Competencies are general descriptions of the abilities needed to perform a role in the organization. Competencies are described in terms such that they can be measured. It's useful to compare competencies to job descriptions. Job descriptions typically list the tasks or functions and responsibilities for a role, whereas competencies list the abilities needed to conduct those tasks or functions. Consequently, competencies are often used as a basis for training by converting competencies to learning objectives. Compare them to job descriptions. As with job descriptions, there are those who have strong cautions about the use of competencies.