What are the differences between KSAs and KSAOs ?

Knowledge —- An organized body of information, usually of a factual or procedural nature, which if applied, makes adequate performance on the job possible.

Examples include knowledge of:

• Operational systems and procedures
• Budget and accounting principals
• Engineering practices
• Administrative practices

Skill — The manipulation of data, things, or people through manual, mental or verbal means. Skills are measurable through testing, can be observed, and are quantifiable. Often refers to expertise that comes from training, practice, etc.

Examples include skill in:

• Keyboard data entry
• Motor vehicle operation
• Computer software proficiency
• Electronic or computer repair
• Second language proficiency 

Ability — The capacity to perform a physical or mental activity at the present time. Typically, abilities are apparent through functions completed on the job. Abilities and skills are often interchangeable in KSAOs. The main difference is that ability is the capacity to perform, where a skill is the actual manipulation of data, things or people. You may have the ability, but unless observed through actions, that ability may not transfer to a skill set.

Examples include the ability to:

• Organize and plan work (observed at work)
• Analyze situations, programs and problems
• Communicate orally and in writing
• Coach and mentor others

Other Characteristics — Mental or physical attributes or characteristics that don’t fall under the other areas.

Examples are:

• Proactive — takes initiative to get things done without prompting
• Copes well in stressful environments — handles complex tasks
• Reliability — assigned work is completed ahead of schedule and the quality of work is exceptional
• Multiple work assignments — capable of successfully handling various and sundry tasks

This factor is required for jobs that to a greater degree encounter these characteristics, such as jobs with the Federal Aviation Administration in air traffic control, work at nuclear power plants, and careers in law enforcement.