnerabilities and weaknesses.","levels":{"2":"Assists with vulnerability research tasks under routine supervision.\r\nHelps document and report findings from vulnerability research activities.","3":"Applies standard techniques and tools for vulnerability research. \r\nUses available resources to update knowledge of relevant specialism. \r\nParticipates in research communities. \r\nAnalyses and reports on activities and results.","4":"Designs and executes complex vulnerability research activities. \r\nSpecifies requirements for environment, data, resources and tools to perform assessments. \r\nReviews test results and modifies tests if necessary. Creates reports to communicate methodology, findings and conclusions. Advises on deception methods by exploiting identified patterns. \r\nMakes an active contribution to research communities.","5":"Plans and manages vulnerability research activities. \r\nMaintains a strong external network for vulnerability research. Gathers information on new and emerging threats and vulnerabilities. \r\nAssesses and documents the impacts and threats to the organisation. Creates reports and shares knowledge and insights with stakeholders. \r\nProvides expert advice and guidance to support the adoption of tools and techniques for vulnerability research. Contributes to the development of organisational policies, standards and guidelines for vulnerability research and assessment.","6":"Plans and leads the organisation’s approach to vulnerability research.\r\nIdentifies new and emerging threats and vulnerabilities. Maintains a strong external network. Takes a leading part in external-facing professional activities to facilitate information gathering and set the scope of research work. \r\nEngages with and influences relevant stakeholders to communicate results of research and the required response. \r\nDevelops organisational policies and guidelines for monitoring emerging threats and vulnerabilities."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/VURE"},"Threat intelligence":{"code":"THIN","description":"Developing and sharing actionable insights on current and potential security threats to the success or integrity of an organisation.","levels":{"2":"Contributes to routine threat intelligence gathering tasks. \r\nMonitors and detects potential security threats and escalates in accordance with relevant procedures and standards.","3":"Performs routine threat intelligence gathering tasks. \r\nTransforms collected information into a data format that can be used for operational security activities.\r\nCleans and converts quantitative information into consistent formats.","4":"Collates and analyses information for threat intelligence requirements from a variety of sources.\r\nContributes to reviewing, ranking and categorising qualitative threat intelligence information. \r\nCreates threat intelligence reports. \r\nEvaluates the value, usefulness and impact of threat intelligence sources.","5":"Plans and manages threat intelligence activities. \r\nIdentifies the most impactful threat categories and types of information that can help defend against them. Reviews, ranks and categorises qualitative threat intelligence information.\r\nProvides expert advice on threat intelligence activities. \r\nLeads the production and editing of threat intelligence reports that enhance the intelligence production workflow. Distributes information and obtains feedback about the value, usefulness and impact of the data.","6":"Sets direction, plans and leads the organisation’s approach to threat intelligence, including the use of suppliers.\r\nIdentifies requirements for threat intelligence based on the assets to be protected and the types of intelligence that can help protect those assets. \r\nEngages with and influences relevant stakeholders to communicate results of research and the required response. \r\nEnsures quality and accuracy of threat intelligence information. Reviews threat intelligence capabilities."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/THIN"}},"Governance, risk and compliance":{"Governance":{"code":"GOVN","description":"Defining and operating frameworks for decision-making, risk management, stakeholder relationships and compliance with organisational and regulatory obligations.","levels":{"6":"Implements the governance framework to enable governance activity to be conducted. \r\nWithin a defined area of accountability, determines the requirements for appropriate governance reflecting the organisation's values, ethics, risk appetite and wider governance frameworks. Communicates delegated authority, benefits, opportunities, costs and risks. \r\nLeads reviews of governance practices with appropriate and sufficient independence from management activity. \r\nActs as the organisation's contact for relevant regulatory authorities and ensures proper relationships between the organisation and external stakeholders.","7":"Directs the definition, implementation and monitoring of the governance framework to meet organisational obligations under regulation, law, or contracts. \r\nProvides leadership, direction and oversight for governance activities.  Integrates risk management into frameworks, aligning with strategic objectives and risk appetite.\r\nSecures resources required to execute activities to achieve the organisation’s governance goals with effective transparency. \r\nProvides assurance to stakeholders that the organisation can deliver its obligations with an agreed balance of benefits, opportunities, costs and risks."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/GOVN"},"Risk management":{"code":"BURM","description":"Planning and implementing processes for managing risk across the enterprise, aligned with organisational strategy and governance frameworks.","levels":{"2":"Assists in collecting and reporting data to support risk management activities under routine supervision. \r\nHelps create and maintain documentation of risks and risk management activities. \r\nHelps identify and report issues and discrepancies.","3":"Undertakes basic risk management activities. \r\nMaintains documentation of risks, threats, vulnerabilities and mitigation actions.","4":"Carries out risk management activities within a specific function, technical area or project of medium complexity. \r\nIdentifies risks and vulnerabilities, assesses their impact and probability, develops mitigation strategies and reports to the business. \r\nInvolves specialists and domain experts as necessary.","5":"Plans and implements complex and substantial risk management activities within a specific function, technical area, project or programme. \r\nEstablishes consistent risk management processes and reporting mechanisms aligned with governance frameworks.\r\nEngages specialists and domain experts as necessary. \r\nAdvises on the organisation's approach to risk management.","6":"Plans and manages the implementation of organisation-wide risk management processes, integrating tools and techniques aligned with governance frameworks.\r\nConsiders organisation-wide risk and mitigation activities within the context of business risk as a whole and the organisation’s appetite for risk.\r\nProvides leadership on risk management, ensuring practices support strategic decision-making and compliance with organisational policies.","7":"Establishes the organisation's risk management strategy, defining and communicating the risk appetite in alignment with governance and strategic objectives.\r\nDefines and communicates the organisation's appetite for risk. \r\nProvides resources to implement the organisation's risk strategy. \r\nDelegates authority for detailed planning and execution of risk management activities across the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/BURM"},"Artificial intelligence (AI) and data ethics":{"code":"AIDE","description":"Implementing and promoting ethical practices in the design, development, deployment and use of AI and data technologies.","levels":{"3":"Supports ethical reviews and conducts basic impact assessments under direction. \r\nGathers and analyses information for assessments. Reports on ethical issues and compliance with guidance from others. Documents findings from audits and reviews. \r\nAssists with documentation and communication of ethical policies.  \r\nSupports others in responding to incidents.","4":"Engages stakeholders to communicate ethical considerations and influence design decisions. \r\nConducts detailed impact assessments and makes recommendations. Manages ethical reviews to ensure compliance with standards. \r\nEvaluates risks and proposes measures to address ethical concerns. Leads discussions with stakeholders on ethical issues. \r\nDesigns and executes ethical impact assessments. Prepares reports based on audit findings.","5":"Provides expert advice to integrate ethics into AI and data projects and programmes. \r\nOversees governance and assurance activities. Reviews and approves impact assessments and audits. \r\nPromotes awareness of ethical principles and their application across the organisation. \r\nContributes to the development of policy, standards and guidelines related to AI and data ethics.","6":"Sets direction for ethics in AI and data initiatives. Defines governance processes to ensure compliance with ethical standards. \r\nEngages with industry bodies and experts to develop and drive industry recommended practices. \r\nDevelops and implements strategic ethical frameworks. Leads high-level reviews and decision-making processes. \r\nAllocates resources to support the organisation’s commitment to ethical practices. Ensures the organisation has resources and skills for ethical assurance."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/AIDE"},"Audit":{"code":"AUDT","description":"Delivering independent, risk-based assessments of the effectiveness of processes, the controls and the compliance environment of an organisation.","levels":{"2":"Assists in collecting evidence and conducting audit activities under routine supervision. \r\nMaintains documentation and audit trails. \r\nHelps identify and report issues and discrepancies.","3":"Adopts a structured approach to executing and documenting audit fieldwork, following agreed standards. \r\nMaintains integrity of records to support and satisfy audit trails.\r\nIdentifies typical risk indicators and explains prevention measures.","4":"Contributes to planning and executing of risk-based audit of existing and planned processes, products, systems and services.\r\nIdentifies and documents risks in detail.\r\nIdentifies the root cause of issues during an audit and communicates these effectively as risk insights.\r\nCollates evidence regarding the interpretation and implementation of control measures. Prepares and communicates reports to stakeholders, providing a factual basis for findings.","5":"Plans, organises and conducts audits of complex domains areas, cross-functional areas and across the supply chain.\r\nConfirms the scope and objectives of specific audit activities with management. Aligns with the scope of the audit programme and organisational policies.\r\nDetermines appropriate methods of investigation to achieve the audit objectives. Presents audit findings to management describing the effectiveness and efficiency of control mechanisms.\r\nProvides general and specific audit advice. Collaborates with professionals in related specialisms to develop and integrate findings.","6":"Leads and manages complex audits and programmes of audit activity.\r\nObtains and manages appropriate specialist expertise to contribute highly specialised technical knowledge and experience.\r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for the conduct of audits. Ensures the objectivity and impartiality of the audit process.\r\nIdentifies areas of risk and specifies audit programmes. Ensures audit coverage is sufficient to provide the business with assurance of adequacy and integrity. Authorises the issue of formal reports to management on the effectiveness and efficiency of control mechanisms.","7":"Directs the definition and implementation of the organisation's audit function, and oversees its communication to stakeholders.\r\nDefines audit strategy, plans audit cycles and ensures appropriate coverage across the organisation. Ensures the audit function adds value. Liaises with stakeholders to ensure audit coverage is relevant and understood.\r\nDirects use of risk analysis to identify areas for review. Ensures appropriate resources are available to deliver organisational requirements for audits.\r\nReports to the most senior level on findings, relevance and recommendations for improvement of audit activity."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/AUDT"},"Quality management":{"code":"QUMG","description":"Defining and operating a management framework of processes and working practices to deliver the organisation's quality objectives.","levels":{"2":"Assists with quality management tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the development, maintenance and distribution of quality standards.\r\nHelps document and track updates to quality management processes and standards.","3":"Uses appropriate methods and a systematic approach to developing, maintaining, controlling and distributing quality and environmental standards. \r\nMakes technical changes to and controls the updates and distribution of quality standards. \r\nDistributes new and revised standards.","4":"Assists in the development of new or improved practices and organisational processes or standards. \r\nAssists projects, functions or teams in planning the quality management for their area of responsibility. \r\nFacilitates localised improvements to the quality system or services.","5":"Ensures projects, teams and functions have appropriate practices in place and are meeting required organisational quality levels. \r\nAdvises on the application of appropriate quality management techniques and standards. \r\nDetermines areas where existing processes should change after analysing audit findings. Facilitates improvements to processes by changing approaches and working practices, typically using recognised models. \r\nTakes responsibility for controlling updating and distributing organisational standards.","6":"Achieves and maintains compliance against national and international standards, as appropriate. \r\nPrioritises areas for quality improvement by considering strategy, business objectives and results from internal and external audits. Initiates the application of appropriate quality management techniques in these areas. \r\nInitiates improvements to processes by changing approaches and working practices, typically using recognised models. \r\nIdentifies and plans systematic corrective action to reduce errors and improve the quality of the systems and services.","7":"Determines the quality strategy and secures commitment from executive leadership. \r\nDevelops policies for approval and adoption by organisational management. Ensures adequate technology, procedures and resources are in place to support the quality system. \r\nPlans and monitors the performance of the quality management system and the internal quality audit schedule. \r\nDetermines the extent to which quality policies and quality systems meet organisational needs and reviews as necessary."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/QUMG"},"Quality assurance":{"code":"QUAS","description":"Assuring, through ongoing and periodic assessments and reviews, that the organisation’s quality objectives are being met.","levels":{"2":"Assists with quality assurance tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the collection of data and evidence related to quality assurance. \r\nAssists in reviewing records to ensure compliance with quality standards.\r\nHelps identify and report quality issues and discrepancies.","3":"Contributes to the collection of evidence and the conduct of formal audits or reviews of activities.\r\nExamines records for evidence that appropriate testing and other quality control activities have taken place. \r\nDetermines compliance with organisational directives, standards and procedures and identifies non-compliances, non-conformances and abnormal occurrences.","4":"Plans, organises and conducts assessment activity and determines whether appropriate quality control has been applied.\r\nConducts formal assessments or reviews for given domain areas, suppliers or parts of the supply chain. Collates, collects and examines records, analyses the evidence and drafts all or part of formal compliance reports.\r\nDetermines the risks associated with findings and non-compliance and proposes corrective actions.\r\nProvides advice and guidance in the use of organisational standards.","5":"Plans, organises and conducts formal reviews and assessments of complex domains areas, cross-functional areas and across the supply chain.\r\nEvaluates, appraises and identifies non-compliances with organisational standards and determines the underlying reasons for non-compliance.\r\nPrepares and reports on assessment findings and associated risks. Ensures appropriate owners for corrective actions are identified. Identifies opportunities to improve organisational control mechanisms.\r\nOversees the assurance activities of others, providing advice and expertise to support assurance activity.","6":"Leads, develops and is accountable for an organisational approach and commitment to quality assurance.\r\nEnsures quality assurance processes and activities are robust and reliable, and appropriately tailored to the organisation’s quality objectives. Plans and resources the organisational quality assurance activities, using internal or third-party resources.\r\nConsiders the implications of emerging technology, approaches, trends, regulations and legislation.\r\nMonitors and reports on quality assurance activities, levels of compliance and improvement opportunities."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/QUAS"}},"Advice and guidance":{"Consultancy":{"code":"CNSL","description":"Providing advice and recommendations, based on expertise and experience, to address client needs.","levels":{"4":"Takes responsibility for specific elements of a consulting engagement within a defined scope.\r\nCollaborates with clients as part of formal or informal consultancy engagements. Understands client requirements by collecting data and delivering analysis. \r\nEnsures proposed solutions are correctly understood and effectively applied.\r\nSupports the broader consultancy engagement by contributing insights and assisting with problem-solving, always within the established boundaries of responsibility.","5":"Takes full responsibility for understanding client requirements including data collection, analysis and resolving issues.\r\nManages the scope and delivery of consultancy engagements to meet agreed objectives. Identifies, evaluates and recommends options. \r\nCollaborates with, and facilitates, stakeholder groups, as part of formal or informal consultancy agreements. Seeks to fully address client needs and implements solutions if required. \r\nEnhances the capabilities and effectiveness of clients by ensuring proposed solutions are fully understood and appropriately exploited.","6":"Leads and manages the provision of consultancy services and/or a team of consultants. \r\nProvides expert advice and guidance in own areas of expertise to both consultants and clients.\r\nEngages with clients at a strategic level, establishing consultancy agreements or contracts and maintaining long-term relationships. Manages the completion of engagements, ensuring strategic alignment with client needs and overseeing the transition from consultancy delivery to operational adoption. \r\nOversees the development and delivery of consultancy services within the agreed strategic framework.","7":"Directs the strategic direction and operations of a significant consultancy practice. \r\nEngages with key stakeholders at the highest levels to ensure consultancy services drive strategic outcomes. \r\nManages overall client relationships and the development of long-term consultancy partnerships, maintaining high standards of service delivery and ethical practice.\r\nOversees practice development, proposals, sales, account management and the delivery of consultancy services across diverse topics."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/CNSL"},"Specialist advice":{"code":"TECH","description":"Providing authoritative, professional advice and direction in a specialist area.","levels":{"4":"Provides detailed and specific advice to support the organisation's planning and operations, typically related to the immediate area of responsibility.\r\nActively maintains recognised expert level knowledge in one or more identifiable specialisms. \r\nRecognises and identifies the boundaries of their own specialist knowledge. \r\nWhere appropriate, collaborates with other specialists to ensure advice given is professionally sound and appropriate to the organisation's needs.","5":"Provides professional advice that informs operational leadership and influences the translation of strategy into operations in their specialist area.\r\nOversees the provision of specialist advice by others. Consolidates expertise from multiple sources, including third-party experts, to provide coherent and professionally sound advice to further organisational objectives.\r\nSupports and promotes the development and sharing of specialist knowledge within the organisation.","6":"Leads and promotes the development and application of specialist knowledge across the organisation, delivering professional advice that shapes direction and high-level decisions.\r\nMaintains a network of recognised experts (inside and/or outside the organisation) who can deliver expert advice in relevant areas. \r\nActively influences professional development planning across a significant part of the organisation to further the development of appropriate expertise and provision of high-quality professional advice."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/TECH"},"Methods and tools":{"code":"METL","description":"Leads the adoption, management and optimisation of methods and tools, ensuring effective use and alignment with organisational objectives.","levels":{"2":"Provide routine support using agreed guidelines on the use of well-established methods and tools. \r\nAssists in configuring and maintaining methods and tools under routine supervision. \r\nSupports the creation and updating of documentation related to methods and tools.","3":"Provides support on the use of existing methods and tools. \r\nConfigures and maintains methods and tools within a known context. \r\nCreates and updates the documentation of methods and tools.\r\nIdentifies and resolves basic issues related to tool usage.","4":"Engages with stakeholders to understand requirements and recommends appropriate solutions. \r\nProvides advice and guidance to support the adoption of methods and tools and adherence to policies and standards. \r\nTailors processes to meet specific needs while ensuring they align with established standards and are informed by evaluations of methods and tools.\r\nReviews and improves usage and application of methods and tools.","5":"Provides authoritative advice and leadership to promote adoption of methods and tools and adherence to policies and standards. \r\nEvaluates and selects appropriate methods and tools in line with agreed policies and standards. Contributes to organisational policies, standards and guidelines for methods and tools.\r\nImplements methods and tools at programme, project and team levels including selection and tailoring in line with agreed standards. \r\nManages reviews of the benefits and value of methods and tools. Identifies and recommends improvements that support broader organisational goals.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for methods and tools. \r\nSets direction and leads in the introduction and use of techniques, methodologies and tools, to meet business requirements. \r\nLeads the development of organisational capabilities for methods and tools to ensure consistent adoption and adherence to policies and standards.\r\nSecures organisational commitment and resources to methods and tools. Drives continuous improvement and innovation in methods and tools."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/METL"}}},"Change and transformation":{"Change implementation":{"Portfolio management":{"code":"POMG","description":"Developing and applying a management framework to define and deliver a portfolio of programmes, projects and/or ongoing services.","levels":{"5":"Ensures programme/project leads and/or service owners adhere to the agreed portfolio management and governance frameworks.\r\nExplains what information is needed and ensures they provide this information to agreed targets of timelines and accuracy. \r\nProduces reports as appropriate for portfolio governance, including making recommendations for changes to the portfolio.","6":"Engages and influences senior managers to ensure the portfolio will deliver the agreed business objectives. \r\nLeads the definition, planning, scheduling and monitoring of portfolio activities, ensuring alignment with governance standards. \r\nEnsures each portfolio component contributes to the overall objectives. Identifies and addresses portfolio-related issues, recommending and monitoring corrective actions. \r\nCollects and summarises portfolio measures, reporting on status and ensuring compliance with governance frameworks.","7":"Authorises the structure of portfolios and aligns the portfolio with strategies, objectives, governance frameworks and emerging opportunities. \r\nLeads the definition, implementation and review of the organisation’s portfolio management framework.  Sets parameters for the prioritisation of resources and the changes to be implemented. \r\nRecommends and implements corrective action by engaging and influencing senior management. \r\nLeads the on-going monitoring and review of portfolios for impact on current business activities and the strategic benefits to be realised. Implements portfolio governance arrangements and effective reporting."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/POMG"},"Programme management":{"code":"PGMG","description":"Identifying, planning and coordinating a set of related projects and activities in support of specific business strategies and objectives.","levels":{"6":"Plans, directs and co-ordinates activities to manage and implement a programme from initiation to final transition into operational, business-as-usual management. \r\nPlans, schedules, monitors and reports on programme-related activities. Establishes and maintains appropriate and effective governance and risk management frameworks. \r\nEnsures comprehensive reporting and communication policies are in place and followed. Maintains an awareness of current technical developments that may provide opportunities to the programmes. \r\nEnsures programmes are managed to realise agreed business benefits within agreed timescales.","7":"Sets organisational strategy governing programme management, including the application of appropriate methodologies. \r\nPlans, directs and co-ordinates activities to manage and implement complex programmes from initiation to full integration with operational, business-as-usual management. Aligns programme objectives with business goals and authorises related projects and activities. \r\nPlans, schedules, monitors and reports on programme activities, supported by comprehensive reporting and communication strategies.\r\nEnsures governance and risk management frameworks are in place to support strategic decision-making and programme execution."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PGMG"},"Project management":{"code":"PRMG","description":"Delivering agreed project outcomes by aligning appropriate management techniques, collaboration, leadership and governance to specific project and organisational contexts.","levels":{"4":"Defines, documents and executes small projects or sub-projects. \r\nWorks independently or with a small team, actively participating in all project phases. Applies appropriate project management methods and tools. Identifies, assesses and manages risks effectively.  \r\nPrepares realistic project plans ((including scope, schedule, quality, risk and communication plans), ensuring stakeholder involvement and alignment with organisational governance standards. \r\nTracks activities against the project schedule, managing stakeholder involvement as appropriate. Monitors costs, times, quality and resources used. Takes action where these exceed agreed tolerances.","5":"Takes full responsibility for the definition, approach, facilitation and satisfactory completion of medium-scale projects. \r\nProvides effective leadership to the project team, adopting suitable project management methods and tools. Manages change control processes and assesses risks, ensuring projects align with governance frameworks and business priorities.\r\nCommunicates regularly with stakeholders, ensuring project deliverables meet agreed standards, budgets and timelines. Ensures project and product quality reviews occur on schedule and according to procedure. \r\nProactively monitors performance metrics, implementing preventive and corrective actions as needed.","6":"Takes full responsibility for the definition, documentation and successful completion of complex projects. \r\nAdopts and adapts project management methods and tools suited to the project's needs. Ensures effective monitoring and control of resources, budgets and timelines. \r\nIntegrates robust risk management within governance frameworks to align decisions with the organisation’s risk appetite and standards. \r\nManages expectations of key stakeholders, ensuring all activities align with organisational goals, deliver agreed outcomes and provide business value.","7":"Sets organisational strategy governing the direction and conduct of project management, ensuring projects align with strategic objectives and governance frameworks. \r\nAuthorises the management of large-scale projects.  Leads project planning, scheduling, controlling and reporting activities for strategic, high impact, high risk projects. \r\nOversees the selection and application of project methodologies. Directs the approach to risk management for projects, ensuring risks and issues are managed in line with organisational policies. \r\nEnsures projects deliver their intended benefits and contribute to long-term goals."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PRMG"},"Portfolio, programme and project support":{"code":"PROF","description":"Providing support and guidance on portfolio, programme and project management processes, procedures, tools and techniques.","levels":{"2":"Assists with the compilation of reports for projects, programmes, or portfolios. \r\nMaintains programme and project files from supplied actual and forecast data.\r\nWorks under supervision to support the administrative needs of project teams, contributing to routine project activities.","3":"Provides foundational support for projects, programmes, or portfolios. \r\nAssists with planning, scheduling, tracking and reporting using established tools and processes. Follows recommended solutions to ensure accurate documentation and communication of project progress. \r\nCollaborates closely with project teams and stakeholders, gathering updates and information to maintain project records and ensure alignment with project objectives.\r\nParticipates in project boards, assurance teams and quality review meetings when necessary.","4":"Supports programme or project control boards, project assurance teams and quality review meetings.\r\nTakes responsibility for the provision of support services to projects. Uses project control solutions for planning, scheduling and tracking. Sets up and provides guidance on project management software, procedures, processes, tools and techniques.\r\nProvides basic guidance on project proposals. May provide views across projects on topics such as risk, quality, finance, or configuration management.\r\nWorks closely with project boards and review meetings, contributing actively to discussions and decisions.","5":"Takes responsibility for the provision of portfolio, programme and project support. \r\nAdvises on the available standards, procedures, methods, tools and techniques. \r\nEvaluates project and/or programme performance and recommends changes where necessary. \r\nContributes to reviews and audits of project and programme management to ensure conformance to standards.","6":"Leads implementation and delivery of portfolio, programme and project office services. \r\nDefines the approach/policy and sets standards for the support provided for managing and monitoring portfolios, programmes, and projects. \r\nManages resources to ensure delivery of effective services/resources in line with current and planned demand. \r\nReviews and improves the delivery portfolio, programme and project office services."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PROF"},"Delivery management":{"code":"DEMG","description":"Ensuring successful delivery of new or updated products and services through effective leadership and collaboration within defined delivery cycles.","levels":{"3":"Manages the routine delivery of small products or services, or specific parts of a larger product or service.\r\nFollows delivery methodologies, tools, and quality processes. Monitors the team’s adherence to these practices.\r\nCoordinates team planning processes based on the established priorities of work items. Tracks and reports on delivery progress, risks and issues.\r\nSupports a collaborative and productive working environment, demonstrating appropriate behaviours. Contributes to continuous improvement of delivery processes within the team.","4":"Manages the delivery of products or services for small to medium-sized initiatives.\r\nApplies appropriate delivery methodologies and tools. Establishes and leads delivery teams, creating a collaborative and productive working environment.\r\nManages the prioritisation of work items, leads iteration planning processes and ensures value is delivered incrementally throughout the delivery cycle. Communicates delivery progress, risks and issues to stakeholders.\r\nEnsures the quality of deliverables. Participates in reviews and contributes to the continuous improvement of delivery processes within the scope of the team or initiative.","5":"Leads delivery of products or services for large or complex initiatives.\r\nAdapts delivery approaches based on the context and complexity of the initiative. Provides leadership and guidance to multiple delivery teams. Collaborates with stakeholders to align delivery objectives with business goals. Proactively manages risks, dependencies and changes that may impact delivery.\r\nEnsures optimal allocation of resources and skills across teams. Monitors key delivery metrics, ensuring transparency and visibility.\r\nDrives the continuous improvement of delivery processes and practices across the organisation.","6":"Defines and oversees the delivery strategy for multiple products or services.\r\nAligns delivery strategy with organisational goals and customer needs. Ensures effective allocation of resources and budget.\r\nMonitors and reports on performance of product and service delivery, ensuring alignment with objectives. Identifies and mitigates systemic risks and issues.\r\nSets the direction and standards for delivery management across the organisation. Leads the development of a culture focused on continuous improvement and customer-centricity."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DEMG"}},"Change analysis":{"Business situation analysis":{"code":"BUSA","description":"Investigating business situations to define recommendations for improvement action.","levels":{"2":"Assists in investigating business situations to help identify and analyse problems and opportunities, under routine supervision. \r\nHelps collect and organise data and information to support recommendations.","3":"Investigates straightforward business situations to identify and analyse problems and opportunities. \r\nContributes to the recommendation of improvements. \r\nFollows agreed standards and techniques to investigate, analyse and document business situations. \r\nEngages with stakeholders under direction.","4":"Investigates business situations where there is some complexity and ambiguity. \r\nAdopts holistic view to identify and analyse problems and opportunities. \r\nContributes to the selection of the approach and techniques to be used for business situation analysis. \r\nConducts root cause analysis and identifies recommendations for improvements. Engages and collaborates with operational stakeholders.","5":"Plans, manages and investigates business situation analysis where there is significant ambiguity and complexity. \r\nAdvises on the approach and techniques to be used for business situation analysis. Ensures holistic view adopted to identify and analyse wide-ranging problems and opportunities. \r\nEngages and collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders, including those at the management level. Gains agreement from stakeholders to conclusions and recommendations. \r\nContributes to definition of organisational standards and guidelines for business situation analysis.","6":"Initiates and leads business situation analysis where there is extensive ambiguity, complexity and potentially significant organisational impacts. \r\nEstablishes and promotes the need for holistic business situation analysis prior to change programme initiation. \r\nEngages with stakeholders at executive level and advises on recommended change initiatives. \r\nDefines organisational policies, standards and techniques for business situation analysis."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/BUSA"},"Feasibility assessment":{"code":"FEAS","description":"Defining, evaluating and describing business change options for financial, technical and business feasibility and strategic alignment.","levels":{"2":"Assists in feasibility assessment tasks under routine supervision. \r\nHelps gather information required for feasibility assessments. \r\nSupports the identification and documentation of options for business change.","3":"Supports option identification and feasibility assessment.\r\nSelects and employs standard techniques to get the information required for feasibility assessment. \r\nSupports identification of tangible costs and benefits, and development of business cases.","4":"Selects relevant feasibility assessment approaches and techniques. \r\nIdentifies the range of possible options. Undertakes short-listing of options and feasibility assessment. \r\nEngages with internal and external stakeholders to get the information required for feasibility assessment. \r\nSupports preparation of business cases including cost/benefit, impact and risk analysis for each option.","5":"Manages investigative work to enable feasibility assessments. \r\nCollaborates with stakeholders and specialists to get the information required for feasibility assessment. \r\nAdvises on the selection of feasibility assessment approaches and techniques relevant to the business situation and options. \r\nPrepares business cases, including cost/benefit, impact and risk analysis for each option.","6":"Establishes an organisational framework and standards for feasibility assessment and business case development. \r\nDirects and leads feasibility assessments for initiatives that will have a significant impact on the organisation. \r\nEngages with senior stakeholders to clarify the strategic context for investment options. Directs and leads the selection of feasibility assessment approaches and techniques that are relevant to the business situation and options. \r\nPresents feasibility assessments and business cases to senior stakeholders and supports decision-making regarding investment options."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/FEAS"},"Requirements definition and management":{"code":"REQM","description":"Managing requirements through the entire delivery and operational lifecycle.","levels":{"2":"Uses standard techniques to elicit, specify and document requirements for simple subject areas with clearly-defined boundaries. \r\nAssists in the definition and management of requirements.  \r\nAssists in the creation of a requirements baseline/backlog.\r\nAssists in investigating and applying changes to requirements.","3":"Defines and manages scoping, requirements definition and prioritisation activities for small-scale changes and assists with more complex change initiatives.\r\nFollows agreed standards and applies appropriate techniques to elicit and document detailed requirements. Provides constructive challenge to stakeholders as required. Reviews requirements for errors and omissions. \r\nPrioritises requirements and documents traceability to source. \r\nProvides input to the requirements baseline/backlog. Investigates, manages and applies requests for changes to requirements, in line with change management policy.","4":"Defines and manages scoping, requirements definition and prioritisation activities for initiatives of medium size and complexity. \r\nContributes to selecting the requirements approach. \r\nFacilitates input from stakeholders, provides constructive challenge and enables effective prioritisation of requirements. \r\nEstablishes requirements baselines or backlogs, obtains appropriate agreement to requirements and ensures traceability to source.","5":"Plans and drives scoping, requirements definition and prioritisation activities for large, complex initiatives. \r\nSelects, adopts and adapts appropriate requirements definition and management methods, tools and techniques. Contributes to the development of organisational methods and standards for requirements management.\r\nObtains input and agreement to requirements from a diverse range of stakeholders. Negotiates with stakeholders to manage competing priorities and conflicts. \r\nEstablishes requirements baselines or backlogs. Ensures changes to requirements are investigated and managed.","6":"Champions the importance and value of requirements management principles and selecting effective requirements management lifecycle models. \r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for requirements definition and management. \r\nPlans and leads scoping, requirements definition and priority setting for complex, strategic programmes.\r\nDrives adoption of, and adherence to, policies and standards. Develops new methods and organisational capabilities for requirements management."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/REQM"},"Business modelling":{"code":"BSMO","description":"Creating abstract or distilled models of business scenarios, representing processes, data and roles to support decision-making and analysis.","levels":{"2":"Assists in creating models for simple, well-defined business scenarios under guidance. \r\nUses established techniques, as directed, to model simple subject areas with clearly-defined boundaries.\r\nSupports more complex modelling activities under the guidance of others by organising information and helping to apply relevant techniques.","3":"Produces models for straightforward business scenarios with clear boundaries, selecting suitable techniques to meet assigned objectives. \r\nEngages with subject matter experts to ensure models are accurate and meet business requirements. Applies established techniques to meet objectives, modelling business processes, roles and data.\r\nCollaborates with stakeholders to address issues and ensure models provide clarity and insight. \r\nTests models and makes improvements as needed, ensuring accuracy and relevance to the business context.","4":"Develops models for complex and ambiguous business scenarios. \r\nSelects appropriate techniques and approaches to ensure models capture the necessary business elements. Independently plans modelling activities, ensuring alignment with business objectives.\r\nCollaborates with operational stakeholders to validate and refine models based on feedback, and to gain agreement on modelling results and their implications. \r\nAdvises stakeholders interpreting and applying models for decision-making and business improvements.","5":"Manages the development of models that support strategic business objectives.\r\nWorks on complex and ambiguous scenarios, applying advanced techniques and methods. Creates bespoke models for non-standard contexts and ensures their alignment with overall business strategy.\r\nEnsures the quality of business modelling work. \r\nEngages and collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders providing guidance on selecting and applying appropriate modelling techniques. Influences decision-making by presenting models that highlight key business insights.","6":"Defines organisational standards for business modelling, ensuring models align with strategic business objectives. \r\nOversees the creation and maintenance of models across multiple functions and departments, ensuring they are used effectively.\r\nLeads organisation-wide initiatives to improve business modelling, introducing new techniques where necessary. \r\nEngages with senior stakeholders to gain agreement on strategic models and the decisions they inform."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/BSMO"},"User acceptance testing":{"code":"BPTS","description":"Validating systems, products, business processes or services to determine whether the acceptance criteria have been satisfied.","levels":{"2":"Assists in planning and preparing acceptance tests for systems, products, business processes or services.\r\nAssists in collecting feedback from acceptance testing.","3":"Follows agreed standards and techniques to devise test cases and scenarios based on pre-defined acceptance criteria. \r\nAnalyses and reports on test activities, results, issues and risks.","4":"Develops acceptance criteria related to functional and non-functional requirements, business processes, features, user stories and business rules. \r\nDesigns and specifies test cases and scenarios to test that systems, products and services fulfil the acceptance criteria and deliver the predicted business benefits. \r\nCollaborates with project colleagues and stakeholders involved in the analysis, development and operation of products, systems or services to ensure accuracy and comprehensive test coverage. \r\nAnalyses and reports on test activities, results, issues and risks including the work of others.","5":"Plans and manages user acceptance testing activity.\r\nSpecifies the testing environment. Manages the creation of test cases and scenarios, ensuring they reflect realistic operational conditions and coverage needs. \r\nEnsures entry and exit criteria are set and met before user acceptance testing starts or ends. Specifies required user resources. Ensures users receive appropriate training and support.\r\nEnsures tests and results are documented, analysed and reported, highlighting issues and risks to stakeholders. Provides authoritative advice on acceptance testing planning and execution.","6":"Leads the organisation's approach to user acceptance testing.\r\nEngages senior stakeholders to secure organisational commitment and resources for effective acceptance testing. \r\nIntegrates entry and exit criteria into user acceptance testing planning and execution. Provides input on required resources, including skills and availability, for user acceptance testing activities. Reports on any significant risks and issues, recommending actions as needed. \r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for acceptance testing. Develops acceptance testing capabilities and methods for the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/BPTS"}},"Change planning":{"Business process improvement":{"code":"BPRE","description":"Creating new and potentially disruptive approaches to performing business activities.","levels":{"2":"Assists in gathering data and documenting current business processes under routine supervision. \r\nParticipates in process mapping exercises and helps identify areas for potential improvement.\r\nAssists in creating process documentation.\r\nSupports the implementation of minor process changes and improvements.","3":"Applies standard techniques to analyse existing business processes and identifies opportunities for improvement.  \r\nCollaborates with stakeholders to ensure process changes align with business objectives. Proposes and implements process improvements that enhance efficiency, effectiveness and quality. \r\nDevelops and maintains process documentation. \r\nSupports the adoption of new technologies and tools to enable process automation and optimisation.","4":"Analyses and designs business processes to identify alternative solutions to improve efficiency, effectiveness and exploit new technologies and automation.\r\nDevelops graphical models of business processes to facilitate understanding and decision-making.\r\nRecommends implementation approaches for process improvement initiatives.","5":"Manages the execution of business process improvements. \r\nAssesses the feasibility of business process changes and recommends alternative approaches. \r\nSelects, tailors and implements methods and tools for improving business processes at programme, project or team level. \r\nContributes to the definition of organisational policies, standards and guidelines for business process improvement.","6":"Plans and leads strategic, large and complex business process improvement activities aligned with automation, or exploiting existing or new technologies.\r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for business process improvement. \r\nLeads the introduction of techniques, methodologies and tools to meet business requirements, ensuring consistency across all user groups.\r\nLeads the development of organisational capabilities for business process improvement and ensures adoption and adherence to policies and standards.","7":"Directs the identification, evaluation and adoption of new or existing technologies to improve business processes. \r\nAligns business strategies, enterprise transformation and technology strategies. \r\nEmbeds strategic business process improvement into the governance and leadership of the organisation. \r\nDirects the creation and review of a cross-functional, enterprise-wide approach and culture for embracing business process management."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/BPRE"},"Organisational capability development":{"code":"OCDV","description":"Providing leadership, advice and implementation support to assess organisational capabilities and to identify, prioritise and implement improvements.","levels":{"5":"Contributes to identifying new areas of capability improvement within the organisation which may be enhancements to skills, technology or processes. \r\nDevelops and maintains a detailed knowledge of capability improvement approaches and techniques and selects appropriate approaches for the organisation. \r\nConducts capability improvement assignments, such as maturity or performance assessments, to identify strengths and weaknesses. Selects and prioritises improvement opportunities, generates buy-in and plans improvement activities justified by measurable organisational benefits. \r\nOffers support, guidance, advice and suggestions to help continual improvement activities.","6":"Seeks out, identifies, proposes and initiates capability improvement activities within the organisation. \r\nLeads substantial improvement programmes. Plans and manages the evaluation or assessment of organisational capabilities. Selects frameworks, approaches and techniques for use. \r\nTakes action to exploit opportunities to deliver measurable, beneficial impacts upon operational effectiveness. Devises solutions and leads change initiatives, including communication, transition and implementation activities. \r\nMonitors international, national and sector trends to establish the needed capability.","7":"Represents and leads organisational capability improvement at the highest level. \r\nDetermines the need for strategic organisation-level capability improvement to satisfy the organisation's strategic goals and long-term objectives.\r\nLiaises with the organisation's functions to establish requirements and identifies, proposes, initiates and leads significant organisational capability improvement programmes.\r\nManages the quality and appropriateness of the work performed and delivers measurable business benefits. Adopts and/or modifies existing capability improvement approaches as necessary."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/OCDV"},"Job analysis and design":{"code":"JADN","description":"Planning, analysing and designing job roles and structures to align with organisational requirements, goals and culture.","levels":{"3":"Gathers data regarding job roles and responsibilities from various sources. \r\nAssists in mapping tasks and competencies using established skills-based frameworks. Contributes to the creation of preliminary job descriptions and performance metrics. \r\nWorks under direction to align job roles with organisational strategies, workplace practices and evolving requirements. \r\nProvides support in the assessment of job changes and their impact on workflows and employee satisfaction. Participates in the process of revising job documentation to reflect updated role definitions and responsibilities.","4":"Performs detailed job analyses, breaking down roles using data-driven insights. \r\nCreates or revises job descriptions with consideration of required skills, competencies and organisational culture. \r\nEvaluates the impact of job role changes on workflows, employee engagement and overall workplace practices. \r\nProvides insights into aligning job roles with emerging organisational needs, including technology integration and adaptive strategies. Collaborates with stakeholders to ensure job designs are effective, responsive to changing business needs and aligned with skills-based approaches.","5":"Leads job architecture and design initiatives, ensuring alignment with organisational strategies and evolving workplace practices. \r\nDevelops comprehensive role definitions that encompass necessary skills, competencies and alignment with the organisation's culture and goals.\r\nAssesses and suggests modifications to existing roles to improve effectiveness and address new challenges. \r\nProvides authoritative advice on the adaptation of job architecture and job design to reflect changes in organisational strategy, technology, workplace practices and skills-based approaches."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/JADN"},"Organisation design and implementation":{"code":"ORDI","description":"Planning, designing and implementing an integrated organisation structure and culture.","levels":{"3":"Assists in designing team structures and workflows under guidance, following standard modelling techniques and tools.\r\nHelps develop visual representations of organisational models to aid understanding. Assists in preparing and updating organisational charts, role descriptions and other documentation.\r\nSupports evaluation of design options by gathering and analysing data. Participates in creating design views to address stakeholder concerns and perspectives.","4":"Designs team structures and workflows using modelling techniques, following agreed architectures, design standards and methodologies. \r\nDevelops visual representations of organisational models and structures to facilitate understanding and decision-making. Supports the identification and evaluation of alternative design options and trade-offs.\r\nCreates multiple design views to address the concerns of different stakeholders and to present different perspectives. Develops representations of team dynamics and workflows to aid stakeholder understanding and approval.\r\nReviews and refines designs to ensure they meet specifications.","5":"Leads the design and implementation of organisational structures for significant teams, departments or divisions.\r\nConducts impact analyses on major design options and trade-offs to inform strategic decision-making.\r\nAligns existing organisational structures, roles, jobs and career paths to new processes and strategies. Ensures that the organisational design balances organisational performance and cultural requirements.\r\nReviews organisational designs and ensures that appropriate methods, tools and techniques are applied effectively. Contributes to development of organisational design policies, processes and standards.","6":"Champions the value of new ways of working to address internal and external opportunities and threats. \r\nSets direction and leads in selecting and using organisation design techniques, methodologies and tools. \r\nPlans and leads organisation design activities, identifies alternatives, assesses feasibility and recommends solutions. Identifies major changes affecting the organisation and mobilises resources to implement changes. \r\nInitiates the definition of new organisation boundaries and creates future organisation design. Outlines performance measurement objectives and the high-level implementation approach.","7":"Establishes and communicates the need and rationale for organisational structure and culture change. \r\nSecures organisational commitment and resources needed for organisational and culture change. \r\nLeads organisational change by removing obstacles, advocating and lobbying for change at the highest levels. \r\nPuts in place mechanisms to reinforce and embed organisational and culture change. Acts as a role model for desired behaviours and sets consistent standards and expectations."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ORDI"},"Organisational change management":{"code":"CIPM","description":"Planning, designing and implementing activities to transition the organisation and people to the required future state.","levels":{"2":"Assists with organisational change management tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the collection and analysis of data related to change readiness and impact.\r\nHelps document and communicate change management plans and activities.","3":"Follows standard techniques to investigate and analyse the size, nature and impact of changes to operational activities. \r\nContributes to change management plans and actions, focusing on the procedural execution of change. \r\nSupports implementation and engages with stakeholders under direction.","4":"Conducts readiness assessments to assess the size, nature and impact of organisational change. \r\nDefines tactics to use considering the challenges to be addressed. Provides guidance and makes suggestions to support individuals responsible for operational implementation of change management activities.\r\nGathers feedback to analyse the impact and effectiveness of the change management activities being deployed. Takes corrective action as required.\r\nDevelops and communicates tailored change management plans. Establishes and builds relationships with the project sponsors and key stakeholders.","5":"Develops the change management approach and a change management plan in collaboration with sponsors, users and project teams. \r\nCreates and implements action plans to ensure readiness for change before going live. Acquires change management resources and develops their capabilities to deliver the required changes.\r\nGathers feedback to allow timely improvements to the change management plan and approach. Assesses risks and takes preventative action. \r\nDevelops and communicates tailored change management plans for senior stakeholder groups. Provides guidance to support change sponsors.","6":"Defines and communicates the approach for change management for a significant part of the organisation. \r\nInitiates, plans and leads strategic, large and complex change management initiatives. Provides guidance to change leaders, emphasising the technical and procedural aspects of change.\r\nEstablishes feedback processes and leads analyses of change management successes.  \r\nEnables continual improvements to change management methodology, tools and training necessary to enhance the maturity across the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/CIPM"},"Organisational change enablement":{"code":"OCEN","description":"Facilitates cultural and behavioural change by enabling individuals and teams to embed new ways of working and adapt to changes.","levels":{"4":"Supports teams in adopting new practices, providing ongoing resources and guidance. \r\nFacilitates a safe environment for exploring challenges related to change. \r\nAssists with engagement sessions to secure leadership commitment, focusing on the behavioural aspects of change.\r\nAddresses issues that arise during implementation, ensuring minimal disruption.","5":"Develops and implements cultural change plans across teams, ensuring alignment with long-term success. \r\nCoordinates cross-functional teams to support the adoption of new behaviours. Communicates how changes align with business goals and long-term success, focusing on emotional and behavioural impacts. Supports leaders and employees in exploring challenges associated with adopting new practices. \r\nEnables employees to develop the necessary skills and behaviours for sustained change.","6":"Champions new ways of working that align with strategic opportunities. \r\nInfluences and engages with senior executives to gain their support for change initiatives. \r\nGuides the development of strategies and roadmaps to drive long-term behavioural change.  Reviews progress, addresses challenges and ensures the sustainability of change initiatives.\r\nProvides guidance to change leaders, focusing on the human aspects of organisational change."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/OCEN"}}},"Development and implementation":{"Systems development":{"Product management":{"code":"PROD","description":"Managing and developing products or services throughout their full lifecycle, from inception through growth, maturity, and decline, to retirement.","levels":{"2":"Assists with product management tasks under routine supervision. \r\nHelps create and curate content to support product usage.\r\nAssists in monitoring results and feedback from product activities.\r\nSupports problem resolution by collecting and reporting on feedback and usage data.","3":"Creates and curates various content to support the adoption and usage of products or services. \r\nMonitors results and feedback from product campaigns. \r\nApplies standard techniques and tools to carry out analysis and performance monitoring activities for specified products. \r\nSupports problem resolution, resolves issues and acts on feedback for products in use.","4":"Manages one or more lower-value products or services. \r\nPrioritises product requirements and develops product roadmaps. Owns the product backlog. Manages elements of the product lifecycle to meet customer/user needs and achieve financial or other targets. \r\nUses insights from market and/or user research, feedback, expert opinion and usage data to understand needs and opportunities. \r\nFacilitates uptake of products by developing content, supporting and evaluating campaigns and monitoring product performance. Rolls out product trials and product launches.","5":"Manages the full product lifecycle to meet customer/user needs and achieve targets. \r\nSelects and adapts appropriate product development methods, tools and techniques. \r\nUses insights from market and/or user research, feedback and usage data to understand needs and opportunities. Develops product propositions and determines positioning and variants for different segments. Prioritises requirements and develops product roadmaps. \r\nCoordinates customer testing, product launches and supports communications and training. Adapts products based on changing customer/user needs and creates retirement and transition plans.","6":"Oversees the organisation’s product and services portfolio and the delivery of customer value and/or user satisfaction. \r\nCreates the product lifecycle management framework for internal and external customers and users. Champions the value of product management principles and appropriate product development models. \r\nAligns the product management objectives with business objectives and authorises the selection and planning of all product management activities. \r\nInitiates the creation of new products and services. Identifies how developing new products or adapting existing products can create new opportunities."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PROD"},"Systems development management":{"code":"DLMG","description":"Planning, estimating and executing systems development work to time, budget and quality targets.","levels":{"4":"Contributes to the planning and management of systems development work.\r\nAdopts and applies appropriate systems development methods, tools and techniques in line with agreed standards. \r\nEngages with stakeholders to ensure systems development deliverables meet requirements and quality expectations. Manages risks and issues related to systems development activities, escalating as needed. \r\nContributes to the continuous improvement of systems development processes and practices.","5":"Plans and drives systems development work to deliver the organisation's objectives and plans. \r\nSelects, adopts and adapts appropriate systems development methods, tools and techniques. Ensures stakeholders are aware of required resources and that they are made available. Facilitates availability and optimum utilisation of resources. \r\nMonitors and reports on the progress of development projects. Ensures projects are carried out in accordance with agreed architectures, standards, methods and tools and addresses security and privacy requirements. \r\nDevelops roadmaps to communicate future development activity.","6":"Sets policy and drives adherence to standards for systems development. \r\nLeads activities to make security and privacy integral to systems development. \r\nIdentifies and manages the resources necessary for all stages of systems development projects. \r\nEnsures technical, financial and quality targets are met.","7":"Directs the definition, implementation and continual improvement of the organisation’s systems development management framework. \r\nAligns systems development to business strategies and objectives and with emerging technology and digital opportunities. Maintains an overview of the contribution of systems development programmes to organisational success.\r\nAuthorises the structure of systems development functions and platforms. \r\nSets strategy for resource management within systems development and authorises the allocation of resources for systems development programmes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DLMG"},"Systems and software lifecycle engineering":{"code":"SLEN","description":"Establishing and deploying an environment for developing, continually improving and securely operating software and systems products and services.","levels":{"3":"Provides support for implementing systems and software lifecycle practices by applying established methods and procedures. \r\nSupports automation and continuous integration processes under direction. \r\nMonitors and reports on the effectiveness of lifecycle management activities. \r\nContributes to the documentation and maintenance of lifecycle tools and practices.","4":"Elicits requirements for systems and software lifecycle working practices and automation.\r\nPrepares design options for the working environment of methods, procedures, techniques, tools and people. \r\nSelects systems and software lifecycle working practices for software components and micro-services. \r\nDeploys automation to achieve well-engineered and secure outcomes.","5":"Collaborates with those responsible for ongoing systems and software lifecycle management to select, adopt and adapt working practices.\r\nSupports deployment of the working environment for systems and software lifecycle working practices.\r\nProvides effective feedback to encourage development of the individuals and teams responsible for systems and software lifecycle working practices. Provides guidance and makes suggestions to support continual improvement and learning approach.\r\nContributes to identifying new domains within the organisation where systems and software lifecycle working practices can be deployed.","6":"Obtains organisational commitment to strategies to deliver systems and software lifecycle working practices to achieve business objectives. \r\nWorks with others to integrate organisational policies, standards and techniques across the full software and systems lifecycle. \r\nDevelops and deploys the working environment supporting systems and software lifecycle practices for strategic, large and complex products and services. \r\nLeads activities to manage risks associated with systems and software lifecycle working practices. Plans and manages the evaluation or assessment of systems and software lifecycle working practices","7":"Represents and leads systems and software lifecycle working practices at the highest level in the organisation.\r\nIdentifies opportunities for innovation in systems and software lifecycle working practices to achieve organisational goals and objectives. \r\nLeads the essential cultural and environmental changes and communicates the benefits to all stakeholders. \r\nOversees the quality of the work performed and delivers measurable business benefits."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SLEN"},"Systems design":{"code":"DESN","description":"Designing systems to meet specified requirements and agreed systems architectures.","levels":{"2":"Assists in the creation and documentation of system design elements under routine supervision. \r\nFollows established procedures and guidelines. \r\nHelps create and maintain documentation.","3":"Follows standard approaches and established design patterns to create new designs for simple systems or system components.\r\nIdentifies and resolves minor design issues. \r\nIdentifies alternative design options and seeks guidance when deviating from established design patterns.","4":"Designs system components using appropriate modelling techniques following agreed architectures, design standards, patterns and methodology. \r\nIdentifies and evaluates alternative design options and trade-offs. Creates multiple design views to address the concerns of the different stakeholders and to handle functional and non-functional requirements. \r\nModels, simulates or prototypes the behaviour of proposed system components to enable approval by stakeholders. \r\nProduces detailed design specifications to form the basis for the construction of systems. Reviews, verifies and improves own designs against specifications.","5":"Designs large or complex systems and undertakes impact analysis on major design options and trade-offs. \r\nEnsures the system design balances functional and non-functional requirements. \r\nReviews systems designs and ensures appropriate methods, tools and techniques are applied effectively. Makes recommendations and assesses and manages associated risks. \r\nAdopts and adapts system design methods, tools and techniques. Contributes to development of system design policies, standards and selection of architecture components.","6":"Develops and drives adoption of and adherence to organisational policies, standards, guidelines and methods for system design. \r\nChampions the importance and value of system design principles and the selection of appropriate systems design lifecycle models. \r\nLeads system design activities for strategic, large and complex systems development programmes. Develops effective implementation strategies consistent with specified requirements, architectures and constraints of performance and feasibility. \r\nDevelops system design requiring the introduction of new technologies or new uses for existing technologies."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DESN"},"Software design":{"code":"SWDN","description":"Architecting and designing software to meet specified requirements, ensuring adherence to established standards and principles.","levels":{"2":"Creates and documents detailed designs for simple software applications or components. \r\nApplies agreed modelling techniques, standards, patterns and tools. \r\nContributes to the design of components of larger software systems, ensuring alignment with overall design requirements, including security.\r\nReviews own work.","3":"Undertakes complete design of moderately complex software applications or components.\r\nApplies agreed standards, guidelines, patterns and tools. Assists as part of a team in the design of components of larger software systems. Specifies user and/or system interfaces. \r\nCreates multiple design views to address the different stakeholders' concerns and to handle functional and non-functional requirements, considering all relevant factors, including security. Assists in the evaluation of options and trade-offs. \r\nCollaborates in reviews of work with others as appropriate.","4":"Designs and architects complex software applications, components and modules.\r\nUses appropriate modelling techniques in line with agreed software design standards, guidelines, patterns and methodologies. Produces and communicates multiple design views to address stakeholder concerns and meet both functional and non-functional requirements including security.\r\nIdentifies, evaluates and recommends design alternatives and trade-offs. Models, simulates or prototypes proposed software behaviours to secure stakeholder approval and facilitate effective software construction.  \r\nReviews, verifies and enhances own designs against specifications and leads reviews of others' designs.","5":"Specifies, designs and architects large or complex software applications, components and modules. \r\nAdopts and adapts software design methods, tools and techniques. Undertakes impact analysis on major design options, makes recommendations and assesses and manages associated risks. Specifies prototypes/simulations to enable informed decision-making. \r\nEvaluates software designs to ensure adherence to standards and identifies corrective action. Ensures the software design balances functional, quality, security and systems management requirements. \r\nContributes to the development of organisational software design and architecture policies and standards.","6":"Leads the selection and development of software design and architectural methods, tools and techniques. \r\nDefines and maintains architectural principles, patterns and frameworks to guide software design and development across the organisation.\r\nEnsures adherence to technical strategies and systems architectures (including security)."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SWDN"},"Network design":{"code":"NTDS","description":"Designing communication networks to meet business requirements, ensuring scalability, reliability, security and alignment with strategic objectives.","levels":{"2":"Assists with defining configurations for networks and network components under routine supervision. \r\nFollows established network architectures, standards, and security protocols.\r\nAssists in documenting network configurations and producing detailed network specifications under guidance, incorporating relevant security aspects.","3":"Specifies the technical configurations and components required for a small network or a network segment in a more complex infrastructure.\r\nFollows organisational architectures, standards, and security guidelines.","4":"Designs specific network components using agreed architectures, design standards, patterns and methodology.\r\nTranslates logical designs into physical designs that meet specified operational parameters for capacity and performance.\r\nReviews and verifies network designs against non-functional requirements, including validation and error correction procedures, access, security and audit controls.\r\nContributes to the development of recovery routines and contingency procedures. Contributes to alternative network architectures, networking topologies and design options.","5":"Produces, or approves network providers', network architectures, topologies and configuration databases for own area of responsibility.\r\nSpecifies design parameters for network connectivity, capacity, speed, interfacing, security and access, in line with business requirements.\r\nAssesses network-related risks and specifies recovery routines and contingency procedures.\r\nCreates multiple design views to address the different stakeholders' concerns and to handle both functional and non-functional requirements.","6":"Takes responsibility for major aspects of network specification, standards, technologies and overall network design models within the organisation.\r\nProduces network design policies, principles and criteria covering connectivity, capacity, interfacing, security, resilience, recovery and access.\r\nDevelops and drives adoption of and adherence to organisational policies, standards, guidelines and methods for network design."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/NTDS"},"Infrastructure design":{"code":"IFDN","description":"Designing technology infrastructure to meet business requirements, ensuring scalability, reliability, security and alignment with strategic objectives.","levels":{"2":"Assists in developing preliminary infrastructure design specifications under routine supervision. \r\nUses established standards and security protocols to contribute to infrastructure design activities. \r\nHelps draft design documents and diagrams. Documents design-related issues.","3":"Performs varied infrastructure design tasks, including complex and non-routine assignments, using standard methods. \r\nDevelops design specifications and diagrams for infrastructure components, integrating hardware, software, network elements, and cloud services, and addressing security requirements.\r\nCollaborates with others to align infrastructure design with organisational objectives and resolve design issues. \r\nSuggests improvements to enhance infrastructure performance and reliability.","4":"Leads the design of complex infrastructure systems to deliver comprehensive design solutions. \r\nDevelops detailed architectural frameworks and ensures integration of all infrastructure components, including cloud services.\r\nProvides guidance on recommended practices and design standards. Reviews and validates design specifications and documentation. \r\nChecks that designs are scalable, reliable and secure, aligning with business and technical requirements.","5":"Manages the design of infrastructure from analysis to execution and evaluation. \r\nAccountable for achieving design objectives and ensuring alignment with organisational goals and the effective integration of infrastructure components and systems. Provides authoritative guidance on design practices and methodologies.\r\nEvaluates new technologies and their applicability to the organisation's needs. Develops and enforces design standards and recommended practices, ensuring consistent and high-quality design outcomes.","6":"Develops and drives adoption of and adherence to organisational policies, standards, guidelines and methods for infrastructure design.\r\nCollaborates with senior stakeholders to align design projects with organisational objectives. \r\nProvides strategic oversight and guidance, ensuring infrastructure designs are forward-looking, scalable and secure. \r\nAccountable for the overall success of infrastructure design initiatives."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/IFDN"},"Hardware design":{"code":"HWDE","description":"Specifying and designing hardware systems and components to meet defined requirements by following agreed design principles and standards.","levels":{"2":"Assists in designing simple hardware components or subsystems under guidance.\r\nFollows established design principles, patterns and methodologies as directed. Participates in translating logical designs into physical implementations.\r\nTests hardware components or subsystems against provided specifications and documents results. Contributes to the documentation of hardware designs using required standards, methods and tools.\r\nSeeks guidance and support for deviations from standard practices or when facing unfamiliar scenarios.","3":"Follows selected standard approaches and design patterns to design simple hardware components. \r\nSeeks guidance when deviating from established design patterns. Takes account of target environment, performance, security, safety, reliability and sustainability requirements.\r\nTranslates logical designs into physical designs. Tests the performance of prototypes and production output against specification.\r\nSubmits hardware designs for approval. Documents all work using required standards, methods and tools.","4":"Designs hardware components, taking account of target environment, performance, security, safety, reliability and sustainability requirements. \r\nTranslates logical designs into physical designs and delivers technical prototypes of proposed components for approval and production. \r\nDesigns the tests to measure the performance of prototypes and production output against specification and inform iterative development.","5":"Specifies and designs complex hardware components/systems. \r\nSelects appropriate design standards, methods and tools, consistent with agreed policies and ensures they are applied effectively. \r\nUndertakes impact analysis on major design options. Assesses and manages associated risks. Ensures hardware designs balance functional, quality, safety, security, systems management, reliability and sustainability requirements. \r\nReviews designs created by others to ensure selection of appropriate technology, efficient use of resources and effective integration of multiple systems and technology. Contributes to policy for selection of components.","6":"Provides overall direction and leadership in the hardware design practice within an organisation. \r\nInfluences industry-based models for the development of new technology and  components. \r\nDevelops effective procurement strategies, consistent with business needs. \r\nDevelops, drives adoption and ensures adherence to organisational policies, strategies and standards for hardware design."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/HWDE"},"Programming/software development":{"code":"PROG","description":"Developing software components to deliver value to stakeholders.","levels":{"2":"Designs, codes, verifies, tests, documents, amends and refactors simple programs/scripts. \r\nApplies agreed standards, tools and basic security practices to achieve a well-engineered result.\r\nReviews own work.","3":"Designs, codes, verifies, tests, documents, amends and refactors moderately complex programs/scripts. \r\nApplies agreed standards, tools and security measures to achieve a well-engineered result.\r\nMonitors and reports on progress. Identifies issues related to software development activities. Proposes practical solutions to resolve issues.\r\nCollaborates in reviews of work with others as appropriate.","4":"Designs, codes, verifies, tests, documents, amends and refactors complex programs/scripts and integration software services. \r\nContributes to the selection of the software development methods, tools, techniques, and security practices.\r\nApplies agreed standards, tools, and security measures to achieve well-engineered outcomes.\r\nParticipates in reviews of own work and leads reviews of colleagues' work.","5":"Takes technical responsibility across all stages and iterations of software development. \r\nPlans and drives software construction activities. Adopts and adapts appropriate software development methods, tools and techniques. \r\nMeasures and monitors applications of project/team standards for software construction, including software security. \r\nContributes to the development of organisational policies, standards and guidelines for software development.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for software construction and refactoring. \r\nPlans and leads software construction activities for strategic, large and complex development projects. \r\nAdapts or develops new methods and organisational capabilities and drives adoption of, and adherence to, policies and standards."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PROG"},"Systems integration and build":{"code":"SINT","description":"Planning, implementing and controlling activities to integrate system elements, subsystems and interfaces to create operational systems, products or services.","levels":{"2":"Produces builds from system components using appropriate build automation tools and processes.\r\nConducts tests as defined in an integration test specification and records the details of any failures.\r\nAnalyses and reports on integration test activities and results. Identifies and reports issues and risks.","3":"Defines the modules and components and dependencies needed for an integration build and produces a build definition. Accepts completed modules and components, checking that they meet defined criteria.\r\nProduces builds from system components for loading onto target environments. \r\nConfigures the hardware, software and infrastructure environment as required by the system being integrated. \r\nProduces integration test specifications, conducts tests and records and reports on outcomes. Diagnoses faults and documents the results of tests. Produces system integration reports.","4":"Provides technical expertise to enable the configuration of system components and equipment for systems testing.\r\nCollaborates with technical teams to develop and agree system integration plans and report on progress. Defines complex/new integration builds. Ensures integration test environments are correctly configured.\r\nDesigns, performs and reports results of tests of the integration build. Identifies and documents system integration components for recording in the configuration management system.\r\nRecommends and implements improvements to processes and tools.","5":"Plans and drives activities to develop organisational systems integration and build capabilities including automation and continuous integration.\r\nIdentifies, evaluates and manages the adoption of tools, techniques and processes to create a robust integration framework. Provides authoritative advice and guidance on any aspect of systems integration.\r\nLeads integration work in line with the agreed system and service design. Assesses risks and takes preventative action. Measures and monitors applications of standards.\r\nContributes to the development of organisational policies, standards and guidelines for systems integration.","6":"Leads the development of organisational systems integration and build capabilities including automation and continuous integration.\r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for systems integration and build.\r\nProvides resources to ensure systems integration and build can operate effectively and ensures adoption and adherence to policies and standards."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SINT"},"Functional testing":{"code":"TEST","description":"Assessing specified or unspecified functional requirements and characteristics of products, systems and services through investigation and testing.","levels":{"1":"Executes given manual functional test scripts under supervision to verify basic software capabilities.\r\nConfigures test environments, uses basic automated tools for functionality verification, records results and reports issues.","2":"Assists in designing functional test cases and creating test scripts. \r\nSupports the preparation of test data for functional testing under supervision.\r\nConfigures test environments to reflect realistic use cases.\r\nExecutes and records manual and automated functional tests, analysing results and reporting on findings, issues and risks.","3":"Designs detailed functional test cases and scripts, covering various scenarios and boundary values.\r\nActively participates in requirement and design reviews, refining test plans based on insights gained. \r\nUndertakes structured exploratory testing to investigate and verify functionality. \r\nPrepares test data, configures environments and automates repeatable tests. Executes tests, logs defects with detailed information and analyses results to assess system functionality.","4":"Selects appropriate functional testing approaches, considering risk, criticality and complexity. \r\nDevelops, automates and executes comprehensive test plans and cases. \r\nConfigures environments to mirror real-world usage, collaborates with stakeholders to refine requirements and manages scalable automated testing frameworks. \r\nIdentifies and mitigates risks during testing, provides detailed analysis and reports on functional test activities and results, including work done by others.","5":"Leads functional testing efforts across all development stages, ensuring alignment with functional requirements and focusing on risk-based prioritisation.\r\nProvides authoritative advice on testing methods, tools and frameworks.\r\nMonitors and improves test coverage, collaborates with teams to address challenges and ensures compliance with standards.\r\nLeads efforts to improve the efficiency and reliability of functional testing. Identifies improvements and contributes to organisational policies, standards and guidelines for functional testing.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for functional testing, ensuring they align with business strategy and incorporate a risk-based approach.\r\nPlans and leads complex testing initiatives, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and incorporating a risk-based approach.\r\nManages risks and opportunities, coordinates with other testing activities and drives improvements in functional testing capabilities.\r\nPromotes a culture of quality in functional testing, driving adherence to organisational standards and proactive risk mitigation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/TEST"},"Non-functional testing":{"code":"NFTS","description":"Assessing systems and services to evaluate performance, security, scalability and other non-functional qualities against requirements or expected standards.","levels":{"1":"Executes given non-functional test scripts under supervision, focusing on system qualities and characteristics such as performance.\r\nSets up basic test environments and uses standard tools to execute prescribed tests.\r\nRecords results and reports issues.","2":"Assists in designing non-functional test cases and creating test scripts. \r\nSupports the preparation of test data for non-functional testing under supervision. Configures test environments. Executes both manual and automated non-functional testing.\r\nImplements appropriate test tools based on given non-functional requirements or specifications. Defines test conditions for given non-functional requirements. \r\nAnalyses and reports on test activities, results, issues and risks.","3":"Designs non-functional test cases and scripts, mapping to pre-set criteria for system qualities and characteristics.\r\nPrepares and manages test data to reflect real-world scenarios. Configures test environments, collaborates with stakeholders to clarify requirements and automates repeatable tests. \r\nParticipates in requirement reviews to refine comprehensive test plans. Undertakes exploratory tests to investigate unusual behaviours. \r\nExecutes tests, troubleshooting issues as they arise. Analyses and reports on test activities, providing thorough coverage of non-functional attributes.","4":"Selects suitable non-functional testing approaches, considering system criticality and complexity. \r\nDevelops, automates and executes test plans for end-to-end system attributes. Configures and manages complex, test environments, ensuring alignment with production conditions. \r\nApplies risk-based strategies to prioritise test efforts and collaborates across teams to ensure comprehensive automated test coverage. Troubleshoots issues in real-time, ensuring prompt resolution. \r\nAnalyses and reports on test activities, results and risks, including the work of others.","5":"Plans and drives non-functional testing across all stages, ensuring alignment with requirements and prioritising risk-based strategies. \r\nProvides expert advice on non-functional  methods, tools and frameworks. Leads the setup and maintenance of advanced test environments. \r\nMonitors the application of testing standards, ensuring they reflect real-world conditions. Troubleshoots and resolves complex issues, working closely with stakeholders.\r\nLeads efforts to improve the efficiency and reliability of non-functional testing. Identifies improvements and contributes to organisational policies, standards and guidelines for non-functional testing.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for process testing, ensuring they align with business strategy and incorporate a risk-based approach.\r\nPlans and leads strategic, complex testing activities, ensuring they align with overall system quality goals. Manages risks and opportunities, coordinating with other types of testing.\r\nDevelops organisational capabilities to address complex quality validation challenges. Drives continuous automation and improvements in test environments.\r\nPromotes a culture of quality in non-functional testing, driving adherence to organisational standards and proactive risk mitigation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/NFTS"},"Process testing":{"code":"PRTS","description":"Assessing documented and undocumented process flows within a product, system or service against business needs through investigation and testing.","levels":{"1":"Executes given process test scripts under supervision to verify business workflows and user journeys. \r\nConfigures basic test environments to simulate business processes.\r\nUses standard testing tools for process validation, records results and reports issues.","2":"Designs test cases and scripts to validate key business scenarios and workflows.\r\nSupports the preparation and management of test data under supervision to align with business processes Configures test environments to reflect real-world business processes.\r\nExecutes and records manual and automated process tests in line with test plans.\r\nAnalyses and reports on test activities, identifying issues and risks related to business process validation.","3":"Designs process test cases and scripts that cover end-to-end business scenarios. \r\nActively participates in requirement and design reviews to refine test plans. Prepares and manages test data that accurately mirrors business processes. \r\nConfigures test environments, executes tests and addresses issues as they arise. Undertakes structured exploratory testing to assess alternative business flows. \r\nAutomates repeatable tests for efficiency. Analyses and reports on outcomes, focusing on impacts to business processes.","4":"Selects and applies appropriate testing approaches based on business criticality, risk and process complexity. \r\nDevelops, automates and executes detailed test plans focusing on end-to-end process validation. Ensures automated test environments accurately simulate real business processes and workflows. \r\nCollaborates closely with stakeholders to refine business requirements and ensure full coverage. Identifies and mitigates risks throughout the testing process and addresses issues.\r\nProvides detailed analysis and reports on the impact of test results on business operations, including work done by others.","5":"Leads process testing activities across all stages of development, ensuring alignment with business objectives and prioritising key workflows based on risk.\r\nEnsures test environments are robust and reflective of actual business operations.\r\nProvides expert advice on process testing, ensuring tests are effective and align with business needs.\r\nLeads efforts to improve the efficiency and reliability of process testing. Identifies gaps and risks and contributes to the development of policies and standards that support comprehensive and risk-based process testing.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for process testing, ensuring they align with business strategy and incorporate a risk-based approach.\r\nPlans and leads large-scale process testing initiatives, focusing on validating complex and critical processes.\r\nLeads efforts to optimise and innovate process testing methodologies, integrating them with overall business goals and risk management strategies.\r\nPromotes a culture of quality in process testing, driving adherence to organisational standards and proactive risk mitigation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PRTS"},"Software configuration":{"code":"PORT","description":"Designing and deploying software product configurations into software environments or platforms.","levels":{"2":"Assists with software configuration tasks.\r\nSupports the setup and customisation of software environments and platforms.\r\nHelps document and report on configuration changes and deployments.\r\nReviews own work.","3":"Designs, verifies, documents, amends and refactors moderately complex software configurations for deployment. \r\nApplies agreed standards and tools, to achieve a well-engineered result. \r\nCollaborates in reviews of work with others as appropriate.","4":"Designs, verifies, documents, amends and refactors complex software configurations for deployment. \r\nContributes to the selection of the software configuration methods, tools and techniques.\r\nApplies agreed standards and tools, to achieve well-engineered outcomes. \r\nParticipates in reviews of own work and leads reviews of colleagues' work.","5":"Takes technical responsibility across all stages and iterations of configuration development and deployment. \r\nPlans and drives software configuration activities. Adopts and adapts appropriate software configuration methods, tools and techniques. \r\nMeasures and monitors the application of standards for configuration design and deployment including software security. \r\nContributes to the development of organisational policies, standards and guidelines for software configuration design and deployment.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for software configuration design, deployment and refactoring. \r\nPlans and leads software configuration and deployment activities for strategic, large and complex deployment projects. \r\nDevelops new methods and organisational capabilities and drives adoption of and adherence to policies and standards."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PORT"},"Real-time/embedded systems development":{"code":"RESD","description":"Designing and developing reliable real-time software typically within embedded systems.","levels":{"2":"Designs, builds and tests simple real-time/embedded components as part of an overall larger systems design. \r\nUses appropriate programming languages to drive simple sensors and actuators. \r\nApplies specialised tools for real-time program analysis and system debugging.","3":"Designs, builds and integrates medium-complexity real-time/embedded components as part of an overall larger systems design. \r\nFollows agreed standards and uses specialised tools for system analysis and optimisation.\r\nDrives specialist hardware, typically sensors and actuators, and optimises component code for performance. \r\nApplies a range of approaches to the verification and testing of real-time components.","4":"Designs, builds and integrates complex real-time/embedded components and sub-systems.\r\nDesigns physical layouts that reflect the connection between system components to test and optimise performance. \r\nBuilds system prototypes and simulations to aid development and enable debugging, testing and troubleshooting of embedded software. \r\nApplies a range of approaches to the validation, verification, and testing of real-time components and sub-systems, using a variety of specialist tools for system analysis and optimisation.","5":"Designs and develops real-time/embedded architectures and systems to meet agreed system requirements.\r\nPlans and manages the development of complex real-time/embedded systems and selects the approaches and techniques to be used. \r\nAnalyses design options and trade-offs between hardware and software, makes recommendations and assesses and manages associated risks. Ensures effective validation, verification and testing is undertaken throughout development.\r\nOversees the integration of multiple sub-systems into the overall system.","6":"Provides overall direction and leadership in the development of real-time/embedded systems. \r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for real-time/embedded systems architectures and designs. \r\nPlans and leads strategic, large and complex real-time/embedded system developments.  Identifies opportunities to exploit new technologies and improve existing technologies and practices.  \r\nDrives adherence to technical strategies, systems architectures and the implementation of risk-based verification, validation and testing. Develops effective implementation and procurement strategies."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/RESD"},"Safety engineering":{"code":"SFEN","description":"Applying appropriate methods to assure safety during all lifecycle phases of safety-related systems developments.","levels":{"2":"Assists with safety engineering tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the documentation of hazard and risk analysis activities.\r\nHelps collect safety assurance evidence using agreed methods and procedures.","3":"Contributes to hazard and risk analysis during system development and implementation using agreed methods and procedures. \r\nDocuments the results of hazard and risk analysis activities.\r\nContributes to the collection of safety assurance evidence using appropriate methods and tools. \r\nUndertakes all work in accordance with agreed safety, technical and quality standards.","4":"Contributes to identifying, analysing and documenting hazards and safety risks using agreed methods and procedures.\r\nContributes to the specification of safety requirements. \r\nAnalyses and documents safety validation results during system development and implementation.\r\nContributes to developing and maintaining project safety assurance plans. Gathers safety assurance evidence for safety case preparation.","5":"Identifies and analyses hazards and contributes to identifying and evaluating risk reduction measures, ensuring these are adequately documented. \r\nSpecifies safety-related systems architectures for defined safety levels. \r\nDevelops and maintains project safety assurance plans. Monitors implementation and compliance. Ensures safety assurance evidence is gathered for safety case preparation.\r\nWorks with system architects, designers and developers to assure safety requirements implementation.","6":"Takes full responsibility for hazard analysis and risk evaluation, safety-related systems architectural design and safety compliance planning.\r\nLeads the definition and allocation of safety requirements for the system, according to the system's nature and required safety level.  \r\nTakes responsibility for the safety-related aspects of multiple complex or high safety integrity level projects."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SFEN"},"Safety assessment":{"code":"SFAS","description":"Assessing safety-related software and hardware systems to determine compliance with standards and required levels of safety integrity.","levels":{"4":"Collects safety assurance evidence using appropriate methods and tools. \r\nUndertakes all work in accordance with agreed safety, technical and quality standards.","5":"Undertakes safety analyses using agreed techniques to verify or validate that safety requirements are implemented. \r\nParticipates in system safety assessments.\r\nCreates safety assessment reports and recommends and defines how a system's safety requirements can be satisfied.","6":"Champions and promotes safety practices in the organisation. \r\nLeads safety assessments according to organisational safety policies and standards.\r\nDefines and implements organisational policies and standards for system safety assessment.\r\nAssures compliance with defined standards and policies and oversees overall safety lifecycle assessment activities."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SFAS"},"Radio frequency engineering":{"code":"RFEN","description":"Designing, installing and maintaining radio frequency based devices and software.","levels":{"2":"Assists with setting up, tuning and functional checks of radio frequency devices and software. \r\nResolves faults down to line replaceable unit level or escalates according to given procedures. \r\nCarries out user confidence checks and escalates faults according to given procedures. \r\nIntegrates RF devices with software applications using static configurations.","3":"Deploys, sets up, tunes and calibrates RF devices and software following maintenance schedules and using appropriate tools and test equipment. \r\nIncorporates hardware/firmware modifications. Interprets automatic fault/performance indications and resolves faults down to discrete component level or escalates according to given procedures. \r\nImplements communication protocols between system elements in accordance with defined standards. \r\nIntegrates RF devices with software applications, incorporating dynamic reconfiguration of elements under software control to optimise their operational performance.","4":"Investigates and resolves system-wide fault conditions using a wide range of diagnostic tools and techniques. \r\nReconfigures equipment to circumvent temporary outages. Specifies, selects and integrates RF devices in a system. \r\nDefines internal communication protocols for transmission over the available frequencies. \r\nReconfigures devices and software to optimise performance.","5":"Monitors system performance, recommends equipment modifications and changes to operating procedures, servicing methods and schedules. \r\nDevelops maintenance schedules and procedures. Approves equipment upgrades and modifications. \r\nReviews industry and national standards on relevant RF protocols and regulations. \r\nMeasures and evaluates the effectiveness of RF devices and software.","6":"Provides overall direction and leadership for the use of RF based devices and software. \r\nSpecifies requirements for radio frequency equipment performance and sets maintenance policy. \r\nIdentifies opportunities to exploit new technologies and improve existing technologies and practices.\r\nDevelops effective implementation and procurement strategies."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/RFEN"},"Animation development":{"code":"ADEV","description":"Designing and developing animated and interactive systems such as games, simulations and virtual environments.","levels":{"2":"Assists in the creation of basic visual and audio components for animations under routine supervision. \r\nFollows established procedures and guidelines and contributes to the development of simple animations using standard tools. \r\nHelps create and maintain documentation.","3":"Builds visual and audio components using animation software. \r\nUses design tools to evolve rapid prototypes of interactive systems and user interfaces.\r\nUses visual design tools and organic modelling techniques to create and animate virtual characters within a game or system design.","4":"Builds visual and audio components and integrates them into the system structure.\r\nUses design tools to evolve rapid prototypes and assess the viability of design concepts for interactive systems and user interfaces. \r\nUses complex visual design tools and organic modelling techniques to create and animate virtual characters within a game or system design.","5":"Manages iterations of level design and storytelling, documenting the overall flow and architecture of a game or similar system. \r\nDevelops conceptual structures into design blueprints to create high-level structures and runtime architectures for websites and virtual environments.\r\nOversees the integration of animations with game logic, physics and artificial intelligence systems.","6":"Provides overall creative direction in the conception and design of animation products such as games and simulations.\r\nEstablishes animation development strategies, pipelines and quality assurance processes. \r\nAdapts or develops new methods and organisational capabilities and drives adoption of, and adherence to, policies and standards."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ADEV"}},"Data and analytics":{"Data management":{"code":"DATM","description":"Developing and implementing plans, policies and practices that control, protect and optimise the value and governance of data assets.","levels":{"2":"Assists in implementing data management activities under close guidance and supervision.\r\nHelps create and maintain documentation of data management activities. \r\nHelps identify and report issues and discrepancies.","3":"Implements standard data management practices based on detailed organisational requirements.\r\nMonitors and maintains data quality through regular reviews and validation checks.    \r\nCommunicates the details of data management procedures to others, helping with their understanding and compliance.","4":"Devises and implements data governance and master data management processes for specific subsets of data. \r\nAssesses the integrity of data from multiple sources. \r\nAdvises on transformation of data between formats or media. Maintains and implements data handling procedures. \r\nEnables data availability, integrity and searchability through formal data and metadata structures and protection measures.","5":"Devises and implements data governance and master data management processes. \r\nDerives data management structures and metadata to support consistent data retrieval, integration, analysis, pattern recognition and interpretation across the organisation.\r\nIndependently validates external information from multiple sources.  Plans effective data storage, sharing and publishing practices within the organisation.\r\nIdentifies and addresses issues preventing optimal use of information assets. Provides expert advice to maximise data asset value, ensuring data quality and compliance.","6":"Leads the strategic direction for data management and data governance, establishing policies and frameworks that align with business and regulatory requirements. Derives an overall strategy of master data management that supports the development and secure operation of data and digital services. \r\nCreates organisational policies, standards and guidelines for data management, ensuring ethical principles are applied.\r\nPlans, establishes and manages processes for regular and consistent access to external data sources, ensuring their validation and integration."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DATM"},"Data modelling and design":{"code":"DTAN","description":"Developing models and diagrams to represent, communicate and manage data requirements and data assets.","levels":{"2":"Establishes, modifies or maintains simple data structures and associated components. \r\nUses specific data modelling and design techniques under guidance.","3":"Applies standard data modelling and design techniques based upon a detailed understanding of organisational requirements. \r\nEstablishes, modifies and maintains data structures and associated components. \r\nCommunicates and explain the details of data structures and components to others.","4":"Investigates enterprise data requirements where there is some complexity and ambiguity.  \r\nPlans data modelling and design activities, selecting appropriate techniques and levels of detail to meet objectives. \r\nProvides advice and guidance to others using the data structures and associated components.","5":"Sets standards for data modelling and design tools and techniques, advises on their application and ensures compliance. \r\nManages the investigation of enterprise data requirements based on a detailed understanding of information requirements. \r\nCoordinates the application of analysis, design and modelling techniques to establish, modify or maintain data structures and their associated components. \r\nManages the iteration, review and maintenance of data requirements and data models."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DTAN"},"Database design":{"code":"DBDS","description":"Specifying, designing and maintaining mechanisms for storing and accessing data across various environments and platforms.","levels":{"2":"Assists in creating and documenting detailed database designs under routine supervision. \r\nFollows established procedures and guidelines. \r\nHelps create and maintain documentation.","3":"Interprets installation standards to meet project needs and produces database or data warehouse component specifications. \r\nDevelops physical database or data warehouse design elements, within set policies, to meet data requirements.","4":"Implements physical database designs to support transactional data requirements for performance and availability. \r\nDevelops and maintains specialist knowledge of database and data warehouse concepts, design principles, architectures, software and facilities. \r\nAssesses proposed changes to object/data structures and evaluates alternative options. \r\nImplements data warehouse designs that support business intelligence and data analytics.","5":"Provides specialist expertise in the design characteristics of database management systems or data warehouse products/services. \r\nProvides expert guidance in the selection, provision and use of database and data warehouse architectures, software and facilities. \r\nEnsures design policies optimise transactional data systems for performance and availability while meeting the needs of business intelligence and analytics platforms."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DBDS"},"Data analytics":{"code":"DAAN","description":"Enabling data-driven decision making by extracting, analysing and communicating insights from structured and unstructured data.","levels":{"2":"Assists in data preparation and analysis activities under direction. \r\nProcesses and validates data to support analytics. \r\nGenerates standard reports and insights using established tools and methods.","3":"Supports data analytics by gathering and preparing data from multiple sources. \r\nApplies analytical and statistical methods and software tools to analyse data and develop reports. \r\nAssists in identifying trends, patterns and insights that inform business decisions. \r\nCollaborates with team members to refine analysis techniques and maintain data quality.","4":"Conducts end-to-end data analysis, defining data requirements and ensuring data integrity. \r\nApplies advanced analytical and statistical techniques to extract meaningful insights and develop predictive models.\r\nCommunicates complex findings to stakeholders in an understandable manner. \r\nContributes to the development of data analytics processes and standards. Identifies opportunities for improving data analytics practices.","5":"Manages data analytics activities, establishing frameworks and methodologies aligned with business objectives and data governance policies. \r\nLeads the implementation of data analytics solutions. Translates business needs into analytics requirements and identifies data-driven solutions. \r\nGuides the selection and application of advanced analytical techniques. \r\nCommunicates insights and recommendations to senior stakeholders, influencing strategic decisions.","6":"Develops organisational strategies and roadmaps for data analytics. \r\nSets policies, standards and recommended practices for the use of data and data analytical techniques.\r\nLeads initiatives to build data analytics capabilities and develop a data-driven culture.\r\nOversees the delivery of analytics projects and programmes. Promotes the ethical use of data and data analytics.","7":"Directs the creation and review of a cross-functional, enterprise-wide approach and culture for generating value from data analytics and data science. \r\nDrives the identification, evaluation and adoption of data analytics and data science capabilities to transform organisational performance. Leads the provision of the organisation’s data analytics and data science capabilities.\r\nEnsures the strategic application of data analytics and data science is embedded in the governance and leadership of the organisation. \r\nAligns business strategies, enterprise transformation and data analytics and data science strategies."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DAAN"},"Data science":{"code":"DATS","description":"Applying mathematics, statistics, data mining and predictive modelling techniques to gain insights, predict behaviours and generate value from data.","levels":{"2":"Under routine supervision, applies specified data science techniques to data.\r\nAnalyses and reports findings and addresses simple issues, using algorithms included within standard software frameworks and tools.","3":"Applies standard data science techniques to new problems and datasets using specialised programming techniques.\r\nIdentifies and selects appropriate data sources and prepares data to be used by data science models.\r\nEvaluates the outcomes and performance of data science models. Identifies and implements opportunities to train and improve models and the data they use. \r\nPublishes and reports on model outputs to meet customer needs and conform to agreed standards.","4":"Investigates problems and datasets to assess the usefulness of data science solutions. \r\nApplies diverse data science techniques and specialised programming languages. Understands and applies rules and guidelines specific to the industry and business, and anticipates risks and other implications of modelling.\r\nSelects, acquires and integrates data for analysis. Formulates hypotheses and evaluates data science models. Advises on the effectiveness of specific techniques based on analysis findings and research. \r\nContributes to the development, evaluation, monitoring and deployment of data science solutions.","5":"Plans, coordinates and drives all stages of the development of data science solutions. \r\nProvides expert advice to evaluate the problems to be solved and the need for data science solutions. Identifies and justifies what data sources to use or acquire. \r\nSpecifies and applies appropriate data science techniques and specialised programming languages.\r\nCritically reviews the benefits and value of data science techniques and tools and recommends improvements. Contributes to developing policy, standards and guidelines for developing, evaluating, monitoring and deploying data science solutions.","6":"Champions and leads the introduction and use of data science to drive innovation and business value. \r\nDevelops and drives adoption of and adherence to organisational policies, standards, guidelines and methods for data science.\r\nSets direction and leads in the introduction and use of data science techniques, methodologies and tools. Leads the development of organisational capabilities for data science. \r\nPlans and leads strategic, large and complex data science initiatives to generate insights, create value and drive decision-making."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DATS"},"Machine learning":{"code":"MLNG","description":"Developing systems that learn from data and experience, improving performance, accuracy and adaptability in dynamic environments.","levels":{"2":"Assists in data preparation, model training and evaluation tasks under routine supervision. \r\nUses standard machine learning frameworks and tools to develop basic models for well-defined problems. \r\nDocuments results and contributes to maintaining machine learning solutions.","3":"Applies established machine learning techniques and algorithms to solve business problems. \r\nSelects and prepares data for model training and evaluation. \r\nTrains, optimises and validates machine learning models using standard tools and frameworks. \r\nDeploys models into production and monitors their performance. Communicates results and limitations to stakeholders.","4":"Assesses the suitability of machine learning and designs and develops solutions for a range of business problems.\r\nSelects and applies appropriate techniques and algorithms based on data characteristics and business requirements. Provides guidance to others.\r\nEngineers features and optimises model performance. Implements algorithms and contributes to development, evaluation, monitoring and deployment. Applies industry-specific rules and guidelines, anticipating risks and implications.\r\nCollaborates with cross-functional teams to integrate machine learning models into production systems. Conducts in-depth performance analysis and troubleshoots issues.","5":"Leads the development and implementation of machine learning solutions for complex, high-impact business problems.\r\nArchitects end-to-end machine learning pipelines and systems, incorporating MLOps practices. Evaluates and selects tools, frameworks and infrastructure for machine learning projects. \r\nEstablishes practices and standards for machine learning development and operations. Provides expert advice and guidance on machine learning techniques and applications.\r\nCollaborates with stakeholders to align machine learning initiatives with organisational goals.","6":"Sets the strategic direction and roadmap for machine learning adoption and innovation within the organisation. \r\nEstablishes governance frameworks and recommended protocols for responsible, ethical and sustainable development and use of machine learning. \r\nLeads the development of organisational capabilities, policies, standards and guidelines in machine learning. \r\nCollaborates with senior stakeholders to identify high-impact opportunities for machine learning and drives their implementation. Follows research and industry trends and integrates them into organisational practices."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/MLNG"},"Business intelligence":{"code":"BINT","description":"Developing, producing and delivering regular and one-off management information to provide insights and aid decision-making.","levels":{"2":"Assists with the creation of regular business intelligence reports using standard tools. \r\nSupports data preparation from existing sources.","3":"Sources and prepares data for analysis and performs standard business intelligence analysis activities. \r\nChecks the integrity and validity of data sources. Creates and delivers standard reports in accordance with stakeholder needs and conforming to agreed standards. \r\nInvestigates the need for new or revised business intelligence analysis.  \r\nContributes to the recommendation of improvements. Engages with stakeholders under direction.","4":"Supports business intelligence needs of specific management or governance processes or operational areas. \r\nInvestigates the need for business intelligence reporting and analysis where there is some complexity and ambiguity. \r\nSelects and applies non-standard business intelligence tools and techniques to provide insights and aid decision-making. Selects, acquires and integrates data for analysis and verifies the data's quality and integrity.\r\nIdentifies opportunities to digitise and streamline operational data handling and optimise business intelligence capabilities.","5":"Plans and manages business intelligence activities. \r\nEnsures business intelligence processes, procedures and practices are robust, efficient and fit for purpose, focusing on automation, key controls and data quality. Advises on the available standards, procedures, methods, tools and techniques.\r\nManages reviews of the benefits and value of business intelligence techniques and tools and recommends improvements. \r\nContributes to the development of analytics policies, standards and guidelines."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/BINT"},"Data engineering":{"code":"DENG","description":"Designing, building, operationalising, securing and monitoring data pipelines, stores and real-time processing systems for scalable and reliable data management.","levels":{"2":"Assists in developing and implementing data pipelines and data stores. \r\nPerforms administrative tasks to provide data accessibility, retrievability, security and protection.\r\nSupports the monitoring of data pipeline operations, identifying issues and escalating as needed. \r\nParticipates in data migration and conversion tasks under routine supervision.","3":"Follows standard approaches and established design patterns to create and implement simple data pipelines and data stores to acquire and prepare data. \r\nApplies data engineering standards and tools to create and maintain data pipelines and perform extract, transform and load (ETL) processes, incorporating security and data integrity practices.\r\nContributes to data migration and conversion projects, ensuring data integrity and consistency.\r\nConducts routine data quality checks and remediation.","4":"Designs, implements and maintains complex data engineering solutions to acquire and prepare data. \r\nCreates and maintains data pipelines to connect data across data stores, applications and organisations.  Builds in compliance with data governance and security standards.\r\nSupports the development of continuous integration and deployment practices.  Monitors and optimises pipeline performance and scalability. \r\nConducts complex data quality checking and remediation. Leads data migration and data conversion activities.","5":"Plans and drives the development of data engineering solutions, balancing functional and non-functional requirements. \r\nMonitors application of data standards, architectures and security, ensuring compliance and scalability.\r\nDevelops and promotes continuous integration, deployment and monitoring practices.\r\nContributes to organisational policies, standards and guidelines for data engineering.","6":"Leads the selection and development of data engineering methods, tools and techniques. \r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for the development and secure operation of data services and products. \r\nEnsures adherence to technical strategies and architectures. \r\nPlans and leads data engineering for strategic, high-impact, large and complex programmes ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and industry practices."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DENG"},"Data visualisation":{"code":"VISL","description":"Facilitating understanding of data by displaying concepts, ideas and facts using graphical representations.","levels":{"2":"Creates standard data visuals using established products, tools and techniques, under routine supervision.\r\nAssists in updating and refining existing data visualisations to maintain effective representation of concepts, ideas and facts.","3":"Uses visualisation products, as guided, to design and create data visuals. \r\nSelects appropriate visualisation techniques from the options available. \r\nEngages with the target user to prototype and refine specified visualisations.\r\nAssists in developing narratives around data sets to support understanding and decision-making.","4":"Applies a variety of visualisation techniques and designs the content and appearance of data visuals. \r\nOperationalises and automates activities for efficient and timely production of data visuals. \r\nSelects appropriate visualisation approaches from a range of applicable options. Develops narratives around data sets to guide decision-making processes and enhance understanding of key insights.\r\nContributes to exploration and experimentation in data visualisation.","5":"Leads exploration of new approaches for data visualisation. Establishes the purpose and parameters of the data visualisation. \r\nOversees the use of data visualisation tools and techniques. Communicates results using appropriate methods for the target audience.\r\nAdvises on the use of data visualisation approaches for different purposes and contexts to satisfy requirements.  Develops plans to meet user needs.\r\nCollaborates with stakeholders to identify key insights and create compelling narratives that effectively communicate the story behind the data to drive decision-making processes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/VISL"}},"User centred design":{"User research":{"code":"URCH","description":"Identifying users' behaviours, needs and motivations using observational research methods.","levels":{"2":"Assists with user research tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the collection and documentation of user research.\r\nHelps organise and share the outcomes of user research activities.\r\nParticipates in basic user-centred design activities as directed.","3":"Applies standard methods to support user research initiatives.\r\nEngages effectively with users and customer representatives to generate high-quality research. \r\nDocuments and shares the outcomes of user research.\r\nContributes to research design and analysis tasks under guidance.","4":"Conducts generative research for the development of systems, products, services or devices. \r\nPlans own user research activities. Facilitates input from users and stakeholders. \r\nIdentifies appropriate user research methods for specific questions and contexts. \r\nCollects and analyses user research data. Supports synthesis of research and the creation of insights, reports and presentations.","5":"Plans and drives user research activities providing expert advice and guidance to support the adoption of agreed approaches. \r\nSelects and implements appropriate methods for engaging users in generative research activities.\r\nLeads the collection and analysis of user research data. Synthesises research, develops insights and presents conclusions to inform decision-making and drive actions. \r\nLeads complex user research initiatives and identifies emerging user needs and trends. Contributes to the development of organisational methods and standards for user research.","6":"Sets the overall vision and direction for user research activities.\r\nChampions user-centred design and secures organisational commitment to the significant involvement of users in research. \r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for user research. \r\nDevelops or sources organisational resources and capabilities to facilitate the adoption and exploitation of user research. Collaborates with internal and external partners to facilitate effective user research."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/URCH"},"Customer experience":{"code":"CEXP","description":"Ensuring the delivery of high-quality interactions and experiences that meet customer expectations across all touchpoints and channels.","levels":{"2":"Assists in the creation of customer journey maps and identifies key touchpoints for improvement.\r\nFollows established procedures to document customer feedback and support the implementation of minor improvements.","3":"Analyses research to gather detailed insights into customer needs and preferences. \r\nUses appropriate tools and methods for data collection. Participates in the design and optimisation of customer journeys. \r\nCollaborates with team members to implement customer experience improvements. \r\nDocuments findings and supports the analysis process.","4":"Uses customer research findings to gain a comprehensive understanding of customer needs and expectations.\r\nEnables the creation of visual representations of customer journeys to enhance cross-functional collaboration. Designs and refines customer journeys, working with cross-functional teams to enhance touchpoints and interactions. \r\nDevelops and implements designs to improve customer experience. Recommends and applies appropriate technologies and segmentation insights to enhance customer experiences.\r\nMonitors metrics and feedback to assess effectiveness and drive continuous improvement.","5":"Plans and oversees customer experience initiatives. \r\nEnsures alignment with business goals and customer expectations.\r\nEstablishes frameworks for monitoring and measuring customer experience. Uses data-driven insights to guide improvements.\r\nEnsures customer experience designs leverage customer insights and emerging technologies for personalised experiences. Works with senior stakeholders to develop and implement customer experience strategies. Drives collaboration across teams to ensure a consistent experience.","6":"Champions customer experience at an organisational level. \r\nLeads strategic initiatives to enhance customer experience, including the evaluation and adoption of innovative technologies and approaches. Aligns efforts with business objectives and customer needs.\r\nMonitors industry trends and innovations in customer experience. \r\nDevelops policies and standards to guide customer experience practices. Ensures adoption of good practices and continuous improvement within the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/CEXP"},"Accessibility and inclusion":{"code":"ACIN","description":"Driving accessibility and inclusion in services and products.","levels":{"2":"Assists with basic accessibility testing and gathering information for accessibility reviews. \r\nSupports team members in executing predefined accessibility tests. \r\nDocuments test results and contributes to accessibility audit reports.","3":"Analyses accessibility requirements and technical information. \r\nDesigns and executes accessibility tests under direction. Reports findings in a structured way and makes initial recommendations for compliance. \r\nSupports accessibility reviews and audits.\r\nEscalates complex issues to senior colleagues.","4":"Engages with stakeholders to explain accessibility factors. Influences designs to improve accessibility. \r\nProvides detailed accessibility analysis to inform decisions throughout the product or service lifecycle.\r\nPlans and manages accessibility testing to meet agreed standards. \r\nEvaluates compliance with accessibility regulations. Assesses risks based on test outcomes.","5":"Leads accessibility governance and assurance activities. \r\nInterprets complex systems to identify opportunities for improved accessibility. Provides expert advice to drive accessibility compliance across products, services and projects. \r\nDefines organisational accessibility testing approaches, aligned with regulations and standards. \r\nPromotes awareness of accessibility and inclusion principles.","6":"Sets the organisation's strategic direction for accessibility and inclusion in products and services. \r\nDefines and oversees governance processes to ensure compliance. Leads the development of accessibility policies, standards and guidelines. \r\nEngages with industry bodies and experts to develop and implement good working practices.\r\nDrives a culture of proactive accessibility consideration in design and development. Ensures adequate resources and skills for accessibility assurance."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ACIN"},"User experience analysis":{"code":"UNAN","description":"Understanding the context of use for systems, products and services and specifying user experience requirements and design goals.","levels":{"2":"Assists with user experience analysis tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the collection and documentation of user requirements.\r\nHelps organise and structure user experience data for analysis.","3":"Applies standard techniques and tools for developing user stories and eliciting user experience requirements. \r\nOrganises and structures user experience analysis. \r\nWorks with stakeholders to prioritise requirements and resolve conflicts.","4":"Selects appropriate techniques and tools to develop user stories and elicit user experience requirements in complex situations. \r\nIdentifies and describes the design goals for systems, products, services and devices. \r\nIdentifies the roles of affected stakeholder groups. Resolves potential conflicts between differing user requirements. \r\nSpecifies measurable criteria for the required usability and accessibility of systems, products, services and devices.","5":"Determines the approaches to be used for user experience analysis. \r\nPlans and manages user experience and accessibility analysis activities. \r\nProvides expert advice and guidance to support the adoption and adaptation of agreed approaches.  \r\nDevelops user experience tools, techniques and standards as part of the organisation's framework for user-centred design"},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/UNAN"},"User experience design":{"code":"HCEV","description":"Producing design concepts and prototypes for user interactions and experiences of a product, system or service.","levels":{"2":"Assists in creating user experience elements under routine supervision. \r\nFollows established procedures and guidelines. \r\nHelps create and maintain documentation.","3":"Applies standard techniques and tools for designing user interactions with and experiences of selected system, product or service components. \r\nReviews design goals and agreed security, usability and accessibility requirements. Creates design artefacts to communicate ideas. \r\nContributes to overall user experience design as part of a team.\r\nAssists in evaluating design options and trade-offs. Considers and applies visual design and branding guidelines consistently when appropriate.","4":"Selects appropriate tools, methods and design patterns to design user interactions with and experiences of a product, system or service.\r\nTranslates concepts into outputs and prototypes for user feedback and evaluation.\r\nEvaluates alternative design options and recommends designs taking into account performance, security, usability and accessibility requirements. \r\nConsiders and integrates appropriate visual design and branding elements in user experience designs.","5":"Plans and drives user experience design activities.\r\nProvides expert advice and guidance to support the adoption of agreed approaches. Determines the approaches to be used to design user experiences. \r\nUses iterative approaches to incorporate user feedback or evaluation rapidly into designs. \r\nEnsures appropriate consideration and integration of visual design and branding elements into user experience design.","6":"Obtains organisational commitment to strategies to deliver required user experience, usability, accessibility and security. \r\nDefines organisational policies, standards and techniques for user experience design. \r\nPlans and leads user experience design activities for strategic, large or complex programmes.\r\nPromotes the value of user-centred design across the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/HCEV"},"User experience evaluation":{"code":"USEV","description":"Validating systems, products or services against user experience goals, metrics and targets.","levels":{"2":"Assists in preparing and operating the environment, facilities and tools needed to evaluate systems, products, services or devices. \r\nAssists in the collection of feedback on prototypes and designs from users and others.","3":"Evaluates design options and prototypes to obtain user feedback on requirements of developing systems, products, services or devices.\r\nTests the usability and accessibility of components and alternative designs. Administers a range of evaluations, recording data and feedback. Analyses evaluation data and recommends actions. Identifies areas for future user research.\r\nChecks systems, products, services or devices for adherence to applicable standards, guidelines, style guides and legislation. \r\nEvaluates the usability of existing or competitor systems to provide benchmark values and as input to design.","4":"Selects appropriate tools and techniques to evaluate user experiences of systems, products,  services or devices.\r\nValidates that security, usability and accessibility requirements have been met. \r\nChecks operational systems, products, services or devices for changes in usability and accessibility needs. \r\nInterprets and presents results of evaluations, prioritises issues and reports on remedial actions. Collates input for future user research.","5":"Manages user experience evaluation of systems, products, services or devices.\r\nAssures that the security, usability and accessibility requirements are met and required practices have been followed.\r\nAdvises on what to evaluate, type of evaluation to use and the extent of user involvement required. Works iteratively with design teams to ensure feedback from the evaluation is understood and acted upon. \r\nAdvises on the achievement of required usability and accessibility levels of specific designs or prototypes. Prioritises input for future user research.","6":"Champions high standards in user interaction with the organisation’s systems, products and services including involvement of users in evaluation activities. \r\nSpecifies standards and methods for security, usability and accessibility and ensure this is addressed in future designs. \r\nDevelops or sources resources and capabilities to conduct effective user experience evaluation, including specialist user-centred facilities and communities of users. Leads the provision of input and resources for future user research.\r\nCollaborates with internal and external partners to facilitate an effective evaluation of systems, products and services."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/USEV"}},"Content management":{"Content design and authoring":{"code":"INCA","description":"Planning, designing and creating content that meets user-centred and organisational needs, encompassing textual information, graphical content and multimedia elements.","levels":{"1":"Contributes, under instruction, to the generation of content and the configuration of content items and files. \r\nExecutes pre-planned testing activities under supervision and records findings.","2":"Works with colleagues and stakeholders to understand audience needs and to assimilate source material. \r\nCreates draft content to meet the requirements of the audience as clearly, simply and quickly as possible. \r\nApplies guidelines and standards to moderate content from others, escalating where appropriate.","3":"Produces information artefacts that are accurate, current, relevant and easily understood by the intended audience. \r\nClarifies detailed content requirements with clients and representatives of the intended audience. \r\nDesigns, creates, controls and evaluates moderately complex subject matter. \r\nMakes informed decisions about the best way to present information to an audience. Applies moderation and editing processes to content supplied by others.","4":"Designs the content and appearance of complex information artefacts. \r\nControls, monitors and evaluates content to ensure quality, consistency and accessibility of messages and optimal use of chosen media. Understands and manages risks associated with publishing content.\r\nModerates content and ensures content can be re-purposed appropriately. \r\nReviews work of others and takes responsibility for ensuring appropriate publication.","5":"Provides overall editorial control across the team or teams of content designers and authors. \r\nAdvises on appropriate content formats and mediums. \r\nDevelops and maintains content plans showing how the identified audience needs will be met. \r\nOversees the review and approval of materials to enable requirements to be satisfied.","6":"Obtains organisational commitment to policies, standards and strategies to create required content. \r\nSpecifies design standards and methods to meet organisational objectives for content creation. \r\nPlans and leads content creation for strategic, large and complex programmes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/INCA"},"Content publishing":{"code":"ICPM","description":"Managing processes to collect, assemble and publish content across various channels to meet organisational and audience needs.","levels":{"1":"Contributes, under instruction, to publication support activities. \r\nSupports the collation of data. \r\nUses established publishing processes and procedures following appropriate guidelines.","2":"Uses technical publication concepts, tools, and methods to publish content following agreed procedures and guidelines. \r\nPrepares and formats content to meet the needs of the target audience and platform.\r\nObtains and analyses usage data and presents it effectively. \r\nApplies principles of usability and accessibility to published information.","3":"Coordinates content management processes and procedures to meet the needs of users. \r\nUses content publishing systems to manage published content across different channels. \r\nAssists in identifying and working with content creators.\r\nConsiders all legal issues related to publishing.","4":"Applies organisational guidelines and uses appropriate tools and techniques to provide publishing interfaces to new or existing platforms and applications. \r\nMaintains and updates content management processes and practices to meet the needs of users. Selects appropriate channels through which content should be published. \r\nCollaborates with and provides guidance to content creators. Provides advice to users and content authors to leverage the features of the relevant channels and tools used. \r\nIdentifies the legal implications associated with publishing.","5":"Plans and manages content publishing activities and assignments. \r\nDevelops standards, processes and practices for consistent content publishing across one or more platforms/channels. Advises on the approach and techniques to be used for content publishing. \r\nAdvises on approaches for content publishing and creator collaborations. Assures design of the overall content structure and style. \r\nEnsures publication processes comply with agreed policies and strategies and legal requirements.","6":"Obtains organisational commitment and resources to ensure the appropriate quality of material published by or on behalf of the organisation. \r\nDefines organisational policies, standards, processes and practices for content publishing, including creator partnerships. \r\nPlans and leads content publishing activities for strategic, large and complex programmes. \r\nEnsures policies are implemented and any legal issues related to publishing are adequately managed."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ICPM"},"Knowledge management":{"code":"KNOW","description":"Systematically capturing, developing and leveraging vital knowledge to create value and enhance organisational performance.","levels":{"2":"Maintains a knowledge management database. \r\nLeverages knowledge of a specialism to capture and classify content, taking expert advice when required.","3":"Maintains knowledge management systems and content to meet business needs.\r\nSupports others to enable them to complete knowledge management activities and form knowledge management habits. Supports changes to work practices to enable capture and use of knowledge.\r\nReports on the progress of knowledge management activities. \r\nConfigures and develops knowledge management systems and standards.","4":"Organises knowledge assets and oversees the lifecycle of identifying, capturing, classifying, storing and maintaining assets. \r\nFacilitates sharing, collaboration and communication of knowledge. Implements specific knowledge management initiatives.\r\nMonitors the  use and impact of knowledge. \r\nInterrogates existing knowledge content to identify issues, risks and opportunities.","5":"Develops and implements knowledge management processes, practices and behaviours. \r\nProvides advice, guidance and support to help people to adopt and embed knowledge management. Contributes to the definition of policies, standards and guidelines for knowledge management.\r\nEvaluates and selects knowledge management methods and tools. Promotes collaborative technologies, processes and behaviours to facilitate sharing of ideas and work-knowledge. \r\nShares ideas and examples of existing practices. Implements knowledge management at programme, project and team level.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for knowledge management. \r\nChampions and leads in the development of an organisational knowledge management approach. Shares different approaches for knowledge sharing across communities of practice, business units and networks.\r\nPromotes knowledge-sharing through operational business processes and systems. Monitors and evaluates knowledge-sharing initiatives. \r\nManages reviews of the benefits and value of knowledge management. Identifies and recommends improvements.","7":"Develops an organisation-wide knowledge management strategy and leads the creation of a knowledge management culture. \r\nEmbeds knowledge management across business units and develops strategic knowledge management capabilities. \r\nReinforces the importance of knowledge sharing by aligning individual and organisational objectives and rewards. \r\nIdentifies opportunities for strategic relationships or partnerships with customers, suppliers and partners."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/KNOW"},"Graphic design":{"code":"GRDN","description":"Creating and applying visual concepts to communicate ideas, enhance aesthetics and improve user experience across digital and print media.","levels":{"1":"Creates simple visual elements under supervision. \r\nApplies basic design principles. Uses design software to produce simple graphics. Supports the maintenance of design assets and libraries. \r\nParticipates in design reviews and incorporates feedback. \r\nHelps with routine tasks such as resizing images, preparing files for print or digital use and organising design assets.","2":"Assists the creation of visual elements and layouts for digital and print media under routine supervision. \r\nApplies design principles to produce consistent and effective visuals. Uses design software to create and edit graphics, preparing mock-ups and prototypes. Conforms to brand guidelines and assignment specifications. \r\nResponds to feedback and research findings to revise designs. \r\nParticipates in research activities to inform design decisions and understand user needs.","3":"Designs visual concepts and layouts for a range of media. \r\nWorks with stakeholders to understand design requirements. \r\nProduces high-quality graphics and visual elements using design software. Develops prototypes and iterates based on feedback. Applies brand guidelines and assignment specifications. \r\nContributes to the development of design standards and recognised good practices.","4":"Designs visual concepts and comprehensive designs for complex assignments.\r\nEngages with clients and stakeholders to elicit and document design requirements and goals. Manages design assignments from concept to final delivery. \r\nCreates detailed design mock-ups and interactive prototypes. Reviews and approves design work, ensuring alignment with brand standards and evidence-based practices. \r\nDevelops and implements design processes, guidelines and recognised good practices to enhance design quality and effectiveness.","5":"Manages graphic design activities for the organisation, ensuring designs are research-driven and aligned with business objectives. \r\nOversees multiple design initiatives, ensuring high-quality, consistent output. Engages with senior stakeholders to align design goals with business objectives and user needs. \r\nDevelops research-informed visual solutions to strengthen brand identity and user experience. \r\nLeads the creation and adoption of design standards, processes and recognised good practices. Provides authoritative advice on visual design trends and evidence-based practices, ensuring designs meet all required specifications and brand guidelines."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/GRDN"}},"Computational science":{"Scientific modelling":{"code":"SCMO","description":"Applying computer simulation and other forms of computation to solve real-world problems in scientific disciplines.","levels":{"4":"Analyses the real-world problem, then selects appropriate physical and mathematical models to approximate the phenomena under investigation. \r\nApplies relevant mathematical techniques to simulate the problem. \r\nConducts quality and performance assessments on computational model outputs and makes improvements to the models. \r\nProvides advice and guidance to the users of these models.","5":"Investigates real-world problems to assess whether existing scientific models provide effective solutions.\r\nCreates new mathematical representations of the underlying science that can be implemented in a computational model. Applies advanced programming techniques to implement scientific models and apply these for problem-solving. \r\nAnalyses the functioning of existing computational models to improve accuracy and performance. \r\nCommunicates limitations such as uncertainty and systematic errors. Ensures appropriate usage of computational models.","6":"Initiates the creation, testing, improvement and application of mathematical model frameworks representing real-world systems and scientific theories. \r\nSets standards and approaches for the application of scientific modelling. \r\nOversees the representation of science and mathematics principles and theories in models to ensure appropriate, consistent and effective usage. \r\nDevelops or introduces new mathematical techniques where necessary.","7":"Directs the creation and review of a cross-functional, enterprise-wide approach and culture for scientific modelling. \r\nLeads the development of the organisation’s scientific modelling capabilities and champions its use in solving real-world problems."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SCMO"},"Numerical analysis":{"code":"NUAN","description":"Creating, analysing, implementing, testing and improving algorithms for numerically solving mathematical problems.","levels":{"4":"Creates moderately complex algorithms using a range of mathematical techniques and with sensitivity to the limitations of the techniques. \r\nUses sophisticated scientific computing and visualisation environments. \r\nAssesses the stability, accuracy and efficiency of algorithms and makes or recommends improvements to them. \r\nIterates and improves models using feedback from experts as appropriate.","5":"Creates, tests and improves complex algorithms that numerically solve real-world problems. \r\nDevelops mathematical and computational techniques to assist with numerical analysis. \r\nCommunicates limitations such as uncertainty and systematic errors. \r\nReviews algorithms for their conformance to design and performance standards.","6":"Initiates the creation, testing, improvement and application of numerical algorithms that solve real-world mathematical problems. \r\nSets standards and strategies for the application of numerical analysis. \r\nLeads the implementation of numerical analyses capabilities to ensure appropriate, consistent and effective usage across the organisation.","7":"Directs the creation and review of a cross-functional, enterprise-wide approach and culture for numerical analysis. \r\nLeads the development of the organisation’s numerical analysis capabilities and champions its use in solving real-world problems."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/NUAN"},"High-performance computing":{"code":"HPCC","description":"Using advanced computer systems and special programming techniques to solve complex computational problems.","levels":{"4":"Develops moderately complex solutions that use high-performance computing environments to address real-world problems. \r\nApplies a range of high-performance computing techniques with sensitivity to the limitations of the techniques. Uses input and feedback from experts as appropriate. \r\nAnalyses the complexity, scalability and performance of algorithms, including massively parallel implementations, and makes or recommends improvements.","5":"Creates, tests and improves complex high-performance computing solutions to address real-world problems. \r\nCollaborates with stakeholders to ensure high-performance computing solutions are effective at addressing their problems. \r\nGuides development teams in the appropriate and effective use of high-performance computing resources","6":"Initiates the creation, testing, improvement and application of algorithms that solve real-world problems in high-performance computing environments. \r\nSets standards and strategies for the use of high-performance computing. \r\nLeads the implementation of organisational capabilities to ensure appropriate, consistent and effective usage of high-performance computing.","7":"Directs the creation and review of a cross-functional, enterprise-wide approach and culture for high-performance computing.\r\nLeads the development of the organisation’s high-performance computing capabilities and champions its use in solving real-world problems."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/HPCC"}}},"Delivery and operation":{"Technology management":{"Technology service management":{"code":"ITMG","description":"Managing the provision of technology-based services to meet defined organisational needs.","levels":{"5":"Takes responsibility for managing the design, procurement, installation, upgrading, operation, control, maintenance and effective use of specific technology services.\r\nLeads service delivery, ensuring agreed service levels, security requirements and other quality standards are met. Ensures adherence to relevant policies and procedures.\r\nEnsures processes, procedures and practices are aligned across teams and providers to operate effectively and efficiently. \r\nMonitors technology services performance. Provides appropriate status and other reports to managers and senior users.","6":"Manages and allocates resources for budgeting, estimating, planning, developing and delivering a portfolio of technology services and systems. \r\nEngages and influences stakeholders to ensure services are developed and managed to meet agreed service levels, security requirements and quality standards. \r\nPlans and implements processes, procedures, tools and practices for monitoring and managing the performance of technology services. \r\nAligns the contribution of specified systems and services with organisational and financial goals. Recommends sourcing options, whether in-house, outsourced, or a combination, ensuring optimal service delivery.","7":"Sets the strategic direction for managing the technology services portfolio, ensuring alignment with organisational strategies, objectives and emerging opportunities. \r\nPromotes and assesses technology's potential to drive change, evaluating feasibility and impact.\r\nAuthorises the establishment and integration of new or modified service delivery capabilities, balancing in-house and outsourced options. Oversees resource allocation for planning, developing and delivering technical services and products.\r\nMaintains a strategic overview of how technology services contribute to organisational success."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ITMG"},"Application support":{"code":"ASUP","description":"Delivering management, technical and administrative services to support and maintain live applications.","levels":{"2":"Assists with specified maintenance procedures. \r\nAssists in the investigation and resolution of issues relating to applications.","3":"Follows agreed procedures to identify and resolve issues with applications. \r\nUses application management software and tools to collect agreed performance statistics. \r\nCarries out agreed applications maintenance tasks.","4":"Maintains application support processes and checks that all requests for support are dealt with according to agreed procedures. \r\nUses application management software and tools to investigate issues, collect performance statistics and create reports.","5":"Ensures all requests for support are dealt with according to set standards and procedures. \r\nDrafts and maintains procedures and documentation for applications support, incorporating security considerations.\r\nManages application enhancements to improve business performance. \r\nAdvises on application security, licensing, upgrades, backups and disaster recovery needs."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ASUP"},"Infrastructure operations":{"code":"ITOP","description":"Provisioning, deploying, configuring, operating and optimising technology infrastructure across physical, virtual and cloud-based environments.","levels":{"1":"Supports routine infrastructure tasks and basic troubleshooting under close supervision.\r\nMonitors infrastructure health and reports on component status to support operational continuity.","2":"Executes operational procedures, runs automation scripts and performs routine maintenance, installation and monitoring of infrastructure components. \r\nAdjusts automation tasks as instructed to meet operational standards.\r\nReports on infrastructure performance and security events, addressing issues directly when possible or escalating them to others for resolution.","3":"Provisions, deploys and configures infrastructure services and components.\r\nMonitors infrastructure for load, performance and security events. Reports metrics and resolves operational issues.\r\nExecutes standard operational procedures, including backups and restorations. \r\nCarries out agreed system software maintenance tasks. Automates routine system administration tasks to specifications using standard tools and basic scripting.","4":"Applies technical expertise to maintain and optimise technology infrastructure, executing updates and employing automation tools. Configures tools and/or creates scripts to automate infrastructure tasks. \r\nMaintains operational procedures and checks that they are followed, including adherence to security policies. Uses infrastructure management tools to monitor load, performance, and security metrics.\r\nInvestigates and enables the resolution of operational and security-related issues. Provides reports and proposals for improvement to stakeholders.\r\nContributes to the planning and implementation of infrastructure maintenance and updates. Implements agreed infrastructure changes and maintenance routines.","5":"Provides technical leadership to optimise the performance of the technology infrastructure. \r\nDrives the adoption of tools and automated processes for effective operational management and delivery.\r\nOversees the planning, installation, maintenance and acceptance of new and updated infrastructure components and infrastructure-based services. Aligns to service expectations, security requirements and other quality standards. \r\nEnsures operational procedures and documentation are current and effective, tracks and addresses operational issues and reports to stakeholders."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ITOP"},"System software administration":{"code":"SYSP","description":"Installing, managing and maintaining operating systems, data management, office automation and utility software across various infrastructure environments.","levels":{"2":"Assists with system software administration tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the installation and configuration of system software.\r\nHelps monitor system performance and resource usage.\r\nAssists in documenting system software settings and updates.","3":"Monitors operational systems for resource usage and failure rates, to inform and facilitate system software tuning.\r\nApplies system software settings to optimise performance, enabling maximum throughput and efficient resource utilisation.\r\nInstalls and tests new versions of system software. \r\nAssists in creating software implementation procedures, including  fallback contingency plans.","4":"Monitors system software metrics and adjusts configurations for optimum availability and performance.\r\nApplies technical expertise to investigates and resolve complex system software issues, requesting action from supplier if required. \r\nAnalyses system software updates and determines which ones require actions. \r\nDevelops comprehensive software implementation procedures with robust contingency plans.","5":"Ensures system software is provisioned and configured to support the achievement of service objectives. \r\nDevelops and maintains diagnostic tools and processes for troubleshooting and performance analysis. \r\nEvaluates new system software and recommends adoption if appropriate. Plans the provisioning and testing of new versions of system software. \r\nEnsures operational procedures and diagnostics for system software are current, accessible and well understood. Investigates and coordinates the resolution of potential and actual service problems."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SYSP"},"Network support":{"code":"NTAS","description":"Providing maintenance and support services for communications networks.","levels":{"1":"Supports routine network tasks under close supervision. \r\nMonitors basic network health and reports on the status of network components. \r\nAssists with straightforward troubleshooting and follows established procedures to maintain operational continuity. \r\nEscalates issues as necessary to higher levels of support","2":"Assists in the operational configuration of network components and the investigation and resolution of network problems.\r\nAssists in the implementation of basic scripting and automation tools to streamline network support tasks.\r\nAssists with specified maintenance procedures and follows established safety, security and quality standards.\r\nProvides first-line support and guidance to network users, escalating issues as necessary.","3":"Executes agreed network maintenance tasks and specified operational configuration of network components.\r\nIdentifies and diagnoses network problems/faults using the required troubleshooting tools and network management software, including addressing security-related issues.\r\nImplements and maintains scripts, automation tools and orchestration platforms to optimise network support processes.\r\nCollects performance and traffic statistics and collaborates with others to ensure network effectiveness and resolve issues","4":"Applies technical expertise to maintain and optimise network infrastructure, executing updates and employing automation tools. \r\nUses network management tools to monitor load, performance, and security statistics. Investigates and enables the resolution of network-related operational and security issues.  Configures tools and/or creates scripts to automate network tasks. \r\nMaintains operational procedures and checks that they are followed. Provides reports and proposals for improvement to stakeholders.\r\nContributes to the planning and implementation of network maintenance, updates, and security enhancements. Implements agreed network changes and maintenance routines.","5":"Leads network operations to optimise performance. \r\nOversees planning, installation, maintenance, and acceptance of network components and services, aligning with service expectations, standards, and security requirements.\r\nEnsures network support requests are handled according to set standards and procedures.\r\nDrives the adoption of tools and processes for effective operational management and delivery, ensuring security considerations are addressed. Maintains procedures and documentation. Investigates and resolves complex network problems. Tracks operational issues and reports to stakeholders."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/NTAS"},"Systems installation and removal":{"code":"HSIN","description":"Installing and testing, or decommissioning and removing, systems or system components.","levels":{"1":"Follows agreed procedures to perform simple installations, replace consumable items and check the correct working of installations. \r\nDocuments and reports on work done.","2":"Installs or removes system components using supplied installation instructions and tools.  \r\nConducts standard tests and contributes to investigations of problems and faults.\r\nConfirms the correct working of installations. \r\nDocuments results in accordance with agreed procedures.","3":"Installs or removes hardware and/or software, using supplied installation instructions and tools, including handover to the client. \r\nUses standard procedures and diagnostic tools to test installations, correct problems, and document results. \r\nRecords details of all components that have been installed and removed. Assists users and follows agreed procedures for further help or escalation.\r\nContributes to the development of installation procedures and standards.","4":"Undertakes or supervises complex installations and de-installations of systems or components, including handover to the client. \r\nDevelops procedures and standards for installation and handover to maintain and improve the installation service. \r\nSchedules installation work around client priorities and resource availability.  \r\nEnsures adherence to established safety and quality procedures.","5":"Takes responsibility for installation and/or decommissioning projects. \r\nProvides effective team leadership, including information flow to and from the customer during project work. \r\nDevelops and implements quality plans and method statements. \r\nMonitors the effectiveness of installations and ensures appropriate recommendations for change are made."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/HSIN"},"Configuration management":{"code":"CFMG","description":"Planning, identifying, controlling, accounting for and auditing of configuration items (CIs) and their interrelationships.","levels":{"2":"Applies tools, techniques and processes to administer, track, log, report on and correct configuration items, components and changes. \r\nAssists with audits to check the accuracy of the information and undertakes any necessary corrective action under direction.","3":"Applies tools, techniques and processes to track, log and correct information related to configuration items. \r\nVerifies and approves changes to protect assets and components from unauthorised change, diversion and inappropriate use. \r\nSupports user compliance with identification standards for object types, environments, processes, lifecycles, documentation, versions, formats, baselines, releases and templates. \r\nPerforms audits to check the accuracy of the information and undertakes any necessary corrective action under direction.","4":"Proposes and agrees the configuration items (CIs) to be uniquely identified with naming conventions. \r\nPuts in place operational processes for secure configuration, classification and management of CIs and for verifying and auditing  configuration records. \r\nDevelops, configures and maintains tools (including automation) to identify, track, log and maintain accurate, complete and current information. \r\nReports on the status of configuration management. Identifies problems and issues and recommend corrective actions.","5":"Plans the capture and management of CIs and related information. \r\nAgrees scope of configuration management processes and the configuration items (CIs) and related information to be controlled. \r\nIdentifies, evaluates and manages the adoption of appropriate tools, techniques and processes (including automation) for configuration management. \r\nContributes to the development of configuration management strategies, policies, standards and guidelines.","6":"Develops configuration management strategies, policies, standards and guidelines. \r\nChampions the importance and value of configuration management and develops new methods and organisational capabilities (including automation) for configuration management. \r\nProvides resources to drive adoption of, and adherence to, policies and standards. \r\nMeasures and monitors adherence to standards and ensures consistent execution of the process across the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/CFMG"},"Release management":{"code":"RELM","description":"Managing the release of new and updated services into production, ensuring alignment with business objectives and compliance standards.","levels":{"2":"Assists with release management tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the collection of data and information for release planning and scheduling.\r\nAssists in the preparation of release materials and resources. Helps document and maintain records of release activities.\r\nParticipates in basic testing and quality assurance tasks and issue resolution.","3":"Supports the planning and scheduling of releases.\r\nCoordinates release activities with relevant teams. Follows defined release processes and procedures.\r\nParticipates in testing and quality assurance activities to ensure releases meet standards. Identifies and resolves issues related to the release process.\r\nDocuments and reports on release outcomes and communicates findings to stakeholders.","4":"Plans and schedules releases in line with business requirements and objectives.\r\nCoordinates release activities across multiple teams and stakeholders. Manages the release lifecycle, ensuring timely and quality deliverables.\r\nEnsures releases meet defined quality, security and compliance standards.\r\nCommunicates release plans, progress and outcomes to stakeholders. Conducts post-release reviews and identifies areas for improvement.","5":"Develops and maintains release approaches, processes and automation tools.\r\nOversees the planning and scheduling of complex, large-scale releases. Coordinates release activities across multiple projects and programmes.\r\nEnsures release processes and procedures are applied and that releases can be rolled back as needed. \r\nCommunicates release approaches and outcomes. Conducts post-release analysis and drives continuous improvement.","6":"Defines organisational release management strategies, policies and standards.\r\nAligns release management with overall business strategies and objectives. Ensures the availability of resources and tools for effective release management.\r\nCommunicates release strategies and outcomes to stakeholders.\r\nDrives the adoption of new release management techniques and technologies."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/RELM"},"Deployment":{"code":"DEPL","description":"Transitioning software from development to live usage, managing risks and ensuring it works as intended.","levels":{"2":"Assists in deploying software releases and updates under routine supervision.\r\nExecutes defined deployment processes and procedures using deployment tools and techniques.\r\nMonitors deployed applications and reports issues. Assists in rolling back deployments when necessary.","3":"Deploys software releases and updates to production environments.\r\nUses deployment tools and techniques to ensure consistent deployments. Monitors and troubleshoots deployment processes.\r\nPerforms rollbacks of deployments in case of issues or failures.\r\nCollaborates with release management and operations teams.","4":"Plans and executes deployments of complex software releases and updates.\r\nManages continuous deployment using automation tools and techniques. Develops and maintains deployment processes, procedures and scripts.\r\nMonitors and optimises deployment processes for efficiency and reliability. Ensures the availability, performance and security of deployed applications.\r\nCollaborates with cross-functional teams.","5":"Designs and implements deployment approaches, processes and automation tools for the organisation.\r\nOversees the deployment of critical and large-scale software. Ensures deployment processes align with organisational standards and recommended practices.\r\nContinuously improves deployment processes and automation capabilities.\r\nDefines monitoring and alert strategies for deployed applications.","6":"Defines organisational deployment strategies, policies and standards.\r\nAligns deployment practices with overall operations and service delivery goals.\r\nEnsures the availability of resources and tools for effective deployment.\r\nDrives the adoption of new deployment techniques and technologies. Collaborates with senior stakeholders to ensure deployments meet business strategies and objectives."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DEPL"},"Storage management":{"code":"STMG","description":"Provisioning, configuring and optimising on-premises and cloud-based storage solutions, ensuring data availability, security and alignment with business objectives.","levels":{"2":"Assists with storage management tasks such as provisioning.\r\nSupports the setup and configuration of storage systems, incorporating standard security practices.\r\nHelps monitor storage performance and capacity, and documents storage utilisation.","3":"Executes routine storage management tasks following established procedures and using standard tools.\r\nImplements documented configurations for allocation of storage, installation and maintenance of secure storage systems using the agreed operational procedures.\r\nIdentifies operational problems, including security-related issues, and contributes to their resolution.\r\nUses standard management and reporting tools to collect and report on storage utilisation, performance and backup statistics.","4":"Prepares and maintains operational procedures for storage management. \r\nMonitors capacity, performance, availability and other operational metrics. Takes appropriate action to ensure corrective and proactive maintenance of storage and backup systems to protect and secure business information. \r\nCreates reports and proposals for improvement. \r\nContributes to the planning and implementation of new installations and scheduled maintenance and changes of existing systems.","5":"Develops standards and guidelines for implementing data protection and disaster recovery functionality for all business applications and business data. \r\nProvides authoritative advice and guidance to implement and improve storage management.  \r\nManages storage and backup systems to provide agreed service levels. \r\nCreates, improves and supports storage management services with optimal utilisation of storage resources, ensuring security, availability and integrity of data.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for storage management.\r\nDevelops strategies for managing storage and data based on the level of criticality of the information. \r\nEnsures compliance with regulatory and security requirements. \r\nAligns investments in storage management with business goals and data management policies."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/STMG"},"Facilities management":{"code":"DCMA","description":"Planning, designing and managing the buildings, space and facilities which, collectively, make up the IT estate.","levels":{"2":"Assists with the tasks related to granting, monitoring and reporting on physical access controls under routine supervision. \r\nFollows established procedures and guidelines to support the maintenance of the physical environment. \r\nHelps create and maintain documentation.","3":"Monitors compliance against agreed processes and investigates, assesses and resolves incidents of non-compliance, escalating where necessary. \r\nProcesses physical access requests, monitors access control systems and reports on access-related activities.","4":"Uses data centre management tools to produce management information on power, cooling and space and investigate issues where necessary. \r\nCarries out routine audit and checks to ensure adherence to policies and procedures. \r\nFacilitates the implementation of mandatory electrical safety testing.","5":"Develops and maintains the standards, processes and documentation for data centres. \r\nOptimises efficiency in the population of data centre space. Ensures adherence to all relevant policies and processes. \r\nUses data centre management tools to plan, record and manage installed infrastructure, power, space and cooling capabilities. \r\nMonitors  usage and actions to meet sustainability targets.","6":"Sets organisational policies for managing the IT estate, ensuring alignment with recognised industry practices. \r\nDevelops strategies to forecast and fulfil future data centre space requirements.\r\nTakes overall responsibility for adherence to health and safety regulations and electrical safety policies.\r\nIdentifies and implements recognised industry practices to align future plans with corporate sustainability targets."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DCMA"}},"Service management":{"Service level management":{"code":"SLMO","description":"Agreeing targets for service levels and assessing, monitoring and managing the delivery of services against the targets.","levels":{"2":"Monitors and logs the actual service provided. \r\nCompares delivered service to service level agreements, identifying any deviations or areas for improvement.","3":"Monitors service delivery performance metrics. \r\nLiaises with stakeholders to help them plan for a deterioration in service and/or breaches of service level agreements.","4":"Performs defined tasks to monitor service delivery against service level agreements and maintains records of relevant information. \r\nAnalyses service delivery performance to identify actions required to maintain or improve levels of service.\r\nInitiates and reports on actions to maintain or improve levels of service.","5":"Ensures service delivery meets agreed service levels. \r\nNegotiates service level requirements and agreed service levels with customers. \r\nDiagnoses service delivery problems and initiates actions to maintain or improve levels of service. \r\nEstablishes and maintains operational methods, procedures and facilities and reviews them regularly for effectiveness and efficiency.","6":"Ensures service delivery is monitored effectively and that identified actions to maintain or improve levels of service are implemented. \r\nEnsures service level agreements are complete and cost-effective across the catalogue of available services. Ensures operational methods, procedures, facilities and tools are established, reviewed and maintained. Prepares proposals to meet forecast changes in the levels or types of services.\r\nReviews service delivery to ensure agreed targets are met. \r\nNegotiates with relevant parties in respect of disruptions and major amendments to the provision of services.","7":"Sets strategies for service delivery that support the strategic needs of the client organisation. \r\nAuthorises allocation of resources for monitoring service delivery arrangements. \r\nDevelops relationships with customers at the highest level to identify potential areas of mutual commercial interest for future development. \r\nMaintains an overview of the contribution of service delivery arrangements to organisational success. Provides leadership within the industry on the identification of future trends."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SLMO"},"Service catalogue management":{"code":"SCMG","description":"Providing a source of consistent information about available services and products to customers and users.","levels":{"2":"Assists with service catalogue management tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the collection and updating of service and product information.\r\nHelps maintain the accuracy and relevance of the service catalogue.","3":"Collates information needed to populate the service catalogue. \r\nEdits and maintains service and product descriptions and keeps the list of available services up to date. \r\nActs as a contact point, receiving and handling routine updates to the service catalogue. \r\nIdentifies opportunities to improve service catalogue management processes.","4":"Contributes to the design and implementation of a service catalogue.\r\nEnables automation of service requests and order fulfilment. \r\nProvides advice and guidance on the information to be included in the service catalogue. \r\nContributes to reviews and improvement of the catalogue and of service catalogue management processes.","5":"Manages the creation and maintenance of a catalogue of services. \r\nEnsures the service catalogue is complete and current. Works with service owners to ensure consistency and accuracy of the service catalogue entries. \r\nCompletes regular reviews of the catalogue with stakeholders to ensure relevance to business needs and requirements. \r\nManages the service catalogue management processes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SCMG"},"Availability management":{"code":"AVMT","description":"Ensuring services deliver agreed levels of availability to meet the current and future needs of the business.","levels":{"3":"Performs defined availability management tasks, such as routine monitoring and data collection.\r\nTests disaster recovery procedures under direction and contributes to the documentation of recovery plans.\r\nAssists with the operation of availability management tools and processes.\r\nMonitors service components against agreed performance standards and reports any deviations.","4":"Analyses service and component availability, reliability, maintainability and serviceability. \r\nContributes to the availability management process and its operation. \r\nMonitors and maintains services and components to ensure ongoing compliance with agreed performance targets and service levels.\r\nImplements disaster recovery arrangements and documents recovery procedures. Conducts testing of recovery procedures.","5":"Provides advice and guidance on the planning, design and improvement of service and component availability. \r\nInvestigates all breaches of availability targets and service non-availability and initiates remedial activities. \r\nDevelops plans for disaster recovery together with supporting processes. \r\nManages the testing of disaster recovery plans.","6":"Sets policy and develops strategies, plans and processes to ensure services deliver agreed levels of availability. \r\nDevelops and implements new availability tools and techniques."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/AVMT"},"Continuity management":{"code":"COPL","description":"Developing, implementing and testing a business continuity framework.","levels":{"2":"Maintains records of all related testing and training and ensures the availability of all documentation.\r\nRecords the actions taken and the consequences following an incident or live testing of a continuity plan for a lessons-learned report.","3":"Applies a structured approach to develop and document the detail for a continuity plan. \r\nMaintains documentation of business continuity and disaster recovery plans. \r\nSupports the development of a test plan and implementation of continuity management exercises.","4":"Contributes to the development of continuity management plans. \r\nIdentifies information and communication systems that support critical business processes. \r\nCoordinates the business impact analysis and the assessment of risks.  \r\nCoordinates the planning, designing and testing of contingency plans.","5":"Manages the development, implementation and testing of continuity management plans.  \r\nManages the relationship with individuals and teams who have authority for critical business processes and supporting systems. \r\nEvaluates the critical risks and identifies priority areas for improvement. \r\nTests continuity management plans and procedures to ensure they address exposure to risk and that agreed levels of continuity can be maintained.","6":"Sets the strategy for continuity management across the organisation. \r\nSecures organisational commitment, funding and resources for continuity management. \r\nLeads continuity management exercises. \r\nCommunicates the policy, governance, scope and roles involved in continuity management. Has defined authority and accountability for the actions and decisions for continuity management"},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/COPL"},"Capacity management":{"code":"CPMG","description":"Ensuring service components have the capacity and performance to meet current and planned business needs.","levels":{"2":"Assists in monitoring service component capacity and performance under routine guidance and supervision.\r\nCollects and reports data on resource utilisation and capacity metrics. \r\nSupports the implementation of capacity management procedures and practices.","3":"Monitors service component capacity and performance, identifying potential issues and escalating as necessary. \r\nApplies standard procedures to manage demand and capacity. \r\nParticipates in capacity modelling and forecasting activities, providing input and recommendations. \r\nSupports the implementation of capacity management tools and techniques.","4":"Monitors service component capacity and initiates actions to resolve any shortfalls according to agreed procedures. \r\nApplies techniques to control the demand upon a particular resource or service. \r\nContributes to capacity modelling and planning using data-driven insights.\r\nSupports the design of service component capacity.","5":"Manages capacity modelling and forecasting activities, using data-driven insights.\r\nProactively reviews information in conjunction with service level agreements to identify any capacity issues and specifies any required changes. Provides advice to support the design of service components, including designing in flexible and scalable capacity. \r\nWorks with business representatives to agree and implement short- and medium-term modifications to capacity. \r\nDrafts and maintains standards and procedures for service component capacity management. Ensures the correct implementation of standards and procedures.","6":"Leads the development and implementation of policy and strategies for capacity and performance management to meet business needs. \r\nLeads capacity modelling and forecasting over the organisation’s planning or budgeting cycle using data-driven insights. Considers external factors and industry trends.\r\nEnsures policies and standards for capacity management are fit for purpose, current and correctly implemented. Drives continuous improvement in capacity management practices, focusing on cost-effectiveness and resource optimisation.\r\nReviews new business proposals and provides specialist advice on capacity issues."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/CPMG"},"Incident management":{"code":"USUP","description":"Coordinating responses to a diverse range of incidents to minimise negative impacts and quickly restore services.","levels":{"1":"Follows agreed procedures to identify, register and categorise incidents.\r\nUses provided tools and technologies to support the incident management process.\r\nCollects information as instructed to assist in incident resolution and allocates incidents as directed.\r\nAssists in monitoring incident queues and escalates issues according to procedures.","2":"Provides first line investigation and gathers information to enable incident resolution and allocate incidents. \r\nGathers information to enable incident resolution and allocates incidents according to established procedures. Escalates incidents as necessary. \r\nAdvises relevant people of actions taken. Communicates with users and stakeholders to provide updates on incident status. \r\nAssists in maintaining records and documentation related to incidents.","3":"Prioritises and diagnoses incidents applying agreed procedures and tools.\r\nInvestigates causes of incidents and seeks resolution. \r\nEscalates unresolved incidents to higher levels or specialist teams. Coordinates with stakeholders to ensure timely resolution.\r\nFacilitates recovery, following resolution of incidents. Documents, communicates outcomes and closes resolved incidents.","4":"Monitors and manages incident queues to ensure incidents are handled according to procedures and service levels. \r\nContributes to developing, testing and improving incident management procedures. Uses analytics tools to track trends.\r\nEnsures resolved incidents are properly documented and closed. \r\nSupports team members in the correct use of the incident process.","5":"Responsible for the operation of the incident management process. \r\nManages incident communications, ensuring al parties are aware of incidents and their role in the process. \r\nLeads the review of major incidents and informs service owners of outcomes. Ensures incident resolution within service targets. Analyses metrics and reports on the performance of the incident management process. \r\nDevelops, maintains and tests incident management policy and procedures. Ensures compliance with regulatory requirements.","6":"Shapes and directs the organisation's incident management strategy. Establishes policies and standards for incident management aligned with organisational goals.\r\nProvides leadership during major incidents, coordinating cross-functional teams and external partners. Makes high-level decisions to minimise impact and ensure swift recovery.\r\nLeads the development of organisational capabilities for incident management.\r\nPromotes organisational collaboration and ensures that incident management processes are understood and adopted across the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/USUP"},"Problem management":{"code":"PBMG","description":"Managing the lifecycle of all problems that have occurred or could occur in delivering a service.","levels":{"2":"Assists with problem management tasks under routine supervision.\r\nHelps document problems and maintain relevant records.\r\nAssists in detecting, logging, classifying, and prioritising problems in systems, processes, and services.","3":"Investigates problems in systems, processes and services. \r\nContributes to the implementation of agreed remedies and preventative measures.","4":"Initiates and monitors actions to investigate and resolve problems in systems, processes and services.\r\nDetermines problem fixes and remedies. \r\nCollaborates with others to implement agreed remedies and preventative measures.\r\nSupports analysis of patterns and trends to improve problem management processes.","5":"Ensures appropriate action is taken to anticipate, investigate and resolve problems in systems and services. \r\nEnsures problems are fully documented within the relevant reporting systems. \r\nEnables development of problem solutions. Coordinates the implementation of agreed remedies and preventative measures.\r\nAnalyses patterns and trends and improves problem management processes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PBMG"},"Change control":{"code":"CHMG","description":"Assessing risks associated with proposed changes and ensuring changes to products, services or systems are controlled and coordinated.","levels":{"2":"Administers, tracks, logs, reports on change requests, using appropriate tools, techniques and processes.\r\nProvides assistance to implement standard low-risk changes, in accordance with defined change control procedures.","3":"Develops, documents and implements changes based on requests for change. \r\nApplies change control processes and procedures. \r\nApplies tools, techniques and processes to manage and report on change requests.","4":"Assesses, analyses, develops, documents and implements changes based on requests for change. \r\nEnsures operational processes and procedures are in place for effective change control. \r\nDevelops, configures and maintains tools to manage and report on the lifecycle of change requests.  \r\nIdentifies problems and issues and recommend corrective actions.","5":"Leads the assessment, analysis, development, documentation and implementation of changes.\r\nDevelops implementation plans for complex requests for change. \r\nReviews proposed implementations and evaluates the risks to the integrity of the product and service environment. Ensures appropriate change approval is applied to changes. \r\nReviews the effectiveness of change implementation.  Identifies, evaluates and manages the adoption of appropriate tools, techniques and processes for change control.","6":"Sets the organisation's policy for the management of change in live services and test environments.\r\nEnsures effective control and treatment of risk. \r\nLeads the development of new and improved practices for change control. \r\nMeasures and monitors adherence to standards and ensures consistent execution of the process across the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/CHMG"},"Asset management":{"code":"ASMG","description":"Managing the full lifecycle of assets from acquisition, operation, maintenance to disposal.","levels":{"2":"Uses agreed procedures to create and maintain an accurate register of assets. \r\nPerforms activities related to the administration of assets. \r\nProduces routine reports to assist asset management activities and decision-making.","3":"Applies tools, techniques and processes to create and maintain an accurate asset register. \r\nProduces reports and analysis to support asset management activities and aid decision-making.","4":"Controls assets in one or more significant areas ensuring administration of full lifecycle of assets is carried out. \r\nProduces and analyses registers and histories of authorised assets and verifies that all of these assets are in a known state and location. \r\nActs to highlight and resolve potential instances of unauthorised assets.","5":"Manages and maintains the service compliance of  IT and service assets in line with business and regulatory requirements. \r\nIdentifies, assesses and communicates associated risks. \r\nEnsures asset controllers, infrastructure teams and the business co-ordinate and optimise value, maintain control and maintain appropriate legal compliance.","6":"Sets the strategy for asset management across the organisation. \r\nCommunicates the policy, governance, scope and roles involved in asset management. \r\nPromotes awareness of and commitment to the role of asset management in the continuing economic and effective provision of services. Provides information and advice on complex asset management issues.\r\nInitiates impact assessment arising from decisions to obtain, change or continue the possession or use of an asset, system or service."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ASMG"},"Service acceptance":{"code":"SEAC","description":"Managing the process to obtain formal confirmation that service acceptance criteria have been met.","levels":{"3":"Applies standard service acceptance criteria and participates in service acceptance testing. \r\nCollaborates with delivery teams to ensure service deliverables meet the required standards. \r\nDocuments and communicates the outcomes of service acceptance activities. \r\nIdentifies and reports issues or non-conformances, assisting with their resolution.","4":"Engages with delivery teams to confirm that products developed meet the service acceptance criteria and are to the required standard. \r\nAssesses risks related to service acceptance and suggests actions to address identified risks. \r\nFacilitates the communication of acceptance criteria across teams to maintain alignment and consistency throughout the process.\r\nProvides input into change control processes.","5":"Engages with delivery teams to ensure correct products are produced in a timely fashion. \r\nLeads the assessment of complex or critical service deliverables, ensuring they meet both current and future operational needs. Leads comprehensive risk evaluations identifying and prioritising risks that may impact service readiness. \r\nProvides authoritative advice on service acceptance practices. Provides recommendations for enhancing service readiness and improving service acceptance processes.\r\nEvaluates the quality of project outputs against agreed service acceptance criteria.","6":"Develops the organisation's approach for service acceptance, owns the transition process and defines the acceptance criteria for service transitions.\r\nEnsures risk management activities are aligned with the organisation's broader risk management framework. Promotes and monitors project quality outputs to ensure they are fit for purpose and fit for use within operational services. \r\nActively engages with stakeholders to promote awareness and compliance with service transition quality plans and processes. \r\nAgrees the service acceptance criteria with delivery teams."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SEAC"}},"Security services":{"Security operations":{"code":"SCAD","description":"Manages and administers security measures, using tools and intelligence to protect assets, ensuring compliance and operational integrity.","levels":{"1":"Performs simple security administration tasks. \r\nMaintains relevant records and documentation, contributing to overall data integrity.","2":"Receives and responds to routine requests for security support. Maintains records and effectively communicates actions taken.\r\nAssists in the investigation and resolution of issues relating to security systems using basic diagnostic tools and techniques.\r\nDocuments incident and event information and generates reports on exceptions and security events. Contributes to management reporting processes.","3":"Investigates minor security breaches using established procedures, incorporating analytical tools and techniques.\r\nPerforms non-standard operational security tasks adapting to evolving technologies and threat landscapes.\r\nAddresses and resolves a variety of security events to maintain system integrity and operational continuity.","4":"Maintains and optimises operational security processes. Checks that all requests for support are dealt with according to established protocols, including for cloud-based and automated systems.\r\nProvides advice on implementing and managing physical, procedural and technical security encompassing both physical and digital assets.\r\nInvestigates security breaches in accordance with established procedures using advanced tools and techniques and recommends necessary corrective actions. \r\nEnables effective implementation of recommended security measures and monitors their performance.","5":"Oversees security operations procedures, ensuring adherence and effectiveness, including cloud security practices and automated threat responses.\r\nReviews actual or potential security breaches and vulnerabilities and ensures they are promptly and thoroughly investigated. Recommends actions and appropriate control improvements.\r\nEnsures the integrity and completeness of security records, ensuring timely support and adherence to established procedures.\r\nContributes to the creation and maintenance of security policies, standards and procedures integrating new compliance requirements and technology advances.","6":"Develops comprehensive policies, standards, processes and guidelines for organisational security across the entire digital landscape.\r\nEnsures the ongoing relevance and effective implementation of security policies and standards, adapting to emerging technologies and threats.\r\nReviews and advises on security aspects of new business initiatives considering implications in the evolving digital landscape.\r\nLeads strategic planning for security operations, integrating advanced threat intelligence and automation to enhance organisational resilience."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SCAD"},"Identity and access management":{"code":"IAMT","description":"Manages identity verification and access permissions within organisational systems and environments.","levels":{"1":"Performs basic identity and access management tasks, including user account lifecycle management, under supervision.\r\nMaintains accurate records and follows established identity and access management protocols.","2":"Provides assistance for identity and access management operations, including automated role allocation and access control management.\r\nEngages in user identity lifecycle management, including account creation and deletion.\r\nFacilitates operation of identity and access management tools and self-service portals.","3":"Administers standard identity and access management services, implementing policies and resolving related issues. \r\nManages monitoring, audits and logging for identity and access management systems. Investigates minor security breaches in accordance with established procedures related to identity and access management.\r\nAssists users in defining their access rights and privileges. Designs and implements simple identity and access management solutions, enhancing user access security. Contributes to the enhancement and optimisation of existing identity and access management processes and systems.","4":"Designs and implements complex identity and access management solutions, focusing on automated access control and role allocation. \r\nOversees the integration of identity and access management services with new technologies.\r\nProvides specialised support for complex identity and access management operations and supports implementation of policies and standards.\r\nCollaborates with stakeholders to align identity and access management with business objectives and emerging security trends.","5":"Offers authoritative advice on identity and access management, ensuring services align with and support evolving business needs and security protocols.\r\nManages large-scale identity and access management initiatives and oversees the integration of identity and access management services with new technologies, enhancing security and operational efficiency.\r\nLeads operational planning for identity and access management, anticipating future trends and preparing the organisation for scalable growth.\r\nEnsures compliance of identity and access management systems and oversees advanced monitoring and audit processes.","6":"Shapes and defines organisation-wide identity and access management policies, ensuring alignment with business strategies and security requirements.\r\nChampions good practices, advocating for robust and innovative identity and access management solutions across the organisation.\r\nInfluences and guides organisational governance, integrating emerging technologies and regulatory compliance into identity and access management strategies.\r\nReviews and advises on identity and access management aspects and implications of new business initiatives."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/IAMT"},"Vulnerability assessment":{"code":"VUAS","description":"Identifying and classifying security vulnerabilities in networks, systems and applications and mitigating or eliminating their impact.","levels":{"2":"Undertakes low-complexity routine vulnerability assessments using automated and semi-automated tools. \r\nEscalates issues where appropriate.\r\nContributes to documenting the scope and evaluating the results of vulnerability assessments.","3":"Follows standard approaches to perform basic vulnerability assessments for small information systems. \r\nSupports creation of  catalogues of information and technology assets for vulnerability assessment.","4":"Collates and analyses catalogues of information and technology assets for vulnerability assessment. \r\nPerforms vulnerability assessments and business impact analysis for medium complexity information systems. \r\nContributes to selection and deployment of vulnerability assessment tools and techniques.","5":"Plans and manages vulnerability assessment activities within the organisation.\r\nEvaluates, selects and reviews vulnerability assessment tools and techniques.\r\nProvides expert advice and guidance to support the adoption of agreed approaches.\r\nObtains and acts on vulnerability information and conducts security risk assessments, business impact analysis and accreditation on complex information systems."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/VUAS"},"Digital forensics":{"code":"DGFS","description":"Recovering and investigating material found in digital devices.","levels":{"2":"Assists with digital forensic investigations under routine supervision. \r\nSupports the recovery of damaged, deleted or hidden data from digital devices.\r\nHelps collect and preserve digital information and evidence according to established protocols.","3":"Applies standard forensic tools and techniques to examine digital devices. \r\nRecovers and analyses damaged, deleted or hidden data from various digital sources and devices. \r\nMaintains the integrity of digital evidence and ensures its collection adheres to legal admissibility standards.","4":"Designs and executes complex digital forensic examinations. \r\nSpecifies requirements for specialised forensic tools and resources. Provides guidance on advanced data recovery techniques and artefact analysis. \r\nProcesses and analyses digital evidence in line with organisational policies and industry standards. Develops procedures for handling emerging technologies in forensic contexts.\r\nContributes to forensic reports detailing technical findings.","5":"Leads investigations to correctly gather, analyse and present findings, including digital evidence, to both business and legal audiences.\r\nCollates conclusions and recommendations and presents forensic findings to stakeholders.\r\nPlans and manages digital forensics activities within the organisation. Provides expert advice on digital forensics.\r\nContributes to the development of digital forensics policies, standards and guidelines. Evaluates and selects digital forensics tools and techniques.","6":"Plans and leads the organisation’s approach to digital forensics.\r\nSets policies, standards and guidelines for how the organisation conducts digital forensic investigations.\r\nLeads and manages high risk, large or wide-ranging digital forensics investigations engaging additional specialists if required.\r\nAuthorises the release of formal forensic reports. Engages with external stakeholders on forensic matters."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DGFS"},"Cybercrime investigation":{"code":"CRIM","description":"Investigates cybercrimes, collects evidence, determines incident impacts and collaborates with legal teams to protect digital assets.","levels":{"2":"Assists in cybercrime investigations under routine supervision. \r\nSupports the collection of evidence related to cybercrime investigations. \r\nParticipates in monitoring suspicious activities.\r\nHelps maintain evidence integrity and assists in preliminary interviews. Follows established protocols and guidelines.","3":"Conducts cybercrime investigations using standard procedures. \r\nCollects and preserves various forms of evidence in cybercrime cases. Assesses credibility and checks for compliance with relevant investigative standards. \r\nAnalyses basic cyber threats and incidents, and prepares investigative reports. Identifies incidents that may have legal implications. \r\nConducts interviews and assists in interrogations.","4":"Oversees mid-level investigations, coordinating evidence collection and forensic analyses.\r\nAssesses target vulnerabilities and operational impacts of cyber incidents.\r\nProvides comprehensive reports and expert analysis for stakeholders. \r\nConducts interviews and interrogations, identifying potential legal implications and collaborating with legal professionals.","5":"Manages complex cybercrime investigations, overseeing all stages from detection to resolution. \r\nEvaluates incidents involving advanced threats or significant breaches. \r\nDevelops and implements procedures for evidence handling and documentation. Collaborates with legal teams to ensure evidence supports potential legal proceedings. \r\nLeads the development of response strategies, assessing vulnerabilities and operational capabilities. Oversees the implementation of tools and automation to enhance investigative processes.","6":"Defines the organisational strategy for cybercrime investigations.\r\nEstablishes policies and standards for handling various forms of evidence in cybercrime cases, including the adoption and integration of tools and automation to improve efficiency and accuracy.\r\nOversees high-risk or sensitive investigations, managing cross-disciplinary teams. Conducts high-level interviews and interrogations, providing strategic insights on cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities.\r\nEngages with external stakeholders, including regulatory bodies and legal entities, to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/CRIM"},"Offensive cyber operations":{"code":"OCOP","description":"Plans, executes and manages offensive cybersecurity operations, including target selection, electronic target folders and post-operation analysis.","levels":{"2":"Supports offensive cyber operations under supervision. \r\nAssists in creating electronic target folders based on provided intelligence. \r\nParticipates in basic operational tasks, following established security protocols.\r\nAssists in documenting operations and outcomes, contributing to post-operation reviews.","3":"Carries out specific tasks within offensive cyber operations, aligning operational tasks with broader objectives.\r\nSupports the creation and maintenance of electronic target folders, gathering and verifying target information. \r\nAssists in the execution of operations, maintaining operational security. \r\nPrepares detailed reports and participates in post-operation analysis.","4":"Responsible for the execution of offensive cyber operations, including detailed planning and target selection. \r\nManages the development and updating of electronic target folders, ensuring accuracy and comprehensiveness. Coordinates operational teams, adapting actions based on real-time intelligence. \r\nEnsures compliance with legal and ethical standards during operations. Evaluates collateral damage from targeting activities, including potential second and third-order effects.\r\nConducts post-operation analyses, assessing impact and recommending improvements.","5":"Leads complex and high-risk offensive cyber operations, overseeing planning, execution and analysis. \r\nIntegrates intelligence with operational planning, aligning all actions with organisational objectives. Evaluates the intelligence cost against the operational benefit of engaging targets. Assesses potential collateral damage, including second and third-order effects. \r\nManages the creation and tactical use of electronic target folders, coordinating with external entities as necessary. \r\nDevelops policies and standards for offensive operations, ensuring legal and ethical compliance. Provides expert guidance on offensive capabilities and operational tactics.","6":"Sets the strategic direction and policies for offensive cyber operations within the organisation. \r\nLeads the development and deployment of advanced operational techniques and capabilities. Oversees critical and sensitive operations, ensuring alignment with national or organisational security goals. \r\nCollaborates with senior leadership and external entities on offensive operations. Evaluates intelligence cost versus operational benefit at a strategic level. Assesses and mitigates potential collateral damage.\r\nEvaluates and refines the effectiveness of offensive operations, providing recommendations for future initiatives."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/OCOP"},"Penetration testing":{"code":"PENT","description":"Testing the effectiveness of security controls by emulating the tools and techniques of likely attackers.","levels":{"2":"Assists with penetration testing tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the execution of standard penetration tests on systems, networks and applications.\r\nHelps document and report on test results, findings and potential security risks.","3":"Follows standard approaches to design and execute penetration testing activities.\r\nResearches and investigates attack techniques and recommends ways to defend against them. \r\nAnalyses and reports on penetration testing activities, results, issues and risks.","4":"Selects appropriate testing approaches using in-depth technical analysis of risks and typical vulnerabilities. \r\nProduces test scripts, materials and test packs and tests new and existing networks, systems or applications. Provides advice on penetration testing to support others.\r\nRecords and analyses actions and results and modifies tests if necessary. \r\nProvides reports on progress, anomalies, risks and issues associated with the overall project.","5":"Plans and drives penetration testing within a defined area of business activity. \r\nDelivers objective insights into the existence of vulnerabilities, the effectiveness of defences and mitigating controls. \r\nTakes responsibility for the integrity of testing activities and coordinates the execution of these activities. Provides authoritative advice and guidance on all aspects of penetration testing. \r\nIdentifies needs and implements new approaches for penetration testing. Contributes to security testing standards.","6":"Determines penetration testing policy and owns the supporting processes. \r\nManages all penetration testing activities within the organisation. Assesses and advises on the practicality of testing process alternatives. \r\nEstablishes capability for continual improvement and invention in penetration testing and leads the implementation of new approaches. \r\nAssesses suppliers' development and testing capabilities. Manages client relationships with respect to penetration testing."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PENT"}},"Data and records operations":{"Records management":{"code":"RMGT","description":"Planning, implementing and managing the full lifecycle of organisational records.","levels":{"1":"Follows detailed guidance to acknowledge receipt of records, including the capture of essential metadata.\r\nDelivers digital and physical records in line with agreed procedures.","2":"Assists in the collection, delivery and retention of records. \r\nIdentifies and applies appropriate metadata.\r\nUses established methods to transform records between formats or media, following organisational policies and procedures. Identifies and reports potential risks or issues related to information handling and security.\r\nPerforms administrative tasks to maintain accessibility, retrievability, integrity, security and protection of records.","3":"Maintains key metadata for records, including ownership and category information.\r\nConfigures routine controls to restrict record operations to approved actions only. Conducts routine searches for records required to support authorised requests. Supports users in finding and accessing records.\r\nUses ethical and reliable methods to transform data between formats or media, following organisational policies and being aware of potential issues when handling information.\r\nTransforms data between formats or media using ethical and reliable methods. Follows organisational policies and actively identifies potential risks in information handling.","4":"Supports the implementation of records management policies and practices including the approved disposal of records.\r\nConducts complex or sensitive searches for records to address authorised requests.\r\nMonitors and reports on the implementation of effective controls for records management including metadata and access controls. Recommends remediation actions as required.\r\nProvides advice and guidance to enable appropriate records management practices to be adopted across the organisation.","5":"Ensures implementation of records management policies covering all aspects of retention and disposal.\r\nManages access controls for records, including authorising access and approving the release of potentially sensitive information. Conducts and oversees complex record searches, seeking legal guidance when necessary.\r\nReviews new change proposals and provides specialist advice on records management. Assesses and manages records-related risks.\r\nContributes to the development of policy, standards and procedures for compliance with records-related legislation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/RMGT"},"Analytical classification and coding":{"code":"ANCC","description":"Interpreting information and assigning classifications or labels based on domain-specific knowledge, standards and guidelines to enable data analysis and use.","levels":{"2":"Accurately assigns classifications/labels to low complexity information under supervision. \r\nUnderstands and applies relevant classification/labelling systems, standards and guidelines. \r\nParticipates in quality assurance activities such as peer review or supervisor checks.","3":"Independently assigns accurate classifications/labels to a broad range of information. \r\nInterprets complex information and chooses appropriate classifications/labels. \r\nParticipates in team quality improvement initiatives. \r\nAdvises and guides others on classification/labelling practices.","4":"Assigns classifications/labels to highly complex information. \r\nPerforms quality assurance checks on the work of others. Investigates and corrects complex classification/labelling errors. \r\nDelivers training to team members. \r\nContributes to the development of classification/labelling processes and guidelines.","5":"Leads team quality assurance and training for information classification/labelling. \r\nDevelops and implements audit methodologies for assessing classification and labelling accuracy and consistency.\r\nCollaborates with subject matter experts to improve source information quality. Analyses and reports on classification/labelling quality. \r\nContributes to organisational information classification/labelling strategy.","6":"Sets organisational information classification/labelling standards, policies and procedures. \r\nDesigns and oversees quality audit programmes. \r\nLeads strategic interventions to improve information classification/labelling. \r\nEngages with industry bodies and collaborates to define and improve standards and working practices."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ANCC"},"Database administration":{"code":"DBAD","description":"Installing, configuring, monitoring, maintaining databases and data stores, ensuring performance and security and adapting to evolving technologies.","levels":{"2":"Executes operational procedures, runs automation scripts and performs routine maintenance and monitoring of databases.\r\nAdjusts automation tasks as instructed to meet operational standards for databases.\r\nReports on database performance, addresses issues directly when possible, or escalates to others for resolution.","3":"Provisions, installs, configures and ensures the maintenance and reliability of databases.\r\nMonitors databases for load, performance and security events. Reports metrics and resolves operational issues.\r\nExecutes standard operational procedures, including database backups and restorations.\r\nAutomates routine database administration tasks to specifications using standard scripts and tools.","4":"Applies technical expertise to maintain and optimise databases, executing updates and employing automation tools. Configures tools and/or creates scripts to automate database tasks.\r\nMaintains operational procedures and checks that they are followed, including compliance with security policies. Uses database management tools to monitor load and performance statistics. \r\nInvestigates and enables the resolution of database operational and security issues. Provides reports and proposals for improvement to stakeholders.\r\nContributes to the planning and implementation of database maintenance and updates. Implements agreed database changes and maintenance routines.","5":"Provides technical leadership to optimise the performance of databases.\r\nDrives the adoption of tools and automated processes for effective database management and delivery.\r\nOversees the planning, installation, maintenance and acceptance of new and updated database components and database-based services. Ensures alignment to service expectations, security requirements and other quality standards.\r\nEnsures database operational procedures and documentation are current and effective, tracks and addresses operational issues and reports to stakeholders."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DBAD"}}},"People and skills":{"People management":{"Performance management":{"code":"PEMT","description":"Improving organisational performance by developing the performance of individuals and workgroups to meet agreed objectives with measurable results.","levels":{"4":"Provides operational direction, support and guidance to assigned colleagues. \r\nAllocates routine tasks or project work, in line with team objectives and individual capabilities. Monitors quality and performance against agreed criteria to make learning recommendations or to escalate concerns. \r\nCoaches colleagues in developing target skills and capabilities in line with team and personal goals.  \r\nFacilitates effective working relationships between team members.","5":"Forms, maintains and leads workgroups and individuals to achieve organisational objectives. \r\nDelegates objectives and responsibilities, including people management tasks. Sets quality, performance and capability targets aligned with organisational goals. \r\nMonitors performance and working relationships and provides feedback to address individual issues. Encourages skill development in line with team and personal goals. Adjusts workload, targets and team capacity to support individual growth. \r\nActively participates in formal processes such as recruitment, reward, promotion and disciplinary procedures.","6":"Determines and delegates people management and functional management objectives and responsibilities. \r\nCreates and sets the direction for multiple workgroups to achieve strategic organisational objectives. Sets strategy for quality and performance measurement in line with organisational goals. \r\nProvides a work environment and resources that allow individuals and workgroups to perform their tasks efficiently. \r\nLeads the implementation of formal organisational processes such as recruitment, reward, promotion and disciplinary procedures."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PEMT"},"Employee experience":{"code":"EEXP","description":"Enhancing employee engagement and ways of working, empowering employees and supporting their health and wellbeing.","levels":{"4":"Supports assigned co-workers by providing guidance on areas such as organisational contacts, communication channels, processes, job expectations and manager relations.\r\nHelps individuals navigate areas of uncertainty, offering practical advice and connecting them with the appropriate resources when needed.","5":"Implements working practices that motivate employees and support their health and wellbeing. \r\nProvides guidance to individuals on long-term development goals and career opportunities, considering an individual's strengths and preferences. \r\nCommunicates business direction, policy and purpose where these may drive or affect employee engagement. Ensures clear communication of delegated tasks and provides sufficient autonomy to motivate and empower individuals.\r\nMaintains awareness of the physical and emotional welfare of employees, and provides counselling when required.","6":"Leads on the implementation of organisational strategies for employee engagement.\r\nEnsures managers provide a productive working environment that motivates employees and supports their health and wellbeing. \r\nInitiates productive working practices for remote, virtual and onsite working and ensures the availability of support for employees. \r\nCommunicates and promotes policies for employee health and wellbeing."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/EEXP"},"Organisational facilitation":{"code":"OFCL","description":"Supporting workgroups to implement principles and practices for effective teamwork across organisational boundaries and professional specialisms.","levels":{"4":"Facilitates a series of group activities or workshops in situations of complexity and ambiguity and competing stakeholder needs.\r\nDesigns a structured sequence of meetings, events or workshops to solve complex problems.\r\nUnderstands required outcomes and outputs from teams and facilitates the team to deliver these.\r\nHelps to improve team processes and performance in meetings, events or workshops.","5":"Facilitates workgroups to deliver defined goals and outcomes. \r\nProvides support, guidance and suggestions to workgroups and teams to learn collaborative problem solving and improve their team performance.  Creates shared responsibilities and sustainable agreements with the team.\r\nImplements and improves agreed team principles, practices, processes & ceremonies.\r\nRecognises and works with the strengths and constraints of team dynamics.","6":"Facilitates cross-functional leadership teams to deliver organisational goals and outcomes.\r\nDesigns repeatable, systematic or ad hoc team processes for decision-making, prioritisation and problem-solving at the highest level. Guides leadership teams in developing shared responsibilities and making decisions that enable sustainable agreements.\r\nAsks questions and raises awareness of leadership team performance. Provides suggestions to encourage teams to learn and improve how they work together.\r\nChampions the development of self-organising workgroups across the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/OFCL"},"Professional development":{"code":"PDSV","description":"Facilitating the professional development of individuals in line with their career goals and organisational requirements.","levels":{"4":"Assists practitioners with creating personal development plans. \r\nAdvises on suitable development activities such as specific learning or experience to be gained. \r\nMonitors practitioners’ continuing professional development records. \r\nEnsures achievements and enhanced capabilities are recorded and referenced to personal and organisational objectives.","5":"Determines development needs for a professional practice area. \r\nAligns development activities with organisational priorities, learning and development strategies and career pathways. \r\nGuides practitioners in creating development plans. Advises and supports assigned practitioners, ensuring alignment with professional development plans and career opportunities. \r\nEnsures practitioners record evidence of continuing professional development. Contributes to practitioners' performance appraisals, when required.","6":"Develops and defines a professional development framework for one or more professional disciplines. \r\nDetermines and maintains organisational development needs in line with business needs and strategic direction. Generates development strategies to achieve required change. \r\nDevelops and leads communities of practice, including defining career pathways. \r\nDefines the approach to identifying suitable individuals to provide career advice and support.  Monitors progress and evaluates business benefits achieved from continual professional development."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/PDSV"},"Workforce planning":{"code":"WFPL","description":"Strategically projecting the demand for people and skills and proactively planning the workforce supply to meet organisational needs.","levels":{"4":"Gathers, maintains and analyses organisation-wide workforce capability data.\r\nPerforms gap analysis to identify workforce strengths and shortfalls with reference to business strategy and specific future needs. \r\nContributes to the development of organisation-wide workforce plans to meet current and future demand. \r\nCoordinates and schedules ongoing workforce planning activities. Assists in maintaining a skills and capability inventory.","5":"Leads the development of workforce plans to ensure the availability of appropriately skilled resources to meet organisational objectives and commitments.\r\nContributes to the development of the strategic workforce planning approach. Oversees and reviews the implementation of workforce plans. \r\nDevelops current-state assessment of workforce skills, capabilities and potential. Forecasts future workforce demand for skills based on broad organisation-wide plans and external factors. \r\nMaintains a skills and capability inventory and identifies options for closing gaps.","6":"Defines an integrated strategic workforce planning approach connecting organisational business goals to future skill needs.\r\nCommunicates the workforce planning approach and obtains organisational commitment. Selects frameworks to be used for the organisation's skills and capability inventory. \r\nInterprets business strategy to direct workforce demand forecasting (skills and numbers) for the organisation. Monitors the external environment in relation to supply and emerging trends. \r\nInfluences people management policies and practices to align with workforce plans. Integrates with resourcing strategies and plans. Monitors execution of workforce plans."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/WFPL"},"Resourcing":{"code":"RESC","description":"Acquiring, deploying and onboarding resources.","levels":{"2":"Assists with resourcing tasks under routine supervision.\r\nHelps with recruiting and onboarding new employees.\r\nSupports the documentation and tracking of resourcing activities.","3":"Supports managers and teams in resourcing and recruitment activities. \r\nUses recommended tools for planning, scheduling and tracking resourcing activity. \r\nProvides guidance on resource management and recruitment software, procedures, processes, tools and techniques.","4":"Facilitates and supports the execution of resourcing activities in collaboration with managers and teams.\r\nAnalyses resource requests to determine tasks, skills and effort required. Creates and communicates open positions internally and externally. Conducts interviews and assessments using a planned format and structure.\r\nImplements internal resource allocation matching skills to tasks. Contributes to transitioning of resources, complying with relevant statutory or external regulations and codes of practice.","5":"Plans and manages the acquisition and deployment of resources to meet specific needs and ongoing demand.\r\nDefines and manages the implementation of resourcing processes and tools. Advises on available options and customises resourcing approach to meet requirements. Adheres to standards, statutory or external regulations and codes of practice and ensures compliance. \r\nEngages with external parties in support of resourcing plans.\r\nMeasures effectiveness of resourcing processes and implements improvements.","6":"Defines resourcing approach for a significant part of the organisation in line with workforce plans and strategic business goals.\r\nCommunicates resourcing approach and obtains organisational commitment. Advises on standards, regulations and codes of practice and ensures compliance.\r\nMaintains a strong external network and supplier framework to support sourcing and acquiring resources.\r\nLeads development of plans and budget to ensure the organisation has appropriately skilled resources to meet organisational objectives and commitments. Reviews the ongoing success and effectiveness of resource management processes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/RESC"}},"Skills management":{"Learning and development management":{"code":"ETMG","description":"Delivering management, advisory and administrative services to support the development of knowledge, skills and competencies.","levels":{"2":"Supports learning and development activities under routine supervision. \r\nAssists in maintaining training records and documenting learning and development activities. \r\nHelps organise learning events and track attendance.","3":"Contributes to the maintenance of training records and the catalogue of learning and development resources.\r\nSupports the organisation of learning events by helping to coordinate logistics, schedules, and communication with attendees.\r\nSupports the collection and organisation of data on learning and development activities to assist in evaluating their effectiveness.","4":"Contributes to the development and maintenance of a catalogue of learning and development resources. \r\nUses data to analyse and evaluate the effectiveness of learning/educational activities. \r\nBooks and organises learning events. \r\nUpdates and controls training records, including attainment of certificates and accreditations.","5":"Manages the provision of learning and development, ensuring optimum use of resources. \r\nMaintains, publicises and promotes a catalogue of learning and development activities. Ensures courses are up to date and accredited (when required). \r\nArranges facilities and schedules with learning and development providers as appropriate. \r\nUses data to assess and improve the effectiveness of learning or educational activities.","6":"Determines the learning and development programme and delivery mechanisms needed to grow staff skills in line with business needs.\r\nIdentifies appropriate accreditation and qualification paths applicable to individuals within the organisation.\r\nEvaluates learning outcomes. \r\nManages the development and provision of all learning, taking account of the strategic aims of the employing organisation.","7":"Directs the development and implementation of a learning and development strategy for the organisation aligned to business needs. \r\nLeads the provision of learning and development expertise, guidance and systems needed to execute strategic and operational plans. \r\nSecures organisational resources to execute the learning and development strategy. \r\nIdentifies opportunities for strategic relationships with suppliers and partners."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ETMG"},"Learning design and development":{"code":"TMCR","description":"Designing and developing resources to transfer knowledge, develop skills and change behaviours.","levels":{"2":"Assists with learning design and development tasks under routine supervision.\r\nSupports the creation and maintenance of learning materials and resources.\r\nHelps document and organise learning content and environments.","3":"Designs, creates, customises and maintains learning materials and resources to deliver agreed outcomes, and meet accreditation requirements when appropriate. \r\nContributes to the design, configuration and testing of learning environments.","4":"Specifies the content and structure of learning and development materials. \r\nTakes responsibility for design, creation, packaging and maintenance. Manages development to deliver agreed outcomes. \r\nWhere required, designs, configures and tests learning environments. \r\nSecures external accreditations as appropriate.","5":"Specifies solutions for use in learning and development programmes in the workplace or in compulsory, further or higher education.\r\nCommissions the development of learning materials, allocates resources to learning teams and defines learning outcomes. \r\nLeads learning programmes, recommends and specifies learning interventions for design, development and deployment according to agreed learning outcomes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/TMCR"},"Learning delivery":{"code":"ETDL","description":"Transferring knowledge, developing skills and changing behaviours using a range of techniques, resources and media.","levels":{"2":"Performs a range of learning activities under direction to support the delivery of learning objectives. \r\nAssists in the preparation of learning environments. \r\nObserves learners performing practical activities and work, providing assistance with routine enquiries and escalating where needed.","3":"Delivers learning activities to various audiences using prepared materials aligned with established learning objectives. \r\nFollows established guidelines to prepare the learning environment. Assists in developing and maintaining relevant examples and case studies.\r\nUses a range of delivery techniques to develop learner skills and knowledge. \r\nObserves learners performing practical activities and work. Advises and assists where necessary. Provides detailed instruction where necessary and responds to questions, seeking advice in exceptional conditions beyond own experience.","4":"Prepares and delivers learning activities tailored to various audiences and specific learning objectives.\r\nContributes to the design and selection of appropriate environments. Uses a broad range of learning delivery techniques to build learner skills and knowledge. Develops and updates examples and case study materials.\r\nObserves and evaluates learner performance, offering guidance and tailored instruction. \r\nAdjusts delivery approaches and materials to enhance learner experience, responding to specialised queries and ensuring objectives are met.","5":"Manages the delivery of programmes of learning to ensure learning objectives are met. \r\nPlans and schedules the delivery of learning activities. Leads the design and selection of appropriate environments to support and enhance the learning experience. Customises learning activities incorporating relevant scenarios and case studies. \r\nDelivers learning activities to specialist audiences requiring the application of advanced technical and professional principles to unpredictable situations. Advises others in learning delivery techniques and options.\r\nEvaluates and monitors the performance of learning delivery activities."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ETDL"},"Competency assessment":{"code":"LEDA","description":"Assessing knowledge, skills, competency and behaviours by any means, whether formal or informal, against frameworks such as SFIA.","levels":{"2":"Assists in the administration of competency assessments using standard tools and procedures under routine supervision. \r\nSupports the collection and organisation of assessment data and results using specified methods and tools. \r\nHelps create and maintain documentation.","3":"Performs routine assessments of knowledge, skills, competencies, or behaviours using specified tools and methods. \r\nSupports the collection, organisation, and review of assessment data to maintain accurate records.","4":"Performs routine and non-routine assessments of knowledge, skill, competency or behaviour using specified methods. \r\nProvides advice and guidance to support the adoption of assessment methods and tools. \r\nModerates assessments conducted by other assessors. \r\nReviews and improves usage and application of assessment methods and tools.","5":"Provides advice and guidance on selecting, adopting and adapting assessment methods, tools and techniques. \r\nPlans assessments based on the context of the assessment and how assessment results will be used. \r\nManages execution of assessments to ensure they deliver the required outcomes with acceptable quality. Monitors and moderates reviews performed by other assessors. \r\nManages reviews of the benefits and value of assessment methods and tools. Identifies and recommends improvements to assessment methods and tools.","6":"Champions the importance and value of assessment and appropriate assessment methods, tools and techniques. \r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for assessments. \r\nLeads in the introduction and use of assessment methodologies and tools.  Establishes an assessment practice and pool of assessors within the organisation. \r\nEstablishes quality assurance to ensure internal and/or external consistency and reliability of assessment outcomes. Ensures the quality of assessments across different user groups."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/LEDA"},"Certification scheme operation":{"code":"CSOP","description":"Designing, developing and operating certification schemes, accreditations and credentials, including digital credentials or badges.","levels":{"2":"Processes applications for certification. \r\nLogs complaints.\r\nAssists with the preparation and organisation of credential materials.\r\nSupports the creation and maintenance of credentials or certificates and helps resolve routine problems during the certification lifecycle.","3":"Issues certifications or credentials and maintains and retains certification records. \r\nMaintains information on the certification scheme and a general description of the certification process. \r\nDesigns, creates, develops, customises and maintains credentials or certificates. \r\nResponds to public information requests. Analyses and acts on complaints or issues.","4":"Documents instructions for all personnel involved in certification, including legally enforceable agreements with any third parties involved in the process. \r\nIdentifies threats to impartiality by analysing, mitigating or eliminating potential conflict of interests arising from certification activities. \r\nImplements the procedures for certification of individuals for the delivery of training. \r\nDetermines the merits of complaints and any remedial actions required.","5":"Defines a certification or accreditation scheme, including organisation structure, duties, responsibilities and authorities. \r\nDetermines necessary competence to perform certification functions. Designs and implements the examiner or assessor selection and approval process. \r\nMonitors performance and judgements, and agrees corrective actions. Plans and provides adequate premises, equipment and resources. \r\nDocuments policies and procedures for maintenance and release of information, including consideration of any legal agreements for confidentiality.","6":"Sets policies and standards for the operation of a certification scheme, including segregation of duties and addressing impartiality. \r\nDevelops and maintains a description of the code of ethics and professional practices required. \r\nAligns certification schemes with relevant external standards, frameworks such as SFIA and established industry practices. \r\nObtains approval from accreditation scheme owners or governance bodies."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/CSOP"},"Teaching":{"code":"TEAC","description":"Delivering and assessing curricula in a structured and systematic education environment.","levels":{"2":"Contributes to the delivery of aspects of computing and IT curricula in a formal educational context. \r\nApplies good practice in learning content design, development and delivery.\r\nAssesses student performance in aspects of a curriculum area, providing support to enhance student understanding as needed.","3":"Delivers the majority of a curriculum. \r\nApplies good practice in learning content design, development and delivery. Maintains awareness of relevant pedagogical and domain research.\r\nAssesses student performance across a curriculum. Provides feedback and support to help students improve their understanding.","4":"Delivers a curriculum. \r\nApplies good practice supported by pedagogical research to learning content design, development and delivery. \r\nAssesses student performance and reviews cohort performance. Advises and assists students to enable the achievement of learning objectives.","5":"Leads the teaching and assessment of a curriculum or learning pathway.  \r\nImplements enhancement strategies for teaching and assessment. Reviews pedagogical research and practices relevant to topics in the curricula. Applies good teaching practices in learning content design, development and delivery.\r\nContributes to the development and implementation of specialist teaching practices needed by the curriculum.  \r\nEvaluates and monitors student achievements and the effectiveness of teaching activities across the curriculum.  Advises on the use of appropriate pedagogies and assessment approaches.","6":"Leads the teaching, assessment and enhancement of a range of curricula or learning pathways.\r\nReviews and critically evaluates pedagogical research and practices relevant to the curricula. Develops and leads the introduction of advanced or specialist teaching practices. \r\nLeads and supports others in the development of good practice in learning content design, development and delivery. \r\nMonitors, evaluates and reports the performance of teaching and assessment activities within their areas of responsibility.","7":"Authorises teaching, assessment and enhancement strategies for a broad range of curricula or learning pathways.\r\nDirects the definition, implementation and monitoring of teaching to satisfy relevant statutory and professional benchmarks and frameworks.\r\nSecures resources to deliver the organisation's teaching commitments.\r\nMonitors and evaluates relevant domain and pedagogical research to identify and implement improvements to the delivery of the curricula."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/TEAC"},"Subject formation":{"code":"SUBF","description":"Specifying, designing and developing curricula within a structured and systematic education environment.","levels":{"4":"Contributes to curriculum development by selecting or specifying curriculum content or assessment approaches for one or more specialist areas.","5":"Contributes to the specification and development of curricula and assessment in an educational context or for an independent examination body.","6":"Leads the specification and development of curricula and assessment in an educational context or for an independent examination body. \r\nContributes to the development of a strategy for curriculum evolution. \r\nEnsures relevant current domain research is represented in the curricula.","7":"Authorises the curriculum and assessment strategies for a broad range of curricula or learning pathways.\r\nDirects the definition, implementation and monitoring of curricula to satisfy relevant statutory and professional benchmarks and frameworks.\r\nDevelops strategies for the evolution of curricula over time. Incorporates emerging domain and pedagogical themes into plans for future curricula."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SUBF"}}},"Relationships and engagement":{"Stakeholder management":{"Sourcing":{"code":"SORC","description":"Managing, or providing advice on, the procurement or commissioning of products and services.","levels":{"2":"Assists in the preparation of pre-qualification questionnaires and tender invitations in response to business cases. \r\nAssembles relevant  information for tenders. \r\nProduces detailed evaluation criteria for simple tender criteria. \r\nAssists in the evaluation of tenders.","3":"Prepares pre-qualification questionnaires and tender invitations in response to business cases. \r\nRecognises the difference between open source and proprietary systems options. \r\nApplies standard procedures and tools to produce detailed evaluation criteria for complex tenders and to evaluate tenders.","4":"Reviews business cases (requirements, potential benefits and options) and determines appropriate procurement routes. \r\nUsing market knowledge to inform specifications, ensures detailed pre-qualification questionnaires and tender invitations are prepared. \r\nCollects and collates data to support collaboration and negotiates terms and conditions to reflect the scale of requirements and encourage optimal performance. \r\nEvaluates tenders based on specification and evaluation criteria, prepares acceptance documentation and advises on contracts and service level agreements.","5":"Plans and manages procurement activities. \r\nManages tender, evaluation and acquisition processes. Researches suppliers and markets, and maintains a broad understanding of the commercial environment, to inform and develop commercial strategies and sourcing plans. \r\nAdvises on the business case for alternative sourcing models. Advises on policy and procedures covering tendering, the selection of suppliers and procurement. \r\nNegotiates with potential partners and suppliers, developing acceptance criteria and procedures. Drafts and places contracts.","6":"Develops policy and procedures for sourcing and procurement activities. \r\nEstablishes procurement strategies, standards, methods, processes and good practices that ensure compliance with legislation, regulation and information security requirements.\r\nLeads the procurement process, from clarifying requirements through to placing, monitoring and terminating contracts. Conducts complex negotiations and sets parameters for routine negotiations. Ensures terms and conditions align with organisational requirements, current legislation and policy.\r\nIdentifies external partners, engaging with professionals in related disciplines as appropriate.","7":"Shapes and leads the organisation's overarching sourcing and procurement strategies, ensuring alignment with the global business vision and long-term objectives.\r\nAssumes full accountability for all sourcing and procurement activities, guiding the organisation's sourcing vision and strategic procurement decisions.\r\nStrategically develops, deploys and continually assesses procurement processes to align with dynamic market conditions and organisational goals.\r\nLeads high-level negotiations for major, organisation-defining contracts, setting negotiation frameworks and strategies that significantly impact the organisation's market position and success."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SORC"},"Supplier management":{"code":"SUPP","description":"Aligning the organisation’s supplier performance objectives and activities with sourcing strategies and plans, balancing costs, efficiencies and service quality.","levels":{"2":"Assists in the collection and reporting of supplier performance data.\r\nAssists with the routine day-to-day communication between the organisation and suppliers.","3":"Acts as the routine contact point between the organisation and suppliers.\r\nSupports resolution of supplier-related incidents, problems, or unsatisfactory performance.\r\nCollects and reports on supplier performance data.","4":"Collects supplier performance data and investigates problems. \r\nMonitors and reports on supplier performance, customer satisfaction, adherence to security requirements and market intelligence. Validates that suppliers' performance is in accordance with contract terms. \r\nEngages proactively and collaboratively with suppliers to resolve incidents, problems, or unsatisfactory performance. \r\nImplements supplier management-related service improvement initiatives and programmes.","5":"Manages suppliers to meet key performance indicators and agreed targets. \r\nManages the operational relationships between suppliers and ensures potential disputes or conflicts  are raised and resolved. \r\nPerforms bench-marking and makes use of supplier performance data to ensure performance is adequately monitored and regularly reviewed. Use suppliers' expertise to support and inform development roadmaps.\r\nManages implementation of supplier service improvement actions. Identifies constraints and opportunities when negotiating or renegotiating contracts.","6":"Develops organisational policies, standards and guidelines to ensure effective supplier management across the integrated supply chain. \r\nDefines the approach for commercial communications and the management of relationships with suppliers. Establishes a positive and effective working environment with suppliers for mutual benefit. \r\nEnsures resources and tools are in place to conduct bench-marking. Reviews supplier analysis and assesses effectiveness across the supply chain. \r\nManages risks and assures the quality of the services delivered by suppliers.","7":"Determines overall supplier management strategy, embracing effective management and operational relationships at all levels. \r\nLeads collaborative supplier partnerships. Aligns supplier performance and relationship management with business objectives and sourcing strategies.\r\nEstablishes frameworks for supplier governance and service monitoring.\r\nEnsures commercial value from contracts and represents the organisation in significant supplier disputes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SUPP"},"Contract management":{"code":"ITCM","description":"Managing and operating formal contracts, addressing supplier and client needs in product and service provision.","levels":{"2":"Assists in collecting contract performance data. \r\nProduces standard reports on contract performance under routine supervision.","3":"Acts as a routine contact point between the organisation and counterparties concerning contract management. \r\nSupports the collection of contract performance data. Creates standard reports on contract performance.","4":"Sources and collects contract performance data (such as pricing and supply chain costs), and monitors performance against key performance indicators. \r\nMonitors progress against business objectives specified in the business case. Proactively manages risk and reward mechanisms in the contract. \r\nIdentifies and reports under-performance and develops opportunities for improvement. Monitors compliance with terms and conditions and takes appropriate steps to address non-compliance. \r\nIdentifies where change is required and plans for variations. Ensures, in consultation with stakeholders, that change management protocols are implemented.","5":"Oversees and measures the fulfilment of contractual obligations. \r\nUses key performance indicators to monitor and challenge performance and identify opportunities for continual improvement. Develops strategies to address under-performance and compliance failures, including the application of contract terms. \r\nIdentifies where changes are required, evaluates the impact, and advises stakeholders about the implications and consequences. Negotiates variations and seeks appropriate authorisation. \r\nActively supports and engages with experts and stakeholders to ensure continual improvements are identified through review and benchmarking processes. Develops and implements change management protocols.","6":"Negotiates and resolves contractual issues, including failure to meet contractual obligations. \r\nPromotes change control processes and leads variation negotiations when necessary. Champions continual improvement programmes, jointly developing strategies and incentives to enhance performance. Undertakes comprehensive financial evaluations. \r\nEnsures due diligence and legal vetting underpin all procurement processes, affirming risk assessment and compliance in contractual engagements. Ensures lessons learned from reviews are documented and promoted to all stakeholders. \r\nLeads the advancement and application of effective contract management practices within a specific business domain or category.","7":"Leads the strategic direction and governance of contract management processes across the organisation. Advises executive leadership on contract management risks and strategies.\r\nImplements contract management strategies aligned with organisational goals and market dynamics, including oversight of significant contracts and associated legal risks. Acts as the escalation point for major disputes. \r\nPromotes operational excellence in contract management, driving supply chain contracting improvements and innovation. \r\nEstablishes strategic partnerships, aligning organisational and supplier goals. Represents the organisation in key negotiations, ensuring strategic, compliant outcomes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ITCM"},"Stakeholder relationship management":{"code":"RLMT","description":"Systematically analysing, managing and influencing stakeholder relationships to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes through structured engagement.","levels":{"4":"Deals with problems and issues, managing resolutions, corrective actions, lessons learned and the collection and dissemination of relevant information. \r\nImplements stakeholder engagement/communications plans.  Collects and uses feedback from customers and stakeholders to help measure the effectiveness of stakeholder management. \r\nHelps develop and enhance customer and stakeholder relationships.","5":"Identifies the communications and relationship needs of stakeholder groups. Translates communications/stakeholder engagement strategies into specific activities and deliverables. \r\nFacilitates open communication and discussion between stakeholders. \r\nActs as a single point of contact by developing, maintaining and working to stakeholder engagement strategies and plans.  Provides informed feedback to assess and promote understanding. \r\nFacilitates business decision-making processes. Captures and disseminates technical and business information.","6":"Leads the development of comprehensive stakeholder management strategies and plans. \r\nEstablishes and builds long-term, strategic relationships with key stakeholders to support service delivery and change initiatives. \r\nActs as a principal point of contact, ensuring effective communication and alignment. Negotiates and ensures agreements meet stakeholder needs.\r\nOversees the monitoring of stakeholder relationships, capturing lessons learned and providing feedback. Leads initiatives to enhance communication and relationships, promoting collaboration and understanding between all parties.","7":"Determines the strategic approach to understanding stakeholder objectives and requirements. \r\nWorks with all interested parties to identify stakeholders and establish effective relationships. Establishes and promotes the overall vision for how stakeholder objectives are met and determines organisational roles and alignment. \r\nActively manages relationships with the most senior stakeholders and is the ultimate escalation point for issue resolution."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/RLMT"},"Customer service support":{"code":"CSMG","description":"Managing and operating customer service or service desk functions.","levels":{"1":"Receives and handles routine customer inquiries and requests, following established procedures.\r\nAccurately records customer interactions and maintains relevant records.\r\nEscalates complex issues to appropriate team members or departments.","2":"Responds to common customer service requests, providing information to enable fulfilment or resolution.\r\nAllocates unresolved calls, requests, or issues to appropriate functions.\r\nContributes to the maintenance of customer service knowledge bases and documentation.\r\nAssists in monitoring customer satisfaction metrics.","3":"Acts as a routine contact point for customers, handling a wide range of inquiries and service requests.\r\nPerforms initial investigation and diagnosis of customer issues, resolving them where possible or escalating as needed.\r\nContributes to the development of service standards and procedures.\r\nAssists in analysing service performance data and identifying areas for improvement.","4":"Monitors service delivery across multiple channels and analyses performance data.\r\nContributes to the development and implementation of service standards and procedures. Provides technical and procedural guidance to team members.\r\nIdentifies trends in customer inquiries and service issues, recommending process improvements.\r\nCollaborates with other departments to enhance the overall customer experience.","5":"Manages day-to-day operations of the customer service function, including resource planning and work allocation.\r\nDevelops and implements service standards, policies and procedures. Analyses service metrics and customer feedback to drive continuous improvement initiatives.\r\nEnsures the service catalogue is comprehensive, up-to-date and aligned with organisational goals.\r\nDevelops approaches to enhance customer satisfaction.","6":"Shapes the strategic direction for customer service across the organisation.\r\nDefines service channels, service levels, standards and the monitoring process for customer service or service desk staff. Champions the service culture required to deliver organisational outcomes.\r\nLeads the development and implementation of organisational frameworks for complaints, service standards and operational agreements.\r\nTakes responsibility for business continuity and legal, regulatory and contractual compliance."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/CSMG"},"Business administration":{"code":"ADMN","description":"Managing and performing administrative services and tasks to enable individuals, teams and organisations to succeed in their objectives.","levels":{"1":"Performs routine administrative tasks in a structured environment. \r\nFollows clear procedures. Uses common office software and equipment. \r\nOrganises and maintains information following agreed procedures.\r\nAssists with basic coordination activities.","2":"Assists with administrative tasks for a team. \r\nMaintains systems for organising information and documents. \r\nCoordinates team activities and acts as a point of contact for internal and external contacts.\r\nUses relevant digital tools and platforms.","3":"Provides administrative support function to teams and meetings.\r\nTakes an active part in team discussions. \r\nSets up and maintains systems for organising information and documents. Compiles and distributes reports. \r\nProvides guidance on administrative software, procedures, processes, tools and techniques.","4":"Assists the teams and managers in ensuring they have the information and resources needed to support ongoing processes. \r\nAssists in planning for meetings. Liaises and organises across functions. \r\nSets up and provides detailed guidance on software, procedures, processes, tools and techniques for administration and workplace productivity.\r\nContributes to the development and maintenance of organisational policies, procedures and documentation.","5":"Manages the delivery of business administration services. \r\nManages and prioritises the schedules and communication of senior managers and leadership teams to ensure efficient use of time and resources.\r\nHandles sensitive, confidential information. \r\nEnsures managers have the information and resources needed to support ongoing processes and changes in processes.","6":"Leads and coordinates strategic initiatives working across departmental or functional boundaries. \r\nDesigns, plans and coordinates high-level meetings and events, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and desired outcomes.\r\nProvides direction and receives progress updates from members of an executive team. Meets collectively or individually with members of a leadership management team to follow up on action points, issues and risks. Reports on progress and resolves issues. \r\nManages highly sensitive and confidential issues and information."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/ADMN"}},"Sales and bid management":{"Bid/proposal management":{"code":"BIDM","description":"Managing preparation and submission of bids and proposals for contracts, grants, projects, or services.","levels":{"3":"Supports the development of proposals by engaging in document analysis and internal review. \r\nUnderstands and analyses bid documents and requirements, preparing initial response drafts that align with the organisation's capabilities and stakeholder needs. \r\nCommunicates with internal stakeholders to gather necessary information and clarify proposal requirements. \r\nEnsures proposal responses meet basic compliance standards and align with the specified requirements and organisational capabilities.","4":"Leads the creation of small to medium proposals, integrating technical analysis and broader context. \r\nCoordinates team efforts, shapes the proposal structure and addresses financial aspects including budgeting and pricing strategies. \r\nIdentifies and manages proposal risks, ensuring timely compliance with stakeholder expectations. \r\nEngages with stakeholders and shapes proposal structure and content based on in-depth discussions and feedback.","5":"Leads the formulation and execution of significant proposals, managing the process from initial evaluation to final submission. \r\nOversees significant proposals, aligning them with organisational strategies and managing the process from inception to submission. \r\nCollaborates with high-level stakeholders, negotiates with key stakeholders and secures advantageous partnerships. \r\nRefines and optimises the proposal development process for efficiency and effectiveness.","6":"Directs major proposal initiatives, devising engagement strategies and promoting excellence in proposal practices throughout the organisation. \r\nInfluences organisational policies and strategies in proposal management, setting standards and expectations."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/BIDM"},"Selling":{"code":"SALE","description":"Finding prospective customers and working with them to identify needs, influence purchase decisions and enhance future business opportunities.","levels":{"3":"Identifies new leads and prospects and communicates them to the sales manager. \r\nResponds to assigned sales leads. Assists in maintaining relationships with existing customers and identifies potential opportunities for additional sales or services.\r\nApplies agreed standards and tools to perform simple sales tasks or support complex sales processes. \r\nMonitors and reports on assigned sales quota, performance, customer satisfaction, market intelligence and competitors.","4":"Identifies and qualifies new sales leads and prospects with a view to developing a pipeline of potential opportunities. \r\nManages existing sales leads. \r\nCollects and uses information to achieve sales objectives. \r\nUnderstands customers and their needs, and develops and enhances customer relationships before, during and after the conclusion of agreements/contracts. Identifies opportunities for upselling and cross-selling within the existing customer base.","5":"Designs and implements sales strategies and works with senior management to implement sales plans. \r\nDevelops and maintains effective customer relationships at executive levels and qualifies new sales leads. Collaborates with bid teams to align sales strategies.\r\nAgrees and signs contracts. Maintains customer contact during and after sales to pre-empt issues and identify opportunities. Develops strategies for account growth and retention. Implements initiatives to ensure long-term value and loyalty.\r\nPlans, monitors and controls sales teams. Contributes to the development of sales teams and product/service development.","6":"Oversees the organisation's sales activities to align with business objectives.\r\nApproves sales proposals and targets. Develops sales policy and strategy, and contributes to the marketing strategy. Works with bid management to ensure sales strategies are effectively represented in major proposals.\r\nNegotiates with senior customer representatives on technical and contractual issues. Agrees and signs contracts.\r\nCollaborates on evolving services, products, systems and contracts to meet future customer needs. Implements strategies for lifetime customer value and partnerships. Oversees key account management programmes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SALE"},"Sales support":{"code":"SSUP","description":"Providing advice and support to the sales force, customers and sales partners.","levels":{"1":"Communicates effectively with customers to provide basic information about products and services.\r\nSeeks assistance from colleagues for the resolution of more complex customer service queries and complaints. \r\nUses sales support systems to retrieve and enter data.","2":"Communicates effectively with customers by telephone and in person. \r\nAssists in providing customer service, including technical advice and guidance on the successful use of products and services. \r\nAssists in devising solutions to customer requirements and solves straightforward problems.","3":"Helps customers to clarify their requirements and documents the conclusions reached. \r\nContributes to preparing and supporting bids and sales proposals. \r\nProvides customer service, including technical advice and guidance on the successful use of complex products and services.","4":"Works closely with the sales team to help prospects to clarify their requirements. \r\nDevises solutions and assesses their feasibility and practicality. \r\nDemonstrates technical feasibility using physical or simulation models. Resolves technical problems.\r\nProduces estimates of cost and risk and initial project plans to inform sales proposals.","5":"Works closely with the sales team to ensure customers are assisted and advised appropriately. \r\nEnsures reliable cost, effort and risk estimates and project plans are produced. \r\nManages all sales support activities, taking full responsibility for the technical content of bids and sales proposals. \r\nEstablishes metrics to provide data on performance and support continual improvement of sales support activities.","6":"Leads the organisation's sales-related customer service activities to ensure they are aligned with corporate objectives and policy. \r\nApproves proposals and initiates the implementation of development activity in customer services and systems."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/SSUP"}},"Marketing":{"Marketing management":{"code":"MKTG","description":"Developing, implementing and managing marketing strategies and plans to achieve organisational objectives and drive business growth.","levels":{"4":"Contributes to the development and execution of marketing plans. \r\nApplies recognised good practices to analyse marketing effectiveness and ROI. \r\nAssists in defining target customers and brand positioning. Implements solutions to marketing challenges within established guidelines. Collaborates with team members to execute marketing activities.","5":"Develops and manages comprehensive marketing plans aligned with business objectives. \r\nImplements strategies to maximise marketing effectiveness given organisational goals. Leads the definition of target customers and brand positioning.\r\nAnalyses complex data to inform marketing decisions. Creates innovative solutions to marketing challenges. \r\nCoordinates with other teams to execute integrated marketing approaches.","6":"Defines and oversees the execution of  marketing strategies to achieve organisational goals. \r\nEnsures alignment of marketing plans with business objectives and market insights. Evaluates and optimises marketing effectiveness and budget allocation to drive outcomes.\r\nIdentifies and addresses current and future marketing capability needs. \r\nCollaborates with senior leadership to integrate marketing strategies with organisational vision.","7":"Leads the creation of long-term marketing strategies aligned with organisational vision. \r\nDirects the marketing function, ensuring integration of marketing plans with business goals. Oversees the evaluation and optimisation of marketing activities, ensuring maximum impact and efficiency. \r\nProvides strategic advice to senior leadership on marketing trends and opportunities. \r\nPromotes a culture of creativity and continuous improvement within the marketing team. Ensures the marketing function adapts to changing market conditions and business needs."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/MKTG"},"Market research":{"code":"MRCH","description":"Gathering, analysing and interpreting data about markets, customers and competitors to inform business decisions and strategies.","levels":{"3":"Assists in the design and execution of market research studies. \r\nCollects and analyses data using standard methods and tools. \r\nContributes to the preparation of research reports and presentations.","4":"Designs and conducts market research studies independently. \r\nAnalyses market data to identify trends, opportunities and challenges. \r\nSegments markets and identifies target customers based on research findings. \r\nPrepares research reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations.","5":"Leads the design and execution of complex market research studies. \r\nAnalyses and synthesises market data from multiple sources to generate insights and recommendations. \r\nPresents research findings and strategic recommendations to stakeholders. Advises stakeholders on the implications of research findings for business strategy and decision-making. \r\nContributes to the development of organisational market research methods and standards.","6":"Sets the overall direction and strategy for market research in the organisation. \r\nDevelops organisational policies, standards and guidelines for market research. Ensures market research capabilities and resources are aligned with business needs and objectives. \r\nCommunicates high-level market insights and strategic implications to senior leadership and stakeholders. \r\nCollaborates with internal and external partners to influence organisational strategy and drive the effective use of market research in decision-making and strategy development."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/MRCH"},"Brand management":{"code":"BRMG","description":"Managing brand strategy to establish and enhance brand identity and value aligned with organisational goals.","levels":{"4":"Contributes to the development and implementation of brand identity elements and guidelines. \r\nSupports brand research and analysis. \r\nEnsures consistent application of brand standards across assigned projects. \r\nMonitors brand performance metrics and reports on key findings.","5":"Leads the development and execution of brand strategies and plans. \r\nDefines brand positioning, values and value proposition. Applies principles of brand architecture to manage brand portfolio. \r\nConducts in-depth brand performance analysis and provides strategic recommendations. \r\nUses creative approaches to differentiate the brand. Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to align brand initiatives with business objectives.","6":"Establishes the overall brand vision, strategy and governance for the organisation. \r\nOversees brand research, analysis and strategic planning. \r\nEvaluates brand performance and equity, making decisions to enhance brand value and organisational outcomes. Ensures alignment of brand strategy with organisational goals and market dynamics. \r\nGoverns the application of visual identity and distinctive brand assets across the organisation."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/BRMG"},"Customer engagement and loyalty":{"code":"CELO","description":"Developing and executing strategies to attract, engage and retain customers through targeted communications and loyalty initiatives.","levels":{"3":"Assists in implementing customer engagement and loyalty initiatives. \r\nUses marketing technologies for customer engagement tasks. Sets up campaigns in lifecycle management tools.\r\nCollects and analyses customer data to support personalised communications. \r\nMonitors and reports on customer engagement metrics.","4":"Develops and executes customer engagement and loyalty initiatives. \r\nCreates and manages loyalty programmes. \r\nAnalyses customer data to inform targeted communications and experiences. Develops customer segmentation approaches.\r\nApplies appropriate marketing technologies to support initiatives. Measures and reports on the effectiveness of engagement and loyalty efforts.","5":"Leads the development and implementation of comprehensive customer engagement and loyalty plans. \r\nOversees the creation and management of loyalty programmes and initiatives. Develops comprehensive plans for customer communications across all lifecycle stages.\r\nUses advanced analytics to optimise personalised customer experiences. Provides recommendations based on customer engagement and loyalty insights.\r\nCollaborates with cross-functional teams to improve customer retention and satisfaction. Evaluates and recommends marketing technologies for customer engagement.","6":"Defines organisational vision and strategy for customer engagement and loyalty. \r\nDrives innovation in loyalty programme development and implementation. Aligns customer engagement strategies with overall business objectives. \r\nLeads the assessment and adoption of advanced marketing technologies. Directs the development of customer journeys and database management strategies. \r\nEnsures integration of customer engagement initiatives across all business functions."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/CELO"},"Marketing campaign management":{"code":"MKCM","description":"Executing, monitoring and optimising marketing campaigns across various channels to engage target audiences and achieve desired outcomes.","levels":{"3":"Assists in the execution of marketing campaigns. \r\nUses selected tools and channels to engage target audiences. \r\nMonitors campaign performance and collects data for analysis. \r\nParticipates in marketing events and initiatives.","4":"Plans and executes marketing campaigns across multiple channels. \r\nSelects appropriate tools and platforms to reach desired audiences. \r\nCreates and distributes engaging marketing content and materials. Writes campaign briefs and contributes to creative evaluation.\r\nAnalyses campaign performance and makes recommendations for optimisation.","5":"Develops and oversees complex, multi-channel marketing campaign strategies. \r\nSelects optimal channels, tools and creative partners. Leads creative briefings and evaluates concepts.\r\nManages stakeholders and ensures brand consistency.\r\nMonitors campaign performance and adjusts tactics as needed. Analyses campaign results and reports on key metrics and outcomes."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/MKCM"},"Digital marketing":{"code":"DIGM","description":"Planning and executing activities to promote products, services and brands through digital channels and technologies.","levels":{"2":"Performs basic digital marketing tasks under routine supervision. \r\nAssists in the implementation of digital marketing campaigns across various platforms. \r\nCollects and organises basic performance data from digital marketing activities. \r\nContributes to the creation and distribution of digital marketing content following established guidelines.","3":"Implements digital marketing activities across multiple channels. \r\nMonitors campaign performance and makes basic optimisations. \r\nAssists in the development of digital marketing content. Follows procedures to comply with regulatory requirements and platform policies.\r\nContributes to the analysis of marketing metrics and prepares reports. Supports the planning and execution of marketing performance improvement initiatives.","4":"Plans and executes digital marketing activities across various platforms. \r\nAnalyses detailed marketing data to derive insights and improve campaign performance. Recommends and implements improvements to digital marketing activities based on performance data.\r\nManages relationships with digital marketing vendors and platform representatives. \r\nLeads the implementation of marketing automation processes. Applies organisational guidelines and uses appropriate tools to ensure digital marketing activities adhere to relevant regulations and platform policies.","5":"Leads the development and implementation of comprehensive digital marketing plans. \r\nOversees the integration with broader marketing and business objectives. Manages budgets and resources for digital marketing initiatives. \r\nProvides guidance on recognised good practices for digital marketing and emerging trends to stakeholders across the organisation. Evaluates and recommends new digital marketing technologies and approaches. Establishes and maintains strategic relationships with digital marketing vendors and platform representatives. \r\nDevelops standards and procedures for compliant digital marketing practices."},"url":"https://sfia-online.org/en/skillcode/9/DIGM"}}}}