An Occupation in Harmony: The Roles of Markets and Government in Career Information and Guidance

Interest in career information and guidance (CIG) has grown as part of many countries efforts to strengthen education to improve their workforce. While CIG may facilitate markets in education and training, the provision of CIG itself is subject to market failures. This paper examines the demand for CIG, the structure of supply, and the nature of markets. Based on the OECD Career Guidance Policy Review, it then examines ways that countries have tried to correct such market failures in CIG – clarifying the responsibilities of governments to create the foundations necessary for markets.