Specific Vocational Preparation (SVP)

The amount of time required for a worker to learn the techniques, acquire the information, and develop the facility needed for average performance in a specific job.

SVP is measured across nine levels:

1. Short demonstration (up to 4 hours)
2. Beyond demonstration up through 1 month
3. Over 1 month up to 3 months
4. Over 3 months up to 6 months
5. Over 6 months up to 1 year
6. Over 1 year up to 2 years
7. Over 2 years up to 4 years
8. Over 4 years up to 10 years
9. Over 10 years

SVP is derived from multiple inputs: formal education, on-the-job training, and prior relevant work experience. It captures preparation time rather than credentialing, what it actually takes to perform, not what’s listed on a job posting.

Related: 06-atom—tacit-knowledge, 06-atom—job-vs-occupation-distinction