Which tool is used to visually map potential successors for key roles including readiness and skills gaps?

• A. 9-Box Grid.
• B. Performance review.
• C. Replacement Chart.
• D. Headcount forecast.

Answer: (C)

This topic focuses on how to plan for continuity by clearly showing who could step into key roles and what each potential successor still needs to develop. A replacement chart is built for this purpose: it ties each critical position to a list of suitable internal successors and, for each candidate, captures their current readiness level and any skills or experience gaps that must be addressed. It also often includes recommended development actions and timelines, so leaders can see at a glance who can fill a role now or in the near future and what steps are needed to close the gaps.

While the 9-Box Grid is a useful broader talent-review tool that maps individuals by performance and potential, it isn’t as tightly focused on specific roles and the concrete readiness-and-gap view needed for succession planning. A performance review centers on past performance rather than mapping future replacements, and a headcount forecast projects overall staffing needs without connecting roles to ready-to-step-in candidates.