A knowledge based assessment can be conducted as part of a TNA to identify current baseline understanding.  Knowledge assessments are based on industry standard definitions though these can be augmented with specific corporate terminology and methods as appropriate.  These assessments can be conducted in a number of ways including blind testing, targeted testing and interviews.

The competency based assessment assumes a level of understanding and therefore focuses on the application of knowledge.  Again these assessments can be done though interviews and audits or more formally through an APM 48hr Assessment Centre where your staff will be assessed against 30 predefined criteria and receive a detailed report on their strengths and areas for improvement.

This approach to assess capability uses the National Occupational Standards for Project Management as the benchmark.  These standards consist of a detailed 51 unit assessment based around the project manager’s everyday activities and require the PM to provide evidence of competence from their workplace.  In addition to being an effective assessment tool these standards provide an excellent basis for continual workplace development.