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Design and development of a capability framework and self-assessment tool

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Executive summary 

This case study delves into Curio Group’s strategic partnership with CPA Australia, focusing on revolutionising the organization’s professional development landscape amidst a rapidly evolving accounting industry. Through the development of a robust capability framework and the implementation of tailored professional development solutions, Curio empowered CPA Australia to navigate the changing landscape with confidence. 

 

Client background 

CPA Australia, a renowned professional accounting body with a global membership base, faced the challenge of adapting to technological advancements and shifting market dynamics. Recognising the need to equip its members with future-focused skills, CPA Australia sought Curio Group’s expertise to redefine its educational content and delivery mechanisms. 

 

Challenges and objectives 

CPA Australia’s primary challenge was to align its professional development offerings with the emerging demands of the accounting profession. The objective was to develop a comprehensive capability mapping framework that would enable members to identify and cultivate the skills needed to excel in a dynamic industry landscape. 


Solution provided 

Curio Group collaborated closely with CPA Australia to develop a future-focused capability framework, meticulously mapping out essential competencies required for success in the evolving accounting sector. Leveraging this framework, Curio designed tailored micro-credential programmes and on-demand assessments, aligning with identified skill gaps within the membership.


                       Development and validation of a capability framework


Curio worked in close collaboration with the Education Services business across two projects to develop a capability framework and a self-assessment tool. What we did: 

  • Consult with stakeholders to identify core capabilities and skills required across the profession 
  • Develop capabilities, elements and statements 
  • Test and validate with stakeholders to iterate on a framework 
  • Conduct user research and design prototypes and wireframes for a self-assessment tool 
  • Conduct several member interviews to test prototypes and ideate a solution 
  • Develop a product roadmap with additional features incorporated in release phases 
  • Develop the tool in an iterative fashion 


Upon completion of both projects, the organisation has implemented and rolled out an industry-leading framework that aligns members with key capabilities. Members now have the ability to self-assess to identify their areas of strength and development and access organisation-specific learning resources from the tool.


                            Development and validation of a capability framework


Automating this capability mapping allowed members to create a personalised learning plan based on their present experiences, their development goals, and their career aims. Linking the capability framework to CPA’s professional development courses allows members to take greater advantage of CPA’s membership offerings and dynamically advance their careers. 

 

Results and Impact 

The implementation of Curio Group’s solutions yielded transformative results for CPA Australia and its members. The capability mapping framework empowered members to gain clarity on their current skill sets and chart personalised development pathways. As a result, CPA members experienced enhanced adaptability, increased competence, and heightened confidence in navigating the complexities of the modern accounting landscape. 

 

                      Development and validation of a capability framework

 

Curio Group’s strategic partnership with CPA Australia underscores the importance of capability mapping in driving meaningful professional development initiatives. Organisations seeking to adapt to industry shifts and equip their members with future-ready skills are encouraged to explore similar capability-driven approaches to foster continuous growth and innovation.  





about the writer

Matthew Hall

Lead Consultant

Matthew helps teams grow and enables talented Learning Designers to excel. Matthew is most fully engaged on dynamic, pedagogically challenging and creative projects and he loves working with clients to solve difficult problems, especially to do with the scale and speed of their online growth. Learn more about Matthew

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