Management by competences in the public sector: a systematic review of the literature

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze publications on Competency Management in the public sector. Through a qualitative methodology, a literature review of 13 studies in Scopus was carried out. As a result, researchers identified a greater focus on management positions, in order to identify existing skills and learning gaps. Brazil stood out with the highest number of studies, in addition to having the first indexed in the base. There was also a trend of research in the health area, demonstrating that it is an area with a greater tendency to the maturation of KM practices. The qualitative approach was most used by the authors as a way to more deeply assess which competencies are necessary for professional performance. The perceived gaps demonstrate the need for future studies that consider different contexts and organizations. As barriers in the implementation of KM, the authors pointed out the excessive bureaucracy, organizational culture and lack of necessary physical and technological infrastructure. It is concluded that KM has gained space in the public sector, however it is still a topic that needs further expansion.