This snapshot, taken on 01/07/2007, shows web content selected for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search boxes may not work in archived websites.
We recognise that many experienced IA practitioners have a wealth of experience from which to prove their competence, and may wish to call on their experience from a number of different projects in their ITPC submission. This may apply particularly to more senior staff or those whose role is more consultancy–based, as they are often called in to address specific issues.
Waiver candidates intending to complete the dissertation process simply provide brief factual statements against each ITPC core competency to show how they meet it in general terms, but without full background supporting evidence. The competency form requires a reasoned case for each: simply giving a factual statement of what you have done would not be adequate and would result in a fail.
It depends on your individual circumstances. You can use a different project or area of work to illustrate each core competency on the form, or you may use the same one for all – or anything in between. However, if you elect to use the same one for all, you would probably find the dissertation process more appropriate. If you do opt for the dissertation process, you do not need to describe a single project (in project management terms): you could discuss different aspects of your work along a related theme.
Absolutely not. Completion of the competency form is no easier than the dissertation, and ITPC requires the same standards whichever process is used. Depending on your individual circumstances you may find one or the other process more appropriate.
The same group of examiners are used to mark all submissions, whether training or waiver route, and whether following the dissertation or competency form process. Examiners meet regularly to discuss their work and resolve any concerns. Feedback to unsuccessful candidates will be in the same format, regardless of submission process. The ITPC Secretariat also carries out comparison checks to ensure examiners are applying consistent standards.
Yes. You can submit the form in place of your dissertation.
Yes, if you prefer. If you have failed on just one or two competencies you will probably find it easier to amend your dissertation and resubmit. If your dissertation had a number of problems (eg general lack of evidence) then you may wish to consider using the competency form – the choice is yours.
We have introduced the competency form because we recognise that many experienced IA practitioners have a wealth of experience from which to prove their competence, and may wish to call on their experience from a number of different projects in their ITPC submission. However, this is not the case with training route candidates, who have developed their knowledge through attending approved courses and are putting this into practice in their work.