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OverviewNature of WorkKnowledge AreasSkills Utilized
Job ActivitiesAbilitiesJob ConditionsWork SatisfactionEducation/Training

Knowledge Areas

Learn about the most important knowledge areas for Purchasing Managers. Also, find out how proficient you have to be in each knowledge area.

Importance*More Info
1.English Language77
2.Administration and Management76
3.Production and Processing73
4.Mathematics67
5.Personnel and Human Resources65
6.Economics and Accounting60
7.Computers and Electronics56
8.Customer and Personal Service52
9.Education and Training50
10.Design46
* Importance out of 100

Score Key
  Importance for success in this profession
  Level of proficiency needed

Knowledge Area Scores

English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
77
63
Write a thank you noteEdit a feature article in a local newspaperTeach a college English class
Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
76
69
Sign a pay voucherMonitor progress of a project to ensure timely completionManage a $10 million company
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
73
65
Put a computer back into its packing materialsSupervise an appliance assembly lineManage an international shipping company distribution center
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
67
66
Add two numbersAnalyze data to determine areas with the highest salesDerive a complex mathematical equation
Personnel and Human Resources
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
65
67
Fill out a medical claim formInterview applicants for a secretarial positionDesign a new personnel selection and promotion system for the Army
Economics and Accounting
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
60
61
Answer billing questions from credit card customersDevelop financial investment programs for individual clientsKeep a major corporation's financial records
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
56
61
Operate a VCR to watch a pre-recorded training tapeUse a word processorCreate a program to scan computer disks for viruses
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
52
61
Process customer dry-cleaning drop offWork as a day care aide supervising 10 childrenRespond to a citizen's request for assistance after a major disaster
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
50
63
Show someone how to bowlLead a quality improvement seminarDesign a training program for new employees
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
46
43
Draw a straight line 4 3/16 inches longDraw plans for remodeling a kitchenDevelop detailed plans for a high-rise office building