Workforce and Succession Planning

Succession Planning Model

Succession Planning identifies necessary competencies and works to assess, develop,
and retain a talent pool of employees in order to ensure a continuity of leadership for all
critical positions.

Step 1 – Identify Key Positions

Succession Planning identifies necessary competencies within key positions that have a significant
impact on the organization. Criteria for key positions may include:

• Positions that require specialized job skills or expertise.
• High-level leadership positions.
• Positions that are considered “mission-critical” to the organization.

Step 2 – Build Job Profiles for each Key Position

Determine the key success factors of the job and how proficient the job holder would need to be.
This information can be obtained several ways, including performing job analysis or gathering critical
information during the performance appraisal process. The information that should be gathered
includes the knowledge, skills, abilities, and attributes that the current employee in a position
possesses that allow for the competent and efficient performance of the functions.

Step 3 – Competency Gap Analysis

• Using the job profile of competencies determine the tool required to gather data on current
  employee competencies for the key positions
• Analyze the difference between current employee competencies and future needs
• Document findings for development opportunities

Step 4 – Development Opportunities

• Assess the abilities and career interests of employees
• Candidates should demonstrate high potential or ability that will enable them to achieve
  success at a higher level within the organization. Preferably, the list of possible replacements
  should be stored in a database so that the organization can easily track candidates.

Step 5 – Individual Development Plans

• Design a plan for each candidate – developmental plans should be available for candidates
  and then incorporated into their performance management plans. Plans may include
  identifying career paths for high-potential candidates and others who have the interest and
  ability to move upward in the organization
• Provide development opportunities – This can be accomplished through job assignments,
  training, or job rotation, and it is one of the best ways for employees to gain additional
  knowledge and skills

Step 6 – Maintain Skills Inventory

• Continually monitor skills and needs to determine any gaps and develop plans to meet
  deficiencies
• Keep an inventory of current and future needs and maintain the information for individual and
  group development