Knowledge KNGE
The depth and breadth of understanding required to perform and influence work effectively.
Guidance notes
Knowledge in SFIA represents a progression from applying basic role-specific information to leveraging broad, strategic understanding that shapes organisational direction and industry trends. It involves:
- applying role-specific knowledge to perform routine tasks
- integrating general, role-specific, and industry knowledge
- using understanding of technologies, methods, and processes to achieve results
- applying in-depth expertise to solve complex problems
- leveraging broad knowledge to influence strategic decisions
- shaping organisational knowledge management practices.
Effective knowledge application develops through practical experience, formal education, professional training, continuous learning, and mentorship. It encompasses the ability to apply understanding in real-world scenarios, adapt to emerging challenges, and create value for the organisation.
As professionals advance, their application of knowledge evolves significantly from basic, role-specific tasks to strategic organisational leadership. This progression involves supporting team activities, applying practices within business contexts, integrating knowledge for complex tasks, offering authoritative advice, and enabling cross-domain decision-making. At higher levels, professionals apply broad business and strategic knowledge to shape organisational strategy and anticipate industry trends.
Level 1 - Follow
Applies basic knowledge to perform routine, well-defined, predictable role-specific tasks.
Level 2 - Assist
Applies knowledge of common workplace tasks and practices to support team activities under guidance.
Level 3 - Apply
Applies knowledge of a range of role-specific practices to complete tasks within defined boundaries and has an appreciation of how this knowledge applies to the wider business context.
Level 4 - Enable
Applies knowledge across different areas in their field, integrating this knowledge to perform complex and diverse tasks. Applies a working knowledge of the organisation’s domain.
Level 5 - Ensure, advise
Applies knowledge to interpret complex situations and offer authoritative advice. Applies in-depth expertise in specific fields, with a broader understanding across industry/business.
Level 6 - Initiate, influence
Applies broad business knowledge to enable strategic leadership and decision-making across various domains.
Level 7 - Set strategy, inspire, mobilise
Applies strategic and broad-based knowledge to shape organisational strategy, anticipate future industry trends, and prepare the organisation to adapt and lead.