Capability vs. Competency: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sara Rehman || Published on November 10, 2023
"Capability" refers to the potential or ability one possesses, while "Competency" denotes the demonstrated skill or expertise in a specific area.
Key Differences
"Capability" implies a person's or organization's innate or acquired potential to accomplish something, even if that potential hasn't been realized yet. On the other hand, "Competency" refers to the specific skills or expertise that someone has already demonstrated, often within a professional or formal context.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
A person's "Capability" does not guarantee that they can perform tasks effectively now, but suggests they have the capacity to develop the necessary skills with time or training. In contrast, "Competency" is about current abilities and the application of knowledge and skills to meet standards consistently.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
"Capability" is a broader concept that can apply to various contexts and implies adaptability and the potential for growth or learning in any field. Conversely, "Competency" often relates to specific areas, tasks, or industries, and is usually measured against predefined standards or qualifications.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
In a work setting, "Capability" might suggest an employee has the potential for a promotion or to learn new skills because of their aptitude or previous accomplishments in other areas. "Competency", however, would be the set of specific skills or proficiencies that the employee already possesses, making them suitable for a role or task.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
When assessing "Capability", factors such as general intelligence, adaptability, and problem-solving skills might be considered. For "Competency", assessment would be more about checking whether an individual has the specific knowledge, behaviors, and skills necessary to perform tasks effectively in their role.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Measurement
More subjective, potential-based
Objective, often against set standards
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Scope
Broader, adaptable across contexts
Specific to tasks, roles, or industries
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
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Capability and Competency Definitions
Capability
Potential waiting to be used or developed.
Despite her young age, her artistic Capability is astounding.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
Competency
The skill, knowledge, or ability to do something successfully or efficiently.
Her Competency in negotiations led to the company's best quarter.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 20, 2023
Capability
The quality of being capable; aptitude.
His problem-solving Capability makes him an invaluable asset.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
Competency
A specific range of skill, knowledge, or ability.
Language Competency is a must for this translation job.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 20, 2023
Capability
The power or ability to do something.
The company has the Capability to revolutionize the industry.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
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Competency
Demonstrated ability to apply knowledge and skills.
His Competency in project management was evident from his successful track record.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
Capability
Often capabilities A talent or ability that has potential for development or use
A student of great capabilities.
Sara Rehman
Oct 13, 2023
Capability
The capacity to be used, treated, or developed for a specific purpose
Nuclear capability.
Sara Rehman
Oct 13, 2023
Capability
(computing) A digital token allowing a user or process to interact in a specified way with an object that is subject to access control.
Sara Rehman
Oct 13, 2023
Capability
The quality of being capable; capacity; capableness; esp. intellectual power or ability.
A capability to take a thousand views of a subject.
Sara Rehman
Oct 13, 2023
Capability
The quality of being capable -- physically or intellectually or legally;
He worked to the limits of his capability
Sara Rehman
Oct 13, 2023
Competency
The quality of being adequately or well qualified physically and intellectually
Sara Rehman
Oct 13, 2023
Capability
The susceptibility of something to a particular treatment;
The capability of a metal to be fused
Sara Rehman
Oct 13, 2023
Competency
The quality or state of being legally competent or qualified.
The court questioned the defendant's Competency to stand trial.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
Competency
An important skill that is needed to accomplish a specific task or function.
Digital literacy is a core Competency for the modern workforce.
Harlon Moss
Oct 20, 2023
Capability
The capacity to achieve results.
The team demonstrated its Capability by meeting tight deadlines.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
Capability
A feature or faculty capable of development.
The new software's capabilities include advanced data analysis tools.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
FAQs
Is "Capability" the same as talent?
Not exactly; while talent is innate, "Capability" can be both innate potential or developed ability.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Can "Competency" be learned?
Yes, "Competency" typically involves acquired knowledge and skills through learning.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Are "Competencies" job-specific?
Often, yes. "Competencies" are usually specific skills or knowledge necessary for a job.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Does "Capability" refer to future potential?
Yes, "Capability" often refers to one's capacity to grow, learn, or achieve in the future.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Can "Capability" be inherent?
Yes, "Capability" can be an inherent aptitude or potential one possesses.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Can "Competency" change over time?
Yes, "Competency" can improve with practice, learning, and experience.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Is "Capability" always tangible?
Not necessarily. "Capability" can refer to both tangible and intangible potentials.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
What's a "Competency framework"?
It's a structure that outlines the skills and behaviors required for a role or industry.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Do organizations have "Capabilities"?
Yes, in terms of resources, strengths, and potential to achieve objectives.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Is "Capability" related to skills?
It's broader, referring to overall potential, which may include various skills.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
How is "Competency" measured?
"Competency" is often measured against specific standards or through assessments.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Can "Capability" involve learning ability?
Yes, "Capability" often includes the potential to learn or adapt.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Can "Competencies" be innate?
They're usually acquired, but can be based on innate abilities.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Does "Capability" imply success?
Not guaranteed success, but the potential or capacity to achieve it.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Is "Capability" a static trait?
No, "Capability" can develop and expand over time.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Do "Competencies" require validation?
Often, yes. "Competencies" are usually validated through assessment or demonstration.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Are "Competencies" always technical?
No, "Competencies" can also be behavioral, like leadership or communication skills.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Is "Competency" demonstrated through action?
Yes, "Competency" is typically shown through successful task performance.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Can "Capability" be a collective attribute for teams?
Absolutely, teams can have collective "Capabilities" or potential.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Are "Competencies" linked to qualifications?
They can be, especially in professional or educational contexts.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sara RehmanSara Rehman is a seasoned writer and editor with extensive experience at Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Information Technology, she combines her academic prowess with her passion for writing to deliver insightful and well-researched content.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
