Elements and Performance Criteria

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.

file sharing
printer sharing
messaging
web services
network and remote access
database and data warehousing
directory services
management
line of business applications
terminal services

Linux 7.0 or above
Windows 2000 or above
Apple OS X or above

Apache HTTP server
IBM VisualAge and WebSphere

Microsoft-Internet-Information-Server
NetDynamics
Lotus Domino
Netscape Enterprise server, Netscape-FastTrack, Netscape-Commerce
Sun Microsystems iPlanet web server
iPlanet-Enterprise
Sun Microsystems Java web server
Email servers
FTP servers

Pearl
VBscript
VB.Net Javascript
PHP, Python

secure socket layer (SSL)
PKI
payment gateways

disk storage
CGI access
scripts
POP accounts
dedicated servers
e-business hosting
co-location of servers

Oracle
PostegreSQL
Microsoft SQL Server
My SQL
SQL

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 following is essential:

Assessment must confirm the ability to evaluate and select a web hosting service that meets the current and future needs of the business.

To demonstrate competency in this unit the learner will require access to:

Hosting plans, prices and service agreements
Technology underpinning the ISP and services offered
Business plan outlining future directions for the business

Context of and specific resources for assessment
The effectiveness of an organisation's online presence is significantly determined by the quality, cost and features of the web hosting service provider or ISP. Web hosts often tailor their services to serve the needs of a particular type of client and the selection of an appropriate bundle of features and provider is an important decision for the organisation.
An individual demonstrating this competency would be able to take responsibility for comparing and evaluating ISP services.
The breadth, depth and complexity covering planning and initiation of alternative approaches to skills or knowledge applications across a broad range of technical and/or management requirements, evaluation and coordination would be characteristic.
The demonstration of competency may also require self-directed application of knowledge and skills, with substantial depth in some areas where judgement is required in planning and selecting appropriate equipment, services and techniques for self and others.

Assessment must ensure:

Applications involve participation in development of strategic initiatives as well as personal responsibility and autonomy in performing complex technical operations or organising others. It may include participation in teams including teams concerned with planning and evaluation functions. Group or team coordination may also be involved.

Method of assessment
The purpose of this unit is to define the standard of performance to be achieved in the workplace. In undertaking training and assessment activities related to this unit, consideration should be given to the implementation of appropriate diversity and accessibility practices in order to accommodate people who may have special needs. Additional guidance on these and related matters is provided in ICA05 Section 1.
Competency in this unit should be assessed using summative assessment to ensure consistency of performance in a range of contexts. This unit can be assessed either in the workplace or in a simulated environment. However, simulated activities must closely reflect the workplace to enable full demonstration of competency.
Assessment will usually include observation of real or simulated work processes and procedures and/or performance in a project context as well as questioning on underpinning knowledge and skills. The questioning of team members, supervisors, subordinates, peers and clients where appropriate may provide valuable input to the assessment process. The interdependence of units for assessment purposes may vary with the particular project or scenario.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, for example:

ICAA5056B Prepare disaster recovery and contingency plans

An individual demonstrating this competency would be able to:

Demonstrate understanding of a broad knowledge base incorporating theoretical concepts, with substantial depth in some areas
Analyse and plan approaches to technical problems or management requirements
Transfer and apply theoretical concepts and/or technical or creative skills to a range of situations
Evaluate information, using it to forecast for planning or research purposes
Take responsibility for own outputs in relation to broad quantity and quality parameters
Take some responsibility for the achievement of group outcomes
Maintain knowledge of industry products and services