Knowledge KNGE
The depth and breadth of understanding required to perform role-specific tasks and activities effectively.
SFIA 9 is in development
- SFIA 9 planned for publication October 2024
- This is subject to change before publication.
Guidance notes
Knowledge in SFIA focuses on how professionals apply their understanding in the workplace. This application can be categorised into three main types:
- General knowledge: This is the broad understanding that can be used in many different situations. For example, communication skills or basic computer literacy.
- Role-specific knowledge: This is the understanding needed for particular jobs or tasks. For instance, a software developer's knowledge of programming languages or a project manager's understanding of project methodologies.
- Industry knowledge: This is the expertise related to a specific field or sector. For example, understanding healthcare regulations in the medical industry or financial regulations in banking.
To perform effectively in any role, professionals need to apply a mix of these knowledge types. This means using what they know about various aspects of their work - such as technologies, products, methods, laws, services, and processes - to achieve results and create value for their organisation.
For instance, a cybersecurity professional might use their general knowledge of communication to explain risks to non-technical staff, their role-specific knowledge to implement security protocols, and their industry knowledge to ensure compliance with data protection regulations.
Knowledge application develops through:
- practical experience and hands-on problem-solving
- applying formal education and qualifications to real-world scenarios
- implementing learnings from professional training and certifications
- continuous learning and adaptation to real-world challenges in the workplace
- mentorship, where experienced professionals guide the application of knowledge.
As professionals progress, they move from applying basic, role-specific knowledge to leveraging broad, strategic understanding to shape organisational direction and 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.