Numeracy measures arithmetic, mathematical or quantitative skills required to perform the job competently. Role occupants who are Specialists or Analysts may report to more senior management positions, but may be assessed higher (5 or above) on this factor than the role to which they report.
Level
Description
1
LOW Numeracy is not a requirement.
2
BASIC Requires basic numeracy such as counting, recording numbers, simple addition and subtraction (possibly with use of an adding machine or calculator) and dealing with money, weight, volume and distance; handling small amounts of money (eg ticket office sales, cashier), or reading simple instruments (eg meter).
3
ARITHMETIC Requires numeracy to a level where more detailed calculations can be made (eg calculation of percentages, discounts, markups, proportions, area, circumference, volume), where basic concepts of algebra and geometry can be applied, or where substantial amounts of cash are handled (eg teller), or where simple charts, graphs, tables, or statistics such as averages can be constructed or interpreted.
4
QUANTITATIVE Numeracy to a level where quantitative information can be interpreted from more complex charts, graphs and statistical figures; and where numerical relationships between several factors can be interpreted. Most executive positions are at this level.
5
INFERENCE Numeracy to a level where detailed quantitative inferences and / or calculations need to be made regularly as part of the role: ie understand and develop/apply modelling concepts, ability to apply concepts such as probability, game theory, analysis of variance, correlation, sampling theory, factor analysis, tests of reliability and validity, and statistical inference. Includes roles for which techniques such as quadratic equations, permutations and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry need to be applied, eg, engineering, navigational, surveying, and financial models including advanced economics, shares or trades.
6
COMPLEX Numeracy to a level where complex mathematical theories and research are involved, and related processes and calculations need to be performed: usually requiring use of computer-based algorithms or sophisticated instruments, and complex measuring methods; ability to comprehend and apply principles such as advanced calculus, differential equations, and statistical theory. Such jobs include Actuary, Statistician, Consulting Engineer, Astronomer, Physicist.
7
ADVANCED RESEARCH Numeracy at an advanced level, usually applicable only in research situations where complex mathematical methods need to be developed, or theories developed or tested, or where both deep interpretation of results and critique of the underlying assumptions and methodology used are required.
