Talent Development Body of Knowledge (TDBoK™)

The definitive resource for the talent development profession.

The Talent Development Body of Knowledge (TDBoK™) is the first-ever, comprehensive collection of concepts, definitions, methodologies, and examples that lays the foundation and guiding principles for those who develop talent in the workplace.

The TDBoK offers a deep dive into the 23 key capability areas outlined within the Talent Development Capability ModelTM, the framework that tells talent development (TD) practitioners what they need to know and do to develop themselves, others, and their organizations. Developed by ATD, in collaboration with more than 60 subject matter experts and incorporating curated perspectives from thousands of publications, this reference guide sets the gold standard for the talent development profession.

For those preparing to obtain an ATD CI certification—the Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD)® or the Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD)®—the TDBoK also serves as a resource for exam preparation.

Conveniently available in both digital and print formats, the TDBoK goes beyond training and instructional design to address the full spectrum of information TD professionals need for success—today and in the future. We recommend every TD professional have a copy on hand to learn about their field and grow their careers.

Digital TDBoK

 
12-month digital access

MEMBER

$195

NONMEMBER

$295

Print TDBoK

 

MEMBER

$295

NONMEMBER

$395

Your TDBoK will:

  • Serve as a definitive, ongoing, centralized source and reference guide for TD best practices and the knowledge and skills required for success in the profession.
  • Enable easy access to theories, models, insights, and answers through a structured, searchable e-publication.
  • Provide an overview of the broad array of TD disciplines (23 unique capabilities) so you can get exposure to new proficiency areas, identify what you need to learn, and tailor your future development plan.
  • Give you a set of terminology and definitions for the TD profession that create a common language.
  • Ensure alignment of the professional resources that you use to expand and develop your career—from credentials to courses and conferences to publications and online content.
Which version of the TDBoK is right for me?
Benefits of the Digital TDBoK
Accessible anywhere, anytime, the digital TDBoK includes:
  • Hundreds of pages of content, including 186 knowledge and skills statements that define best practices, plus 650 glossary terms giving you a complete TD dictionary
  • Detailed references and recommended readings that will enable you to explore beyond the platform
  • A comprehensive and consolidated resource that is easy to navigate and fully searchable
  • Ability to sync highlighted content, notes, and annotations across your devices
  • A read-aloud feature to listen to content
  • Options to create your own personal study guide and flashcards
  • 12-month digital access based upon date of purchase

Once purchased, visit My Orders and Downloads to access your digital copy. Access is for a single user only.
Print Format Features
Mirroring the Talent Development Capability Model, the print version of the TDBoK features three sections, one for each domain in the model. The 23 capability areas in the model are covered in-depth, giving you detailed insight into the concepts, models, and terminology you need to know to achieve excellence in your TD practice.

The high-quality, color print version includes 12-month access to the digital version.
Print Add-On
Already own the digital TDBoK? You can add the print version to your digital copy. This print version is only available as an add-on to the digital version.
License the TDBoK for Your Team
As our profession continues to transform to match business and organizational strategic priorities, it is important to have a codified set of standards that define TD. Receive a special rate when you license the TDBoK for your organization. Connect with an ATD Enterprise Solutions Account Executive to find out more.