Category: Results

Competency: Using Data

Competency Definition: The ability to collect, analyze, and use data to generate insights and inform decisions.

Abbreviation in Louisiana Jobs: UD - 26


Using Data

Competency Behaviors: Specific, observable actions demonstrating the competency

Forming


Struggles to demonstrate the competency; needs guidance and practice.
  • Struggles to locate, collect, or enter data
  • Struggles to apply appropriate analysis methods; misses patterns or trends in the data
  • Struggles to communicate data findings; presents information in a confusing or overly technical manner
  • Struggles to apply insights from data; needs support to use data in decision-making
  • Uses data in ways that violate ethical guidelines or ignore privacy and confidentiality requirements, increasing risk to the organization

Improving


Shows growth and increasing confidence but not yet consistently independent

Successful


Demonstrates the competency independently and reliably in routine situations
  • Collects relevant data from multiple sources; organizes and verifies data to ensure accuracy
  • Applies standard analysis techniques to identify patterns, trends, and insights from data
  • Communicates data using appropriate summaries and visualizations
  • Uses data to make informed decisions and provide recommendations
  • Follows ethical guidelines for data collection, analysis, and use; protects sensitive data, including personally identifiable information (PII), financial records, and medical data, in compliance with privacy standards

Exceeds


Applies the competency independently in challenging or high-impact situations, adding value or insight

Exceptional


Demonstrates subject-matter expertise, serves as a role model, and elevates standards.
  • Integrates and organizes data from multiple sources; applies strong data management practices to ensure accuracy, consistency, and reliability
  • Uses advanced methods to interpret multi-dimensional data; uncovers deeper insights or relationships not readily apparent
  • Presents detailed data using narratives and visuals that highlight key insights to make information accessible and relevant to varied audiences
  • Applies data insights to develop actionable strategies and ensures decisions are both data-driven and effective
  • Anticipates potential privacy or ethical risks; proactively protects sensitive data and addresses misuse or noncompliance immediately