How the SFIA Framework functions as professional assessment and development

How the SFIA Framework functions as professional assessment and development

Meredyth Grant

Skills Framework for the Information Age or SFIA is a framework to define the skillset, expertise and capability required by individuals who design, develop, implement, manage and protect the data and technology that powers the digital world

In our ever-changing world, it can be overwhelming to map out a professional path that ensures future success. The digital age has brought rapid changes in our world, and the professional industry is no different. So how do professionals in the digital world assess their professional standing? Through SFIA of course! 

What is SFIA?

Skills Framework for the Information Age or SFIA is a framework to define the skillset, expertise and capability required by individuals who design, develop, implement, manage and protect the data and technology that powers the digital world. The SFIA Foundation was established as an international not-for-profit organisation that created a globally recognised standardisation regarding the creation and maintenance of the digital world. As such, SFIA has become the globally recognised common language for the skillset, expertise and capability of the digital world. By creating a common language across different fields within the digital age, SFIA has bridged the gap between those involved in different facets of the digital age workforce. This drastically improves communication between the different sectors within the industry including line management, HR and employees. 

What are SFIA Framework levels of responsibility?

Through the seven levels of responsibility, we are able to not only see the inherit structure of the SFIA Framework but also create a base of mapping out a career within the digital age, corporate structures and other frameworks. Each level is defined and structured around the behaviours, values, knowledge and characteristics that any professional should have in order to be identified as operating at the level. SFIA provides the perfect structure to be able to understand what skills, behaviours and responsibilities are required out of an individual at any given level, creating the perfect pathway for professional and personal development. To have a more in depth look of these levels, check out the SFIA explainer

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How can SFIA Framework be useful for veterans, service leavers and their families?

SFIA is a practical resource for people who manage or work in or with business and technology professionals. Anyone in or around this field would drastically benefit from the SFIA framework. For tech-curious ex-forces, SFIA is the perfect place to be able to hone your skill set. SFIA provides resources to support skillset, expertise and capability management. Furthermore, it brings together professional skills, behaviours / behavioural factors and knowledge. This not only allows for individuals to be able to create and understand their standing within the digital world but for them to be able to develop their skills further, in accordance with international standards. This would be the perfect place for veterans, service leavers and their families to be able to map out their professional future within the digital age. Furthermore, SFIA also provides professional development to help improve skill gaps that may exist, perfect for ex-forces starting a career in tech. So it doesn’t matter what level of expertise you may have, SFIA has it all. 

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You can find more insights at the link below, and if you’re a veteran, service-leaver, reservist, or spouse, find your place in the TechVets’ community right here.

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