This unit applies to a range of financial services job roles involving research functions.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Interpret available information and conduct research

1.1. Timelines are established to meet research requirement deadlines

1.2. Relevant sources of information are identified accurately and consistently, and required information can be sourced and retrieved readily and promptly

1.3. Sources of research information and documentation are constantly reviewed to ensure currency and accuracy

1.4. Research findings logically flow from the interpretation of information available and are prepared in a detailed, clear, accurate and timely format

2. Analyse and review research findings and activities

2.1. Research activities and outcomes are consistent with organisation policy and guidelines, confidentiality requirements, and with relevant legislation or industry codes of practice

2.2. Research findings and activities are analysed and reviewed to ensure accuracy and thoroughness

2.3. The adequacy of statutory disclosures is reviewed to maintain consistency and compliance

2.4. Feedback is regularly sought to monitor the effectiveness and appropriateness of research activities

3. Document research and distribute to relevant parties

3.1. All research is checked to ensure compliance with organisation policy and guidelines, and with relevant legislation or industry codes of practice, and is authorised before release

3.2. Research is distributed to all relevant parties as required in a timely manner

3.3. Confirmation of receipt of research information is obtained where relevant in order to complete organisation records of compliance

Required skills

communication skills to:

determine and confirm research requirements, using questioning and active listening as required

liaise with others, share information, listen and understand

use language and concepts appropriate to cultural differences

well-developed researchand analysisforaccessing, interpreting and managing complex information

interpreting a range of documentation

coordinating tasks

numeracy and IT skills for:

identifying and using research and analysis tools

accessing and using appropriate software such as word processors, spreadsheets and databases

using internet information

problem solving skills to identify any issues that have the potential to impact on the research and analysis process or outcome and to develop options to resolve these issues when they arise

organisational skills, including the ability to plan and sequence work

Required knowledge

current economic climate and outlook

financial forecasting techniques and tools

local and international financial markets and investments

organisation policy, procedures and requirements

relevant industry legislation and codes of practice

techniques and tools for evaluation and interpretation of research data

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the ability to:

establish and meet required research deadlines

interpret andcomply with relevant legislative requirements

access and interpret available information accurately and comprehensively

comply with statutory disclosure requirements

document research findings concisely and clearly for distribution purposes.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure:

competency is demonstrated in the context of the financial services work environment and conditions specified in the range statement either in a relevant workplace or a closely simulated work environment

access to and the use of a range of common office equipment, technology, software and consumables

access to financial services product information.

Method of assessment

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples, in combination, are appropriate for this unit:

evaluating an integrated activity which combines the elements of competency for the unit or a cluster of related units of competency

verbal or written questioning on underpinning knowledge and skills

setting and reviewing business simulations or scenarios

evaluating samples of work

accessing and validating third party reports.

Guidance information for assessment

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, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Relevant sources of information may include:

industry and economic data

interviews

organisation reports

organisation visits

specific investments

types of products.

Research information and documentation may include:

advice

agreements

bills

brochures

CDs

contracts or policy statements

electronic documents (including internet)

in-house publications

legal, government, professional and other documents

meeting notes

memos

official, general and other correspondence

presentation notes

prospectuses

quotations

reasons for adopting and incorporating certain information in preference to other information

receipts

records of telephone conversations

reference to all evidence and information considered

reports:

short

long

research

statistical

ad hoc

transaction

other.

Organisation policy and guidelines may include:

advertising and marketing

clerical

codes of practice

complaints and dispute resolution procedures

IT and administrative systems

policies and procedures in relation to client service

product or service development.

Relevant legislation and codes of practice may include:

Consumer Affairs Act

Consumer Credit Code

contract law

Corporations Act

industry codes of practice

National Guarantee Fund rules

Privacy Act

relevant financial association business rules and codes of conduct

secrecy laws

Taxation Act

Trade Practices Act

trust law.

Authorisation may include:

advisers

auditors

organisation accountants

organisation directors or managers.

Relevant parties may include:

accountants

advisers

agents

auditors

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)

Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)

Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

banks

clients

consultants

members

organisation directors or managers

other organisations

shareholders

Stamp Duties Office

stockbrokers

trustees.

Unit sector

Industry capability

This unit contains employability skills.