This paper discusses the potential of National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) and Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) to improve the status of women in Great Britain. The first section introduces NVQs and provides historical background. The second section addresses the question: What is an SVQ or NVQ, and what is involved in getting one? Mandatory and optional NVQ units for information and library staff are listed. The third section considers the benefits to women, including the ability to meet qualifications on the job, flexibility, exemptions for existing skills, costs, and career progression and development. The third section covers disadvantages, including jargon and complex language in the standards, time consuming requirements, and the lack of underlying theory. (Contains 27 references.) (MES)