| 1.3.7 Research, Analysis and Information Management Skills |
Research, analysis and information management skills measure the
investigative skills required of the position. Here we are dealing with
formal, structured investigation and analysis, not mere looking up of
information in directories, files, etc, nor mere enquiry such as
’how much is the cheapest airfare to a particular destination’.
Research can include for example pure research in an academic sense,
new product development, and market research. Analysis can include for
example analysis into improved operational methods or organisation
structures, analysis of a purely technical nature such as investment or
laboratory analysis, and analysis of a more subjective nature such as
competitor analysis. Information management to support effective decision making includes defining information needs, researching information sources, gathering information, evaluating information, analysing information, and drawing conclusions from information.
When selecting the level for this factor, consider only the types of
research, analysis or information management activities that the position
will most frequently encounter. Do not consider rare or infrequent
occurrences at a higher level, unless the position is specifically
designed to cater for such less frequent higher level occurrences at
a fully competent level.
Table 1.3.7 Research, Analysis and Information Management Skills
| Level | Description |
| 1 |
The position is not one that deals with research or analysis activities.
|
| 2 |
Basic collection of information, primarily of one type, eg sales figures, pollen count, consumer item usage level, etc, from readily accessible sources, without interpretation of the information collected. Here information would be extracted from documents or computer files, or from online searches; or obtained through preset questionnaires. The data thus collected would be organised and analysed by others. |
| 3 |
Collating and organising information from diverse sources, without analysis of the information. Here information would be extracted from sources such as documents, computer files, online searches, archives, or through structured interviews. The data thus collected would be logically organised in preparation for analysis by others.
|
| 4 |
Standardised analysis of data using prescribed analysis tools, such as standardised laboratory tests, quality control tests, use of basic statistical methods such as averages and confidence ranges. Conclusions drawn fall into a set of expected outcomes. There is no subjectivity in the conclusions drawn from such analysis. |
| 5 |
Non-standard analysis of data where a range of analysis tools needs to be selected from to assess the data. The position may need to specify the data to be collected using standardised collection methodologies. Some subjectivity may be present in the conclusions drawn. Examples include assessment of financial statements and sales data.
|
| 6 |
Analysing information using advanced procedures. Here analysis may include advanced statistical routines, analysis of markets, or evaluating the effects of a significant re-organisation (not mere reshuffling). May specify the data to be sought and design the data collection methodology.
|
| 7 |
Formulating and testing hypotheses. Examples include assessing the
impact of a new product or competitor in the market, assessing a potential
takeover or merger.
|
| 8 |
Postulating theories. Examples include assessing the impact of
internationalisation of a business activity, or in a purely technical
sense, postulating a theory of physical science. |
Copyright (C)
2001 National Remuneration Centre, Melbourne, Australia.
All rights reserved.
