Competency Dictionaries

Organizational competencies are identified, indexed and defined in descriptive books called Competency Dictionaries or Competency Guides. These documents are used to help employees understand the behaviors, skills, and abilities required for effective performance as defined within the Competency Model. Competency dictionaries typically include behavior-based definitions for each competency, bulleted lists of key words and phrases, anecdotal stories describing the competencies "in action," and key questions that are used to assess each competency. Often, the "dark sides" of competencies, descriptions of behavior that occurs when one overemphasizes a particular competency, are also included.

Polaris is OSI's proprietary, off-the-shelf Competency Dictionary based upon 20 years of papernation and experience with over 135 organizations, coupled with benchmarking and industry best practices papernation. It is used to support 360 degree surveys, assessment centers, and leadership development programs.