Use of transferable skill analysis software in forensic vocational rehabilitation: Does this common technique withstand a challenge under Daubert?

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Sleister, Stephanie L.

Affiliations: Genex Services, Bartonville, IL 61607, USA

Note: [] Address for correspondence: Stephanie L. Sleister, Ph.D., ABVE DIPLOMATE, 2712. S. Skyway Drive, Bartonville, IL 61607, USA. Tel.: +1 217 787 7795; Fax: +1 309 633 9470; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: No research has been conducted on the validity of the occupations identified from transferable skill analysis (TSA) software. Yet, vocational specialists routinely use TSA programs to identify jobs and associated earnings for individuals with disabilities, and insurance carriers rely on this information to award or deny claims for disability. However, reviews of various court decisions indicate a propensity to reject vocational expert testimony if the expert based his or her opinion solely on the use of transferable skill analysis software. This article reviews (a) research on transferable skill analysis software; and (b) court decisions regarding the acceptance of vocational testimony under {\it Daubert}.

Keywords: vocational, testimony, transferable skills analysis

Journal: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 17, no. 2, pp. 137-143, 2002