The Validity and Value of National Vocational Qualifications: the case of purchasing

This paper outlines the process through which competence‐based National Vocational Qualifications in Purchasing have been developed against the context of criticisms of the concept itself and the methodology adopted. It is argued that the validity of such qualifications lies in practitioner involvement in their development and assessment. They also have value through their incorporation in organisational personnel selection and development processes. Ultimately, however, their validity and value remain to be established through empirical research.