This booklet explains the operation of New Zealand's National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and its relationship to workplace assessment. Discussed first is the NQF's mission of encouraging people to continue their education and training after secondary school and permitting flexibility in where and how people train. The role of the NQF in creating a "seamless" education system integrating secondary education, industry training, and tertiary education is outlined. Examined next are how and who develops the unit standards that function as the NQF's building blocks. The role of the assessor in evaluating learning on the job, the role of the Qualifications Authority in accrediting standards setters who in turn select assessors and monitor the fairness of the assessment process, and requirements for becoming an assessor are explained. Presented next is an emerging model for workplace assessment in small businesses in which the qualifications authority, industry training organizations, and workplace assessors each play specified roles. Three case studies illustrate the operation of the NQF in the dairy manufacturing and building industries and in recognition of prior learning. Concluding the booklet are sources of additional information on the NQF. (MN)