This document provides guidance to ISO/TCs on the differences between management system and competency based standards in a Frequently Asked Question format.

ISO/TCs are often required to choose between developing requirements for a management system for an organization’s activities or developing requirements for the competence of an organization to carry out its activities.

The aim is to provide assistance to ISO/TCs in understanding:

- The difference between management system and competency based standards
- The types of activities to which they can apply
- Their outcomes when properly implemented