Glossary (1/4) Term Generic definition Applied to job matching Agent An agent is an autonomous AI unit that communicates with other agents, makes decisions, and plans and performs tasks. It is customizable for integration with language models, humans, tools or their combinations.An agent can automate tasks in job matching such as analysing job descriptions and candidate profiles and generating personalized resources. It can streamline onboarding as an intermediary. Application programming interface (API)An API is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate and share data with one another, enabling seamless integration and functionality across platforms.An API can facilitate the integration of public employment services systems with external platforms, such as job boards, educational platforms or employer databases, allowing for real-time data exchange on job vacancies, skills and qualifications. Artificial intelligence (AI) AI is a broad field of computer science focused on creating systems that can perform tasks that would typically require human intelligence. This includes a wide range of capabilities such as learning, problem-solving, perception, language understanding, etc.9 AI is an overall concept encompassing a wide variety of AI subsets that analyse large sets of candidate and job data to automate the process of matching the right talent to the right opportunities. This makes recruitment faster and more precise than manual filtering. Big data This is an all-encompassing term for large, complex digital data sets that require equally complex technological means to be stored, analysed, managed and processed with substantial computing power.10 Big data is an overarching concept that fuels predictive algorithms by analysing vast candidate pools and job data, enabling faster and more accurate matches compared to smaller datasets. Blockchain A blockchain is a distributed ledger which maintains all transactions and assets and is updated by a number of counterparties.11 Blockchain cannot be easily tampered with, mostly because it is decentralized and uses a secure and linked data structure.Blockchain can be used to maintain transparent and immutable records of candidates’ credentials, work histories and skills, enhancing trust and eliminating the risk of data manipulation. Chatbot A chatbot is a computer program designed to simulate conversation with a human user (usually over the internet) – especially one used to provide information or assistance to the user as part of an automated service.12Chatbots can guide candidates through job applications, answer queries or even assess basic skills. Unlike static web forms, they create a more interactive experience while reducing recruiter workload. Matching Talent to the Jobs of Tomorrow: A Guidebook for Public Employment Services 31

Matching Talent to the Jobs of Tomorrow A Guidebook for Public Employment Services 2025