Skill Matrix
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A skill matrix is a visual tool showing team members' competency levels across required skills to identify gaps and guide development.
Definition
A skill matrix is a visual tool that maps team members against required skills, showing each person's competency level. Typically displayed using symbols (empty circle, half-filled, full, with star for trainer-capable), the matrix reveals at a glance who can perform which tasks and where gaps exist. It guides cross-training priorities, identifies single-points-of-failure (skills only one person has), and supports workforce planning. The visual nature makes capability visible to everyone and creates accountability for development.
Examples
A cell's skill matrix showed 12 skills across 8 operators. Three skills had only one qualified person (single points of failure), identified for immediate cross-training. Two operators lacked certification on quality inspection, explaining recent escapes. The visual drove concrete development actions.
Key Points
- Visual display of people vs. skills with competency indicators
- Common scale: novice, competent, proficient, can train others
- Reveals single points of failure requiring cross-training
- Drives development planning and workforce flexibility
Common Misconceptions
Skill matrices are for HR tracking. The matrix belongs to the team, displayed at the work area. It's a daily management tool for coverage decisions and development conversations, not an HR file.
Everyone should be fully skilled in everything. Complete cross-training is rarely practical or needed. The goal is sufficient coverage and elimination of single points of failure—typically 2-3 people capable of each critical skill.