ARMA International published Core Competencies for Records and Information Management in October 2007 and released a complementary, web-based self-assessment tool in March 2008. The ARMA core competencies model identifies the most critical, predominantly cross-functional knowledge, skills, and practices of the records and information management professional. The model was developed by records management professionals, validated by nearly 2,000 people, and compared to other competency models. The core competencies are not intended to be prescriptive in nature, but used as a guideline to assist individuals and organization in assessing the potential tasks, knowledge, and skills associated with managing records and information. This presentation will give a high-level overview of the development and content of the records and information management core competencies. Special attention will be given to the practical uses of the competencies for professionals in their career planning, for businesses in developing appropriate job descriptions, and for raising the awareness within organizations of the value provided by those who manage and maintain information.