Explore category - Work Activities

Skills and Competencies Taxonomy 2025 Version 1.0

General types of work-related activities.

Information-Oriented Activities

Information and data management and processing activities that are necessary to meet the requirements of the job.

Descriptor	Definition
Getting InformationGetting Information[Endnotes] Endnotes - Getting Information The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Observing, receiving, or obtaining information from all relevant sources.”	Observing, receiving or obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Monitoring Processes, Materials or SystemsMonitoring Processes, Materials or Systems[Endnotes] Endnotes - Monitoring Processes, Materials or Systems The label and definition of the descriptor were updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings: Tracking and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment to detect or assess problems and progress.”	Tracking and reviewing information regularly from processes, materials, equipment, events, environments, people, conditions, projects, products, programs or policies to assess their status, monitor progress or identify potential issues.
Analyzing Data or Information	Identifying the underlying principles, reasons or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Developing Technical InstructionsDeveloping Technical Instructions[Endnotes] Endnotes - Developing Technical Instructions The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.” For the purposes of the Taxonomy, the label of the O*NET descriptor “Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Designing Technical Equipment” has been changed to “Developing Technical Instructions.” The French translation is “Développer des instructions techniques.”	Providing detailed instructions, drawings, specifications or other documentation to inform how devices, parts, equipment or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained or used.
Documenting and Recording InformationDocumenting and Recording Information[Endnotes] Endnotes - Documenting and Recording Information In the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy version 2019, this descriptor was labelled “Documenting Information” and placed under the subcategory Work Output. In version 2023, this descriptor was merged with “Clerical Activities.” In version 2025, it has been reinstated as its own descriptor, “Documenting and Recording Information”, under the subcategory Information-Oriented Activities. O*NET labelled this descriptor “Documenting/Recording Information.”	Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written, electronic or magnetic form.
Performing Administrative ActivitiesPerforming Administrative Activities[Endnotes] Endnotes - Performing Administrative Activities The label and definition of the descriptor were updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Clerical Activities: Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining all types of information in written or electronic form.’’	Performing daily administrative activities that support the efficient operation of an office such as answering, screening and dispatching calls, photocopying, scanning, faxing documents, checking, receiving and sending mail and emails, and obtaining approvals and signatures.
Identifying Objects, Actions and EventsIdentifying Objects, Actions and Events[Endnotes] Endnotes - Identifying Objects, Actions and Events The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Identifying information by categorizing, recognizing differences or similarities, measuring, investigating, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.”	Identifying information by categorizing, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in facts, conditions or situations.
Estimating Quantifiable Characteristics	Estimating cost, resources or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures or MaterialInspecting Equipment, Structures or Material[Endnotes] Endnotes - Inspecting Equipment, Structures or Material The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Inspecting equipment, structures, or material to identify the cause of errors, problems, or defects.”	Observing or testing the condition of equipment, structures or materials to identify any defects, faults, signs of damage, wear and tear or non-compliance and to ensure operational efficiency.
Processing InformationProcessing Information[Endnotes] Endnotes - Processing Information The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Compiling, categorizing, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.”	Compiling, classifying, tabulating, coding or verifying information or data.
Writing or ComposingWriting or Composing[Endnotes] Endnotes - Writing or Composing In the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy version 2025, the descriptor was moved from Work Activities' subcategory Physically-Oriented Activities to Information-Oriented Activities- and its definition was slightly modified to provide clarifications. The previous definition was: "Writing or composing original material using symbols such as letters of the alphabet or musical notation to communicate thoughts and ideas in a readable or audible form."	Write texts or content for educational, operational, legislative, scientific, public policy, entertainment, artistic or promotional purposes, including musical composition.

Physically-Oriented Activities

The physical activities that are performed, equipment and vehicles that are operated or any other technical activities accomplished to meet the requirements of the job.

Descriptor	Definition
Handling and Manipulating ObjectsHandling and Manipulating Objects[Endnotes] Endnotes - Handling and Manipulating Objects The label and definition of the descriptor were updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Handling and Moving Objects: Using hands and arms to install, fabricate and, repair objects; or to move or manipulate objects and materials (excluding construction occupations)."	Using hands, hand-held or power tools to install, fabricate, maintain, clean, repair, place, move or manipulate objects or materials.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices or Equipment	Manoeuvring, navigating or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft or watercraft.
Controlling Machines and Processes	Using mechanisms or physical activity to control the operation of machines (excluding computers or vehicles) or processes.
Performing Physical ActivitiesPerforming Physical Activities[Endnotes] Endnotes - Performing Physical Activities The label and definition of the descriptor were updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Performing General Physical Activities: Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials."	Performing activities requiring physical effort and the use of arms and legs or movement of the whole body.
Electronic MaintenanceElectronic Maintenance[Endnotes] Endnotes - Electronic Maintenance For the purposes of the Taxonomy, the label of the O*NET descriptor “Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment” has been changed to “Electronic Maintenance.” The French translation is “Entretien électronique.”	Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning or testing machines, devices and equipment that operate on electrical or electronic principles.
Mechanical MaintenanceMechanical Maintenance[Endnotes] Endnotes - Mechanical Maintenance For the purposes of the Taxonomy, the label of the O*NET descriptor “Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment” has been changed to “Mechanical Maintenance.” The French translation is “Entretien Mécanique.”	Servicing, repairing, adjusting or testing machines, devices, moving parts and equipment that operate on mechanical principles.

Mental Process-Oriented Activities

The processing, planning, problem solving and decision-making activities that are necessary for the overall completion of a job.

Descriptor	Definition
Judging QualityJudging Quality[Endnotes] Endnotes - Judging Quality The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Assessing the value, importance or quality of materials, products, services or people.”	Determining the value, merit, importance or quality of materials, products, services or individuals.
EvaluatingEvaluating[Endnotes] Endnotes - Evaluating The label and definition of the descriptor were updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance: Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards."	Assessing products, services, processes, programs or policies systemically to determine their effectiveness, value, impact, performance or compliance with established objectives, standards or regulations.
CalculatingCalculating[Endnotes] Endnotes - Calculating The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Performing, interpreting, and reporting mathematical operations as part of work tasks.”	Performing mathematical operations by applying rules corresponding to assigned operational tasks.
Making DecisionsMaking Decisions[Endnotes] Endnotes - Making Decisions The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Choose the best solution based on the analysis of information and the evaluation of potential results.”	Choosing the best options to be implemented based on the analysis of information and the evaluation of potential outcomes.
Thinking Creatively	Generating innovative or creative ideas to develop or design new application, products, including artistic contributions.
Setting Objectives and Formulating StrategiesSetting Objectives and Formulating Strategies[Endnotes] Endnotes - Setting Objectives and Formulating Strategies The label and definition of the descriptor were updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Developing Objectives and Strategies: Define and establish short, medium, or long-term objectives and determine strategies and actions to achieve them.’’	Establishing short, medium, or long-term vision, goals or objectives and determining overarching strategies to achieve them.
Updating and Applying Knowledge Updating and Applying Knowledge [Endnotes] Endnotes - Updating and Applying Knowledge The label and definition of the descriptor were updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Applying New Knowledge: Keep up-to-date on relevant theorical and technical knowledge and apply them at work.”	Acquiring and maintaining job-relevant theoretical and technical knowledge and applying it with discernment based on context.
Examining and DiagnosingExamining and Diagnosing[Endnotes] Endnotes - Examining and Diagnosing The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Assessing the human, animal, technical, or scientific dimensions of a problem through examination or diagnostic testing in order to determine its root cause and appropriate intervention (excluding all forms of interviews).”	Assessing conditions through examination or testing and make a diagnosis for the appropriate treatments or intervention to be developed when relevant.
Managing ResourcesManaging Resources[Endnotes] Endnotes - Managing Resources For the purposes of the Taxonomy, the label of the O*NET descriptor “Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money” has been changed to “Managing Resources.” The French translation is “Gérer des ressources.”	Determining, acquiring, monitoring and controlling any kind of resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Planning and OrganizingPlanning and Organizing[Endnotes] Endnotes - Planning and Organizing For the purposes of the Taxonomy, the label of the O*NET descriptor “Organizing, Planning and Prioritizing Work” has been changed to “Planning and Organizing." The French translation is labelled “Planifier et organiser.”	Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize and organize tasks to get the work done.
Scheduling Work and Activities	Scheduling events, programs and activities, as well as the work of others.

People-Oriented Activities

The activities where social interaction with others is necessary to meet the requirements of the job.

Descriptor	Definition
Communicating with CoworkersCommunicating with Coworkers[Endnotes] Endnotes - Communicating with Coworkers For the purposes of the Taxonomy, the title of the O*NET descriptor “Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates” has been changed to “Communicating with Coworkers." The French translation is titled “Communiquer avec les collègues de travail."	Sharing or providing information or advice to management, supervisors, coworkers and subordinates on work related topics.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others	Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others	Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Protecting and Enforcing RulesProtecting and Enforcing Rules[Endnotes] Endnotes - Protecting and Enforcing Rules The label and definition of the descriptor were updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “ Protecting and Enforcing: Responding to public safety, security and cybersecurity needs, and promoting and ensuring compliance to rules, standards or laws to protect the general population from all kinds of significant danger (excluding medical treatments).’’	Responding to public safety, security and cybersecurity needs and enforcing compliance with rules, standards, regulations and laws.
Communicating with Persons Outside Organization	Sharing or exchanging information with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government or other external sources.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	Developing respectful, constructive and cooperative working relationships with others and maintaining them over time.
Selling or Influencing Others	Convincing others to buy goods or services, or to change their minds or actions.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public	Working or interacting directly with the public or performing for public audiences.
Assisting and Caring for Others	Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support or other care to customers, clients or patients.
Coaching and Developing OthersCoaching and Developing Others[Endnotes] Endnotes - Coaching and Developing Others The O*NET descriptor title, "Coaching and Developing Others" has been translated into French as "Encadrer et former des personnes."	Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Providing Consultation and AdviceProviding Consultation and Advice[Endnotes] Endnotes - Providing Consultation and Advice The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems, or process related topics.”	Providing recommendations, guidance or advice within their area of expertise to management, groups, stakeholders, businesses, professionals and individuals.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others	Handling complaints, settling disputes and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Supervising SubordinatesSupervising Subordinates[Endnotes] Endnotes - Supervising Subordinates For the purposes of the Taxonomy, the title of the O*NET descriptor “Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates” has been changed to “Supervising Subordinates." The French translation is titled “Superviser des subalternes."	Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including the establishment of work outcomes for performance monitoring.
Team Building	Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect and cooperation among team members.
Training and Teaching	Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes and teaching or instructing others.
StaffingStaffing[Endnotes] Endnotes - Staffing The descriptor's definition was updated in the 2025 version of the Skills and Competencies Taxonomy to clarify the previous wording, which was: “Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization. (excluding non-recruitment interviews).”	Recruiting, interviewing, selecting and hiring personnel, promoting and retaining employees, and ensuring that human resources are assigned to the right roles with the required competencies.