How to choose the right competency management software for your business

Choosing the best competency management software is more than a straightforward tech decision. It’s a mission-critical choice that impacts productivity, workplace safety, and compliance requirements. Even more so in safety-sensitive industries like construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure. 
However, try googling 'competency management software', and you'll be presented with thousands of results. With so many tools out there, getting started is challenging, right? Today’s post takes care of the guesswork as we share what to look for in a competency management tool.

1. Industry-specific features

Coming in at the top spot is industry fit. Generic competency management solutions will do the job. However, they may miss the mark when it comes to your industry’s standards and regulations. High-risk industries need a solution that offers compliance tracking, certification management and automated reminders for expiring verifications of competence

2. Easy to use

A clunky system that’s hard to navigate just leads to low take-up and is likely to end up on the tech scrap heap. The right software is simple to use, whether on a desktop, mobile device, tablet, or laptop. Furthermore, supervisors and managers in the field need on-the-go access, so mobile accessibility and a user-friendly interface are must-have features. ​

3. Real-time reporting

Next on the list is real-time reporting. When you're managing multiple worksites or contractors, live data is crucial. You need to know who is qualified and, perhaps more importantly, who isn't at a moment’s notice. Look for a solution that gives you instant visibility into the status of your workers.  
And real-time reporting is also critical when it comes to compliance. The best competency management tools can track certifications and approvals and produce reports demonstrating compliance to auditors. Not only will this handy feature save you time, but it’s also more accurate than manual systems. 

4. Customisation

When drawing up a shortlist of potential software, look for platforms that you can customise and integrate. You want to be able to create training plans, skills matrix templates, and competency assessments that meet your company’s unique needs.
The right tool will also integrate with your existing systems, so there’s no more time-consuming double-handling of data.

5. Scalable

Your business will grow and change, and so should the competency management platform. You need a solution that’s capable of growing and adapting alongside you, whether you’re expanding operations, facing new compliance challenges, or onboarding subcontractors. ​

CheckSafe’s real-time workplace skills management software

​Ready to take the next step? Use our five top tips to help refine your search. 
And why not get started by checking out the easy-to-use CheckSafe platform. Proudly NZ-owned and operated, CheckSafe is designed specifically for New Zealand businesses and local compliance requirements.  
When it comes to selecting the right competency management software, CheckSafe is a fantastic place to start. Sign up today for a free demo.