Abstract

Professional competencies serve to demonstrate and develop expertise. As such, the study summarized theories on the concept of competency and competency model development and utilization, proposing ways to utilize the competency system to strengthen domestic archivists’ expertise through a case study of international archivist competency systems. Five competency frameworks for archivists developed by international archivist associations were analyzed. Results showed that the archival profession’s competency frameworks were primarily utilized in two ways. First, they are used to verify professional definitions, which are used as verification standards for registering certified professionals at the archivist association level. Second, they are used to enhance expertise in conjunction with individual professional self-assessment and continuing professional development program design. These two applications can operate in a complementary relationship to utilize the competency framework in demonstrating and strengthening competencies.