The Study of Competency-Based Training and Strategies in the Public Sector

• Published date: 01 June 2013
• Date: 01 June 2013
• Author: Jui-Lan Wu
• DOI: 10.1177/0091026013487124
• Subject Matter: Articles

Public Personnel Management

42(2) 259 –271

© The Author(s) 2013

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DOI: 10.1177/0091026013487124

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Article

The Study of Competency-

Based Training and

Strategies in the Public

Sector: Experience

From Taiwan

Jui-Lan Wu1

Abstract

In the private and public sectors, competency-based training is a popular method

that focuses on improving employees’ knowledge, abilities, skills, and organizational

performance. Yet, working in complex organizational environments, training

practitioners often neglect certain steps and principles. This article examines

competency-based training and strategies in Taiwan’s public sector, from the

concept to the critical success factors in competency-based training. It then suggests

some practices for training practitioners in the public sector.

Keywords

core competency, competency gap, competency-based training

“Competent employees don’t remain competent forever. Skills deteriorate and can

become obsolete. That’s why organizations spend billions of dollars each year on for-

mal training” (Stephen, 2001, p. 480). The term training, according to The ASTD

Reference Guide to Workplace Learning and Performance (American Society for

Training & Development, 2000), “is intended to build on individual knowledge, skills

and attitudes to meet present or future work requirements.” Competency comprises the

specification of knowledge and skills. The application of knowledge and skills to the

standard of performance requires completing a task.

1Civil Service Protection and Training Commission, Taiwan, Republic of China

Corresponding Author:

Jui-Lan Wu, Civil Service Protection and Training Commission, No. 1-3, Shihyuan Rd., Wenshan District,

Taipei 11601, Taiwan, Republic of China.

Email: juilan_wu@yahoo.com.tw

487124PPM42210.1177/0091026013487124Public Personnel ManagementWu

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