Estimation techniques of physical capacities have been used by the United States Employment Service for a period of 40 years. In one technique, benchmarks are used to define 27 different capacities and 27 working conditions, which are ultimately consolidated into six groups of the former and seven groups of the latter. The benchmarks are actual statements of work behaviors involving the characteristics. Several behaviors from a variety of jobs are used to indicate the presence of an ordinary amount as well as a critical amount of the characteristic. Although this technique was originally undertaken to facilitate the selective placement of the handicapped, the technique could be used across the board and would be equally useful for all placements. (Author)