The articles in this issue of BWP examine the importance and function of guidance services in the context of lifelong learning. This will be done first of all with an eye to certain target groups / certain fields and secondly in light of the question "What potential can guidance services tap in order to create transparency in a very complex (continuing) training market?" In his commentary in this issue of BWP, Professor Dr Reinhold Weiß, head of research at BIBB, draws attention to the heterogeneity of this field and argues for better linking of service offerings, improving and stabilizing structures and emphasizes the importance of systematic but differentiated training for skilled workers. Among the other articles in this issue are an appraisal of the current status of the German Qualifications Framework and a report on the requirements and challenges involved in developing adapted occupations in the United Arab Emirates.