What is a competency framework and how is it used for succession planning?

• A. A list of job titles used to assign salaries.
• B. A structured set of role-based competencies; used to assess gaps, guide development plans, identify readiness for leadership.
• C. A training calendar.
• D. A method to evaluate customer satisfaction.

Answer: (C)

A competency framework defines the knowledge, skills, and behaviors expected for roles within an organization. For succession planning, it provides a consistent benchmark to compare an employee’s current capabilities with the requirements of future leadership roles. This makes it possible to identify gaps, design targeted development plans to close those gaps, and assess who is ready to move into leadership positions and what development they still need. The other ideas describe something different: a list of job titles for salaries, a training calendar, or a way to measure customer satisfaction, none of which capture the role-based standards and succession-focused use of a competency framework.