Context-Challenge-Actions-Results (CCAR)
The CCAR Format
OPM has a recommended format for writing the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ), called the CCAR (Challenge, Context, Action, and Result) Model. ECQs should be in the CCAR format to make it easier to write ECQs.
The key is to give readers executive resources staff, rating and selecting officials, and Qualifications Review Board (QRB) members specific information about your achievements. Be sure to include professional and volunteer experience, education, training, and awards that demonstrate your skills in a particular Executive Core Qualification (ECQ).
Begin your ECQ statement using the CCAR format with a brief summary of your executive experience. Then use the following approach to describe your accomplishments.
Context Challenge Action Results (CCAR)
| Challenge: | What was the specific problem that you faced that needed resolution? It should be at large organizational level, with agency-wide, government-wide, or national effects or impacts. It should require more than individual actions -- Leadership means, at minimum, that you have the ability to get other people to follow when you set direction. |
| Context: | Define the other factors (people, institutions, procedures) that made the challenge of executive caliber. It should include redefinition of goals, changes in conditions, and some requirements to gain other people/organizations to comply with your changed direction. Be specific in terms of factors that made the challenge substantial resources, people, laws, regulations, deadlines, and complexity. |
| Action: | What did you do that made a difference? Express your achievement in a team environment, but focus your role within the team. |
| Result: | What difference did it make? Metrics and quantifiable results are one of the most important components of the ECQs. |