The ICAEW launched their Spreadsheet Competency Framework on 6th July 2016
In the words of the ICAEW: “The framework is a structure for assessing ability and proficiency when using spreadsheets, and can be used by recruitment agencies, companies, job seekers, training providers and anyone else who uses spreadsheets to carry out their role.”
It is a well-known phenomenon (Dunning–Kruger effect) that people cannot easily judge their own ability. The Spreadsheet Competency Framework will certainly help to address this issue.
The framework also groups user spreadsheet skill sets into four category of users: “Basic user”, “General user”, “Creator” and “Developer”. This acknowledges the fact that not all users need to be Excel Gurus, they only need the skills required to fulfil their role.
The framework provides a clear basis to assess people that you are looking to recruit but also, and I think more importantly, a basis to assess yourself and members of your team as part of your annual reviews.
For more information about the Spreadsheet Competency Framework visit their website here.