The global skills and competency framework for the digital world

Information content authoring INCA

The application of the principles and practices of authoring, designing, controlling, and presenting textual information (supported where necessary by graphical content) to meet the requirements of intended audience(s). This information may be delivered via digital, print, or other medium. Management of the authoring process and the interaction with editorial and publication processes.

Moving to SFIA 8 

There is an updated version of this skill for SFIA 8. 

  • The skill descriptions have been edited for readability and guidance notes have been added 
  • Details available here - SFIA 8 Content authoring
  • SFIA 7 skill descriptions will remain available for you to use 
  • Previous SFIA assessments are not impacted by this change. 

Levels

Defined at these levels: 1 2 3 4 5 6

Information content authoring: Level 1

Contributes, under instruction, to the generation of content, and to configuration of content items and files. Executes pre-planned testing activities under supervision, recording findings.

Information content authoring: Level 2

Develops an understanding of content development and authoring activities, such as information gathering, creating draft content, identifying appropriate illustrations, and proper treatment of copyright and considering the publication medium(s). Works with colleagues and clients to understand audience needs and to assimilate source material. Creates draft materials that present information clearly, concisely and accurately in appropriate plain language, which meets the requirements of the audience(s) as clearly, simply and quickly as possible. Applies guidelines and standards to moderate content from others, escalating where appropriate.

Information content authoring: Level 3

Liaises with clients and representatives of the intended audience(s) to clarify detailed requirements. Designs, creates, controls and evaluates moderately-complex subject matter ensuring the needs of the audience(s) are met in a manner appropriate to the medium(s) in use. Makes informed decisions about the best way to present information to the audience(s), taking into consideration how information may be presented, identified, and searched for. Produces information artefacts that are accurate, current, relevant and easily understood by the intended audience(s). Applies moderation and editing processes to content supplied by others.

Information content authoring: Level 4

Controls, monitors and evaluates content to ensure quality, consistency and accessibility of messages. Designs the content and appearance of complex information deliverables (for example, collections of artefacts, which maybe spread across multiple mediums) in collaboration with clients and/or representatives of the intended audience(s). Moderates content (in both draft and published forms) and ensures content can be re-purposed appropriately. Creates and evaluates complex, well-engineered deliverables, ensuring alignment with the agreed requirements, making optimal use of the chosen medium(s). Reviews work of other content designers and authors for consistency and accuracy, and takes responsibility for ensuring appropriate publication. Understands the implications of publishing content and manages the associated risks.

Information content authoring: Level 5

Provides overall editorial control across the team or teams of content designers and authors, to ensure appropriate content, tone, brevity, consistency and re-use. Advises on appropriate content formats and mediums, and oversees the review and approval of materials to enable requirements to be satisfied. Develops and maintains content plans showing how the identified audience needs will be met.

Information content authoring: Level 6

Oversees content development activities, ensuring that adequate procedures, standards, tools and resources are in place and implemented to ensure the appropriate quality of material developed by content creators within the organisation. Champions the use of clear language and sets the quality standards for drafting and final copy. Manages relationships with stakeholders, ensuring they receive the information they need.

Information content authoring: Level 7

This skill is not typically observed when working at this level of responsibility.