SFIA Monthly News - May 2025

Recent updates from the SFIA Foundation

AI & Machine Learning Skills in SFIA: Updated page now available

• When SFIA 9 was released we published a beta version of "SFIA 9 - A framework for AI skills".
• We have now published an updated, comprehensive AI skills landing page, consolidating SFIA's approach to artificial intelligence within the framework.
• SFIA provides a flexible framework describing professional skills for developing AI and working with AI 
  
  •  Maintains SFIA's practical, industry-proven approach that has supported employers through previous technological transformations
  • Complements specialist AI frameworks and governance models
  • Integrates AI skills within SFIA's established seven-level framework, avoiding artificial boundaries between specialisms and aiding job mobility and upskilling
  • Focuses on enduring professional capabilities - not specific tools and technologies
• SFIA is much more than an AI skills catalogue. SFIA's task-oriented descriptions and responsibility levels also act as:
  
  • A checklist for spotting potential tasks where AI can automate, assist, and augment
  • A template for documenting what remains human after AI implementation
  • A responsibility gauge for determining appropriate human oversight levels for AI systems
• Generative-AI tools for HR processes fall under the "high-risk" category in AI governance frameworks.
  • SFIA's structured, expert-curated content helps organisations mitigate these risks by providing robust data quality, transparency, explainability, and bias-mitigation controls.

Explore the SFIA AI Skills Framework

SFIA and SWEBOK: New mapping to Software Engineering Body of Knowledge

• • We're pleased to announce our updated mapping between SFIA 9 and the new SWEBOK Version 4.0, the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge published by the IEEE Computer Society.
  • SWEBOK represents the current state of generally accepted knowledge in software engineering worldwide. The new Version 4.0 reflects the latest advancements and practices in the field. The guide can be used by employers, individuals and training and education providers.
  • The SFIA:SWEBOK mapping provides a route map into SFIA software engineering skills and competencies via the Knowledge Areas of the SWEBOK.
  • The interactive PDF summary chart links each skill name directly to its full definition on our website, creating a useful navigation tool for software engineering professionals.
  • The SFIA Foundation participated in the recent SWEBOK Global Summit. The slides are also available.

Explore SWEBOK-SFIA mapping resources

Reminder: SFIA Framework Foundation: Your gateway to SFIA knowledge

We've made it easier for newcomers to learn about SFIA with our structured collection of resources, offering streamlined access to essential SFIA knowledge. 

• The new SFIA Framework Foundation Test is now available directly from our website—suitable for both newcomers and experienced SFIA users, taking approximately half an hour to complete. 
• FREE until September 2025: Take the test now, pay only for the digital badge if desired. From October 2025, a fee will apply (includes digital badge).
• Completing the test provides a professional certificate and optional digital badge for your professional profiles. 
• We encourage wider participation in the test, including experienced SFIA Users, as your feedback will help us improve our educational resources.  
• The test is not designed to catch you out, there are no trick questions. The information needed to pass the test is readily available and familiar to users of SFIA. 

Quick access to essential SFIA knowledge

• Foundation Level resource hub: All core SFIA concepts organised in one place
• Online validation: Take the new SFIA Framework Foundation Test directly from our website, no additional registration needed
• Beginner-friendly: Alternatively, start with our SFIA Fundamentals quiz for a gentle introduction

 Learn more about Foundation resources and the test

Not explored SFIA 9 yet?

Discover the framework's latest evolution, including enhanced AI and cybersecurity skills, improved business factors, and new navigation tools. → [Visit SFIA 9 Quick Links]

Thank you for your continued support.

Best regards,

Peter Leather  
SFIA Updates Manager & SFIA 9 Project Manager  
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