High-performance computing HPCC

Using advanced computer systems and special programming techniques to solve complex computational problems.

Revision notes

Updates for SFIA 9

Theme(s) influencing the updates for this skill: Making SFIA easier to consume (enhance readability/guidance/descriptions).
You can move to SFIA 9 when you are ready - SFIA 8 skill descriptions will still be available to use.
Previous SFIA assessments or skills mapping are not impacted by this change.

Guidance notes

High-performance computing (HPC) is the use of super computers and parallel processing techniques for solving complex computational problems. HPC technology focuses on developing parallel processing algorithms and systems.

High-performance computing is typically used for solving advanced problems and performing research activities through computer modelling, simulation and analysis. Activities may include, but are not limited to:

designing and optimising parallel algorithms
managing and maintaining HPC infrastructures
developing software for HPC environments
conducting performance analysis and optimisation of HPC applications
collaborating with researchers to translate scientific problems into HPC solutions.

HPC technology is implemented in a variety of disciplines including, but not limited to:

biosciences and molecular modelling
geographical data
oil and gas exploration
climate modelling and weather forecasting
physical simulations
cryptanalysis.

The terms high-performance computing and supercomputing are sometimes used interchangeably.

Understanding the responsibility levels of this skill

Where lower levels are not defined...

Specific tasks and responsibilities are not defined because the skill requires a higher level of autonomy, influence, and complexity in decision-making than is typically expected at these levels. You can use the essence statements to understand the generic responsibilities associated with these levels.

Where higher levels are not defined...

Responsibilities and accountabilities are not defined because these higher levels involve strategic leadership and broader organisational influence that goes beyond the scope of this specific skill. See the essence statements.

Developing skills and demonstrating responsibilities related to this skill

The defined levels show the incremental progression in skills and responsibilities.

Where lower levels are not defined...

You can develop your knowledge and support others who do have responsibility in this area by:

Learning key concepts and principles related to this skill and its impact on your role
Performing related skills (see the related SFIA skills)
Supporting others who are performing higher level tasks and activities

Where higher levels are not defined...

You can progress by developing related skills which are better suited to higher levels of organisational leadership.

Click to learn why SFIA skills are not defined at all 7 levels.

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Levels of responsibility for this skill

Level 1

Level 1 - Follow: Essence of the level: Performs routine tasks under close supervision, follows instructions, and requires guidance to complete their work. Learns and applies basic skills and knowledge.

Level 2

Level 2 - Assist: Essence of the level: Provides assistance to others, works under routine supervision, and uses their discretion to address routine problems. Actively learns through training and on-the-job experiences.

Level 3

Level 3 - Apply: Essence of the level: Performs varied tasks, sometimes complex and non-routine, using standard methods and procedures. Works under general direction, exercises discretion, and manages own work within deadlines. Proactively enhances skills and impact in the workplace.

High-performance computing: Level 4

Level 4 - Enable: Essence of the level: Performs diverse complex activities, supports and guides others, delegates tasks when appropriate, works autonomously under general direction, and contributes expertise to deliver team objectives.

Develops moderately complex solutions that use high-performance computing environments to address real-world problems.

Applies a range of high-performance computing techniques with sensitivity to the limitations of the techniques. Uses input and feedback from experts as appropriate.

Analyses the complexity, scalability and performance of algorithms, including massively parallel implementations, and makes or recommends improvements.

High-performance computing: Level 5

Level 5 - Ensure, advise: Essence of the level: Provides authoritative guidance in their field and works under broad direction. Accountable for delivering significant work outcomes, from analysis through execution to evaluation.

Creates, tests and improves complex high-performance computing solutions to address real-world problems.

Collaborates with stakeholders to ensure high-performance computing solutions are effective at addressing their problems.

Guides development teams in the appropriate and effective use of high-performance computing resources

High-performance computing: Level 6

Level 6 - Initiate, influence: Essence of the level: Has significant organisational influence, makes high-level decisions, shapes policies, demonstrates leadership, promotes organisational collaboration, and accepts accountability in key areas.

Initiates the creation, testing, improvement and application of algorithms that solve real-world problems in high-performance computing environments.

Sets standards and strategies for the use of high-performance computing.

Leads the implementation of organisational capabilities to ensure appropriate, consistent and effective usage of high-performance computing.

High-performance computing: Level 7

Level 7 - Set strategy, inspire, mobilise: Essence of the level: Operates at the highest organisational level, determines overall organisational vision and strategy, and assumes accountability for overall success.

Directs the creation and review of a cross-functional, enterprise-wide approach and culture for high-performance computing.

Leads the development of the organisation’s high-performance computing capabilities and champions its use in solving real-world problems.

Guidance notes