Content Model Summary

The O*NET® Content Model

Summary Outline

The Content Model is the conceptual foundation of O*NET. The Content Model provides a framework that

identifies the most important types of information about work and integrates them into a theoretically and

empirically sound system.

The Content Model was developed using research on job and organizational analysis. It embodies a view

that reflects the character of occupations (via job-oriented descriptors) and people (via worker-oriented

descriptors). The Content Model also allows occupational information to be applied across jobs, sectors,

or industries (cross-occupational descriptors) and within occupations (occupational-specific descriptors).

These descriptors are organized into six major domains, which enable the user to focus on areas of

information that specify the key attributes and characteristics of workers and occupations.

Worker Characteristics — enduring characteristics that may influence both work performance and

the capacity to acquire knowledge and skills required for effective work performance.

Abilities — Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance

Occupational Interests — Preferences for work environments. Occupational Interest Profiles

(OIPs) are compatible with Holland's (1985, 1997) model of personality types and work

environments.

Work Values — Global aspects of work composed of specific needs that are important to a

person's satisfaction. Occupational Reinforcer Patterns (ORPs) are based on the Theory of

Work Adjustment (Dawis & Lofquist, 1984).

Work Styles — Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Worker Requirements — descriptors referring to work-related attributes acquired and/or developed

through experience and education.

Prepared by the National Center for O*NET Development for USDOL

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Basic Skills — Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of

knowledge...