Unit of competency details

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a Unit of Competency

Performance criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised  text is used, further information is detailed in the Range Statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the Evidence Guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1 Plan the production of communication materials 

1.1 Production of communication materials  is planned in accordance with marketing and communication plans and job requirements.

1.2 Key council dates and initiatives are taken into account when planning production.

1.3 Production schedules are organised to ensure planned communication materials are available at the required time.

1.4 Resources  are identified and accessed.

2 Prepare information for communication materials 

2.1 Information is written and presented in a clear and easily understood format suitable for the audience.

2.2 Information is checked for accuracy, completeness and format.

2.3 Final copy is produced which presents accurate and clear information according to council policy.

3 Obtain quotations for production as appropriate 

3.1 Accurate specifications  are provided to quoting organisations.

3.2 Comprehensive quotations are obtained with full details of potential variations to cost and conditions that may apply.

4 Coordinate the production of communication materials 

4.1 All copy is thoroughly checked for accuracy prior to submission to internal or external producer. 

4.2 Liaison is undertaken with producer in a manner that permits accurate monitoring of production schedules.

4.3 Contingency plans are put in place to allow for situations where time lines may be exceeded.

4.4 All production work is fully checked and corrected as required.

4.5 Final communication materials are rechecked and approved for distribution and payment by appropriate authority when accurate.

4.6 Communication materials are distributed in accordance with job requirements.

4.7 Contingency plans are put in place to allow for situations where time lines may be exceeded.

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit

Required Skills 

• creative writing of copy
• attention to detail
• liaison with printers
• analysing quotations
• writing using plain English
• using computer software

Required Knowledge 

• design techniques
• production techniques and methods
• council policy relating to provision of information
• council procedures relevant to production

Overview of assessment requirements 

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit will be able to perform the outcomes described in the Elements to the required performance level detailed in the Performance Criteria. The knowledge and skill requirements described in the Range Statement must also be demonstrated. For example, knowledge of the legislative framework and safe work practices that underpin the performance of the unit are also required to be demonstrated.

Critical aspects of evidence to be considered 

The demonstrated ability to:

• plan the production of a range of communication materials to ensure their availability at the required time
• produce a range of communication materials that are accurate, complete and in the appropriate format
• prepare comprehensive and accurate specifications which cover contingencies to obtain comprehensive quotations for the communication task
• coordinate the production of a range of communication materials in line with council procedures

Context of assessment 

Competency is demonstrated by performance of all stated criteria, with particular attention to the critical aspects of evidence and the knowledge and skills elaborated in the Evidence Guide, and within the scope of the Range Statement.

Assessment must take account of the endorsed Assessment Guidelines in the Local Government Training Package.

Assessment of performance requirements in this unit should be undertaken in an actual workplace or simulated environment.

Assessment should reinforce the integration of the key competencies for the particular AQF level. Refer to the key competency levels at the end of this unit.

Relationship to other units (prerequisite or co-requisite units )

To enable holistic assessment this unit may be assessed with other units that form part of the job role.

Method of assessment 

The following assessment methods are suggested:

• observation of the learner performing a range of workplace tasks over sufficient time to demonstrate handling of a range of contingencies
• written and/or oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding
• completion of workplace documentation
• third-party reports from experienced practitioners
• completion of self-paced learning materials including personal reflection and feedback from trainer, coach or supervisor

Evidence required for demonstration of consistent performance 

Evidence should be collected over a set period of time that is sufficient to include dealings with an appropriate range and variety of situations.

Resource implications 

The learner and trainer should have access to appropriate documentation and resources normally used in the workplace.

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised  wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Communication materials  may include:

• fliers
• brochures
• pamphlets
• media products
• press releases
• posters
• kits
• production materials
• invitations
• presentations and demonstrations
• audio and videotapes
• electronic press hits
• web sites
• guidance materials
• community programs
• descriptions
• labels

Resources  may include:

• equipment required
• materials needed
• basis of information
• sources of information
• human resource assistance

Accurate specifications  may include:

• time
• quality of stock
• style of brochure
• number of photographs
• ink colours
• style copy to be provided in
• medium copy to be provided in
• binding or stapling required

Internal or external producers  may include:

• printers
• art houses
• information technology specialists
• consultants, including media consultants
• designers
• journalists