Certification Examination

Teacher certification examinations in America

2011-04-09T23:49:00.002-07:00

Teacher certification examinations in individual states

Examples of states that require teaching candidates to pass their state-specific tests, in lieu of the Praxis:

Alabama (APTTP)
Arizona (AEPA)
California (CBEST and California Subject Examinations for Teachers , also known as CSET)
Colorado (PLACE)
Florida (FTCE)
Georgia (GACE)
Illinois (ICTS)
Massachusetts (MTEL)
Michigan (MTTC)
Mississippi
New Mexico (NMATC)
New York (NYSTCE)
Texas (TExES)
Virginia (VCLA)
Washington (WEST-B/E)

Individual states that use the Praxis II

2011-04-09T23:49:00.001-07:00

Individual states that use the Praxis II

Alabama
Arkansas
Delaware
Idaho
Indiana
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
New Jersey
New Hampshire
North Carolina
Ohio
Oregon (also is using CBEST test for applicants from Oregon and California)
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Virginia
West Virginia
North Dakota
Wisconsin

Praxis test - American teacher certification exams

2011-04-09T23:47:00.000-07:00

A Praxis test is one of a series of American teacher certification exams written and administered by the Educational Testing Service. Various Praxis tests are usually required before, during, and after teacher training courses in the U.S. To be certified to teach in most U.S. states, one must earn qualifying scores on all parts of the Praxis I and certain Praxis II Content Area Assessments. The Praxis I, or Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST), consists of three exams: reading, writing, and mathematics. In most colleges and universities, a passing score must be earned for admission to teacher education. In most states, a passing score must be earned before the teacher education graduate can apply for his or her teaching license or certificate. The Praxis II assessments cover many different subject areas. Each education major requires a different combination of Praxis II exams. In some states, students must pass these exams before being accepted into the student teaching component of the program. Many states use the Praxis II tests as a way to determine highly qualified status under the No Child Left Behind Act. The Praxis III occurs during the entry year of teaching. A trained assessor visits the entry year teacher in their classroom and observes a lesson. The Praxis III also consists of a pre-observation interview and a post-observation interview to be completed the day of the observation. It replaced the National Teacher Examination (NTE), also administered by ETS.

MySQL certification

2011-04-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

MySQL certification lays the foundation for becoming a trusted and valuable resource for your company and customers. MySQL certifications are available for Developers, DBAs and for those specializing in MySQL Cluster technologies.

Consultants, developers and DBAs use MySQL certification to show prospective employers and customers that they are up to date on the latest features, gain confidence that they are on top of MySQL tools and tricks, and promote themselves with certification logos on business cards and personal weblogs.

Microsoft Certified Professional

2011-04-01T12:31:00.000-07:00

Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) is a program of Professional certifications awarded by Microsoft. Individual certifications are awarded upon passing of one or more exams. The MCP program itself is designed for both IT Professionals and developers. Beneath the MCP program is a variety of more targeted and focused certifications (e.g. Microsoft Certified IT Professional, etc).

Like Apple, Cisco, Oracle, Red Hat, Sun and Ubuntu programs, the certifications mainly focus on their respective product, as opposed to employment aptitude tests designed for programmer trainee jobs. These branches of technical series with the MC (Microsoft Certified) prefix include Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP), Microsoft Certified Master (MCM), Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA), Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD), Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS).

Each exam costs approximately $150 USD. Exams usually take between 2 and 3 hours to complete and consist of between 40 and 90 multiple choice, drag and drop, solution building questions and simulated content within exams where students are required to perform certain common administrative tasks appropriate for the topic at hand.

Juniper Networks Technical Certification Program

2011-04-01T12:28:00.000-07:00

The Juniper Networks Technical Certification Program (JNTCP) was introduced by Juniper Networks, Inc. and intended for attaining proficiency in Juniper line of products. The certifications are divided into several levels based on skill level requirement.

Associate level certifications

The certifications offered at this level include the following:

JNCIA-M: Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate on M-Series router network.

JNCIA-E: Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate on E-Series router network.

JNCIA-ER: Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate on enterprise routing (former JNCIA-J, J-Series routers associate). Retires from 3 December 2011 by JNCIA-Junos.

JNCIA-EX: Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate on EX-Series Switch Network.

Specialist level certifications

The certification offered at this level include the following:

JNCIS-M, JNCIS-E, JNCIA-FWV, JNCIS-ES, JNCIS-ER, JNCIS-SEC.

JNCIS is short for Juniper Networks Certified Internet Specialist.

M stands for M-Series router certification path, E stands for E-series router certification path, and FWV stands for FireWall/VPN certification path, ES for Enhanced Services, ER for Enterprise Routing certification path, SEC for Security.

Professional level certifications

The certification offered at this level include the following:

JNCIP-M, JNCIP-E

JNCIP is short for Juniper Networks Certified Internet Professional. M stands for M-Series router certification path, and E stands for the E-Series router certification path.

Expert level certifications

The certification offered at this level include the following:

JNCIE-M, JNCIE-ER

JNCIE is short for Juniper Networks Certified Internet Expert. M stands for M-Series router certification path and, ER stands for Enterprise Routing certification path.
[edit] Lab exams

All Professional and Expert exams are lab-exams. These can be attempted in Juniper offices worldwide and occasionally on other locations as well.

Avaya Professional Credential Program

2011-04-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

Avaya Professional Credential Program are IT Professional certifications for Avaya products. There are five Proficiency levels of certification: Avaya Professional Sales Specialist (APSS) , Avaya Professional Design Specialist (APDS), Avaya Professional Implementation Specialist (ACIS), Avaya Certified Solutions Specialist (ACSS), Avaya Certified Solutions Architect (ACSA). Avaya Certification Credentials require passing one or more exams or learning activities in the required areas. Exams are globally available at Virtual University Enterprises (VUE) Testing Centers around the world.

APSS Avaya Professional Sales Specialist

* Contact Center Systems (CC) - APSS-CC
* Data Systems - APSS-Data
* Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Communications (SMEC) - APSS-SMEC
* Unified Communications (UC) - APSS-UC

APDS Avaya Professional Design Specialist
validates an ability to design and create Avaya solutions.

* Contact Center (CC) - APDS-CC
* Data Systems - APDS-Data
* Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Communications (SMEC) - APDS-SMEC
* Unified Communications (UC) - APDS-UC

ACIS Avaya Certified Implementation Specialist
ACIS certifies a candidate has achieved a level of proficiency required to install, configure and adress implementation issues for a specified Avaya product family.

* Contact Center Systems
o ACIS- Avaya Aura® Contact Center
o ACIS- Avaya Aura® Contact Center CCT and Multimedia Implementation
o ACIS- Avaya Aura® Contact Recording and Avaya Aura® Quality Monitoring
o ACIS- Avaya Contact Center on Avaya Aura® Communication Manager and Avaya Call Management System
o ACIS- Avaya Interaction Center
o ACIS- Avaya Proactive Contact
o ACIS- Avaya Voice Portal
* Data Systems [2]
o ACIS- Avaya Ethernet Routing Switch
o ACIS- Avaya Virtual Services Platform 9000
o ACIS- Avaya Wireless LAN
* Small and Medium Communication Systems (SME)
* Unified Communications Systems (UC)
o ACIS- Avaya Agile Communication Environment
o ACIS- Avaya Aura® Communication Manager (R5.2.1)
o ACIS- Avaya Aura® Communication Manager and CM (R6.0) Messaging
o ACIS- Avaya Aura® Conferencing -Standard Edition
o ACIS- Avaya Aura® Messaging and Avaya Message Networking
o ACIS- Avaya Aura® Session Manager and System Manager
o ACIS- Avaya Communication Server 1000
o ACIS- Avaya Modular Messaging, Message Networking, and one-X® Speech

ACSS Avaya Certified Solutions Specialist
certifies a candidate has the proficiency to design, implement and troubleshoot real-time communications architectures for enterprises.

ACSA Avaya Certified Solutions Architect
ability to design, implement, maintain, and troubleshoot large, complex real-time communication architecturec across diverse multi-vendor environments.

Apple Associate Certifications

2011-04-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

Certified Associate certifications are designed for professionals, educators and students to validate their skills in Apple's digital lifestyle and authoring applications, iLife and iWork.

Apple Certified Associate in iWork Required exam

* iLife Level One (Prometric exam: #9L0-808)

Apple Certified Associate in iLife Required exam

* iWork Level One (Prometric exam: #9L0-806)

Apple IT Professional Certifications

2011-04-01T12:16:00.000-07:00

These certifications are designed for IT professionals who support Mac OS X or who perform Mac OS X desktop support and troubleshooting, such as help desk staff, system administrators, service technicians, and service desk personnel.

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)
ACSP verifies an understanding of Mac OS X core functionality and an ability to configure key services, perform basic troubleshooting, and assist end users with essential Mac OS X capabilities. This certification addresses the technical skills needed by a Mac OS X specialist who works as a support professional or otherwise assists Mac OS X users with technical issues.

Required exams

* Mac OS X Support Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-403)

Apple Certified Technical Coordinator (ACTC)

This certification is designed for entry-level system administrators who provide help desk support to Mac OS X users, as well as maintain the Mac OS X Server platform.

Required exams

* Mac OS X Support Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-403)
* Mac OS X Server Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-510)

Apple Certified System Administrator (ACSA)

This certification is catered for system administrators managing large multiplatform IT networks using Mac OS X Server and other Apple technologies. The ACSA program has been changed to offer individuals more flexibility and is now focused on individual job functions. Each passed exam earns a specialization certificate and a specific number of credits toward ACSA certification, which requires a total of 7 valid (unexpired) credits.

Required exams

* Mac OS X Server Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-510)
* Mac OS X Deployment v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-623)
* Mac OS X Directory Services v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-624)
* Mac OS X Security & Mobility v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-625)

Apple Certified Specialist in Deployment (ACS - Deployment)

Verifies the ability to deploy and manage Mac OS X computers and software through the creation of installation packages and system images and the configuration of services including NetBoot and Software Update.

Required Exams

* Mac OS X Support Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-403)
* Mac OS X Server Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-510)
* Mac OS X Deployment v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-623)

Apple Certified Specialist in Directory Services (ACS - DS)

Verifies the ability to configure Mac OS X computers to access directory servers as well as configure the Open Directory service on Mac OS X Server to provide user accounts and authentication for Macintosh and Windows computers.

Required Exams

* Mac OS X Support Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-403)
* Mac OS X Server Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-510)
* Mac OS X Directory Services v10.6 (Prometric exam #9L0-624)

Apple Certified Specialist in security and Mobility (ACS - SAM)

Verifies the ability to configure Mac OS X Server to provide secure access to a private network, allowing select mobile devices controlled access to internal services.

Required Exams

* Mac OS X Support Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-403)
* Mac OS X Server Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-510)
* Mac OS X Security & Mobility v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-625)

Apple Certified Media Administrator (ACMA)

Verifies in-depth knowledge of Xsan architecture, including an ability to install and configure systems, architect and maintain networks, customize and troubleshoot services, and integrate Mac OS X, Final Cut Server, and other Apple technologies within an Xsan installation. ACMA certification is for system administrators and technicians working for resellers, post houses, studios or other large facilities. To earn ACMA status, students must pass three required exams and one elective exam as outlined below.

Required Exams

* Mac OS X Server Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-510)
* Xsan 2 Administration (Prometric exam: #9L0-622)
* Final Cut Server Level One (Prometric exam: #9L0-980)

Plus one of the following:

* Mac OS X Support Essentials v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-403)
* Mac OS X Directory Services v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-624)
* Mac OS X Deployment v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-623)
* Final Cut Pro Level One (Prometric exam: #9L0-827)

Xsan 2 Administrator

Veriﬁes comprehensive knowledge of Apple's SAN ﬁle system for Mac OS X. An Xsan Administrator is responsible for the life cycle of Xsan, including installation, deployment, infrastructure. To earn Xsan Administrator certification, students must pass one exam.

Required Exam

* Xsan 2 Administration (Prometric exam: #9L0-622)

Apple Software Certifications

2011-04-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

Pro Apps certifications

These certifications are designed for individuals who need a high skill-level in the use of Apple's pro applications or for professionals who provide support for Final Cut Pro software and peripheral devices.

Apple Certified Pro - Level One (pass any single exam from the list below)

* Aperture 3
* Color Correction in Final Cut Pro
* Compressor 3.5
* DVD Studio Pro 4
* Final Cut Express 4
* Final Cut Pro 7 (Level One)
* Final Cut Server
* Logic Pro 9 (Level One)
* Motion 4
* Sound Editing in Final Cut Studio

Apple Certified Pro - Level Two

* Final Cut Pro 7 (Level One) and Final Cut Pro 7 (Level Two)

or

* Logic Pro 9 (Level One) and Logic Pro 9 (Level Two)

Apple Certified Master Pro - Final Cut Studio

* Final Cut Pro 7 (Level One)

and any three of the following exams:

* Final Cut Pro 7 (Level Two)
* Color Correction in Final Cut Pro
* Compressor 3.5
* DVD Studio Pro 4
* Motion 4
* Sound Editing in Final Cut Studio

Apple Certified Master Pro - Logic Studio

* Logic Pro 9 (Level One)
* Logic Pro 9 (Level Two)

Xsan 2 Administrator

* Xsan 2 Administration exam (Prometric exam: #9L0-622)

Apple Certified Media Administrator

* Mac OS X Server Essentials v10.5 or v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-509 or 9L0-510)
* Xsan 2 Administration Exam (Prometric exam: #9L0-622)
* Final Cut Server (Prometric exam: #9L0-580)

and any one of the following exams:

* Final Cut Pro 7 (Level One) (Prometric exam: #9L0-827)
* Mac OS X Support Essentials v10.5 or v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-402 or 9L0-403)
* Mac OS X Deployment v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-623)
* Mac OS X Directory Services v10.6 (Prometric exam: #9L0-624)

Apple certification programs

2011-04-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

Apple certification programs are programs created by Apple Inc. to verify an in-depth knowledge of various areas of Apple's products. They are designed to create a high level of technical proficiency among Macintosh service technicians, help desk support, technical support, system administrators, and professional users. Apple certification exams are offered at Prometric testing centers and Apple Authorized Training Centers. Apple Hardware Certifications designed for individuals interested in becoming Apple service technicians, help desk, desktop support, or Macintosh consultants who need all-around experience in servicing Macintosh computers. It includes two separate certifications.

Apple Certified Macintosh Technician

This certification is for the repair and diagnostics of all Macintosh desktops, portables, and servers. This certification is required to perform warranted hardware repairs for an Apple Authorized Service Provider.

Required exams

* Macintosh Service Certification Exam (Prometric exam: #9L0-008)
* Mac OS X 10.6 Troubleshooting Exam (Prometric exam: #9L0-062) Apple Certified Desktop Technician

Previously, the hardware certification came in the combination of Apple Certified Desktop Technician (ACDT) and Apple Certified Portable Technician (ACPT), but has been combined into a single hardware certification. This certification also includes an extensive knowledge of Apple's operating system OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard including its installation, settings, troubleshooting, and applications.

Chartered Financial Analyst CFA

2011-03-28T09:23:00.000-07:00

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation is an international professional certification offered by the CFA Institute (formerly AIMR) to financial analysts who complete a series of three examinations. To become a CFA Charterholder candidates must pass each of three six-hour exams, possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (or have equivalent education or work experience) and [1] have 48 months of qualified, professional work experience. CFA charterholders are also obligated to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards governing their professional conduct.

Certified Merger and Acquisition Advisor

2011-03-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

The Certified Merger & Acquisition Advisor ("CM&AA") designation is awarded by the Alliance of Merger & Acquisition Advisors and their academic partners Loyola University Chicago, or DePaul University to professionals that evidence mastery of the M&A body of knowledge and a commitment to staying abreast of new developments in the field of investment banking and mergers and acquisitions. It also recognizes professional achievement and competence, serves as a tool to both attract and serve new clients, provides identification with other professionals in the field and potentially stimulates career advancement. CM&AA professionals are accredited experts in one or more professional fields (i.e. CPA, accountant, lawyer, corporate finance, valuation expert, CFA, or MBA with Wall Street type investment banking experience) and understand the overall investment banking process for selling and buying middle-market companies (revenues typically ranging from $5 million to $500 million).

Certified Professional in Supply Management

2011-03-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

Challenge yourself and make the move to gain supply management's most prestigious designation. ISM launched the Certified Professional in Supply Management® (CPSM®) program in May 2008. The CPSM® is the credential that surpasses the demands of the international marketplace with multi-faceted skills in areas such as finance, supplier relationship management, organizational global strategy and risk compliance. For significantly less money than a semester at a business school, you can boost the effectiveness of your bachelor's degree and practical work experience by becoming a CPSM®. Register now to get the integrated skill set that will set you apart from the competition.

Certified International Commercial Contracts Manager CICCM

2011-03-28T09:16:00.000-07:00

Program Introduction
The purchasing and supply management profession is clearly transitioning from placing purchase orders to establishing and managing comprehensive contracts with strategic suppliers. This has created a need for purchasing and supply managers to develop and refine contract preparation and contract management skills. The Certified International Commercial Contracts Manager (CICCM) is designed for US and international business practitioners by The International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI), It is particularly appropriate for those individuals who wish to increase their commercial contracts management skills. A Certified International Commercial Contracts Manager (CICCM) certification demonstrates that you are knowledgeable about the practice of contracts management in the International commercial environment.

Program Goals and Objectives
Completion of the CICCM program will enable the certified individual to:
* Demonstrate a basic understanding of contract administration concepts;
* Apply a type of contract appropriate to the contracting situation;
* Assure that the purchasing organization fulfills its part of buyer-supplier agreement;
* Assure that the supplier's progress and performance complies with the contract;
* Resolve any problems that may arise during the life of the contract (this protects the purchasing organization's interests);
* Ascertain when contract changes are necessary, negotiate fair adjustments, and determine whether increased costs of performance should be borne by the supplier;
* Keep complete and accurate records and documentation pertaining to the contract.

Who Should Attend?
* Professionals in purchasing, contracts, materials, and supply chain management.
* Business and Contract Managers
* Import-export dealers
* International marketing and sales personnel
* Lawyers involved in support of the contracting process
* Anyone who wishes to be a CICCM or wants to be trained in international commercial contracts management

Examinations
This Certification Program is a core certification program of The International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI). This program offers the designation of CICCM (The Certified International Commercial Contracts Manager) to candidates who demonstrate their understanding of the fundamentals of the profession through the successful completion of rigorous professional certification examinations based upon the INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL CONTRACTS MANAGEMENT BODY OF KNOWLEDGE. (ICCMBOK). Completion of the certification program requires completion of a multiple choice examination. The examination is prepared by a Board of Examiners consisting of a range of Certified, Sustaining, and Educator Members within the International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI). The examination locations are determined by the individual candidates and their proctors. A proctor may be an individual who is currently an active Certified Member, or a manager, supervisor, teacher, professor, or anyone of such standing. Each proctor is determined on a case-by-case basis. ACI wishes to make it possible for every qualified candidate to complete the certification program in a convenient and timely manner.

Professional Designations
Successful candidates are granted the designation of CICCM. This certification may be used just as similar recognitions which are employed in accounting, insurance, medicine, law, and other professions. Either the full expression or the initials may be used after the individual’s name on business cards, stationery, etc.

Time Limitation
The Board of Examiners realizes that many applicants are employed on a full-time basis and, as such, are limited in the amount of time available to prepare for the examinations. Without some guiding time requirement, however, candidates tend to lose the concept of the examination program and the material covered. Therefore, the Board of Examiners has established a five year maximum time limit for acceptance of completed requirements. The time limitation may not be waived without the approval of the Board of Examiners.

PARTICIPANTS WILL LEARN:

After completion of this course, the student should be able to explain the following contracting processes:
Contract Planning (Contract Initiation)
Description of Requirements
Cost Benefit Analysis
Sourcing Options
Evaluation Criteria
Market Research
RFI Solicitation
Govt vs Private Sector

Bid Phase
Procurement (Bid) Process and Rules
Influence of Laws on the Bid Process
Cost Identification
Applying Evaluation Criteria
RFP Preparation and Content
RFP Management
Contract Pricing Principles

Development Phase
Commercial Contract Types
Contract Terms and Conditions Overview (CISG Drafting Guide for Managers and Counsels)
Partnerships, Alliances Distributorships, and Consortia
IT Procurement Contracts
Performance Based Contracts (Including Service Level Agreements)
Drafting Guidelines and Recommendations

Negotiate Phase
Negotiation Overview and Objectives
Negotiation Styles (Strategies)
Negotiation Techniques
Tactics, Tricks, and Lessons Learned

Manage Phase
Contract Administration (Four Lectures)

Advanced Topics
Electronic Contracting
Risk Management
International Contracting
Outsourcing

Requirements for certification
* AA degree OR more than three years of experience in business.
* Satisfactory completion of a 3 hour examination covering “the INTERNATIONAL COMMERCIAL CONTRACTS MANAGEMENT BODY OF KNOWLEDGE. (ICCMBOK)”.
* Completion of an application for certification and payment of all fees.

Certified Outsourcing Professional

2011-03-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

The Certified Outsourcing Professional (COP) designation distinguishes individuals as leaders in the field of outsourcing. It powerfully demonstrates that they possess the experience and knowledge required to design, implement, and manage outsourcing initiatives that have a high probability of achieving an organization’s intended outcomes. This professional designation, which focuses on the management process of outsourcing itself, is equally valuable to individuals working as customers, providers, or advisors. It promotes an environment where all of the parties to an outsourcing business relationship have a common and shared professional knowledge, approach, and commitment to mutual success.

Certified Specialist in Planned Giving

2011-03-28T09:12:00.000-07:00

As a professional in the challenging and complex field of planned giving, you must have access to the latest techniques and strategies to be successful. That's why the American Institute for Philanthropic Studies has developed this unprecedented program. The CSPGCM is a multi-module curriculum in planned giving developed by the American Institute for Philanthropic Studies under license to California State University, Long Beach Foundation. The curriculum encompasses the entire syllabus recommended by the National Committee on Planned Giving (NCPG). The CSPGCM program is the only program that offers the Certified Specialist in Planned Giving designation. By earning this designation, you will be able to:
* Document your proficiency as a planned giving professional
* Enhance your marketability
* Increase your opportunities for advancement in the field

Commodity trading advisor CTA

2011-03-28T09:11:00.000-07:00

A commodity trading advisor (CTA) is an asset manager who follows a set of systematic investment strategies in futures contracts and options on futures contracts. The advisors originally operated predominantly in commodities markets, but today they invest in any liquid futures market. They are responsible for the trading of managed futures accounts. There are approximately 800 CTAs registered with the National Futures Association (NFA), the self-regulatory organization for futures and options markets in the U.S. The two major types of advisors are technical traders and fundamental traders. Technical traders may use computer software programs to follow price trends and perform quantitative analysis. Trend following, or using technical analysis to follow swings in the markets, drives CTA performance and activity to a large degree. In a recent interview, Professor Galen Burghardt, adjunct professor at the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business, shows this by tracking a subset of trend following CTAs and compares them with a broader CTA index (from the period 2000-2009), finding a correlation of .97 between the two groups, showing how large the impact of trend following is in the CTA business.

Electronic Document Professional

2011-03-28T09:08:00.000-07:00

The EDP (Electronic Document Professional) is a professional designation awarded by Xplor International for participants in the electronic document industry who have satisfied a number of criteria. The EDP is not a measure of specific knowledge, but awardees normally have a broad knowledge of the electronic document industry along with specific knowledge in one or more areas. Thus, the EDP differs from certifications such as the CDIA+ from CompTIA in which the awardee has passed a formal exam. Rather, the EDP is more closely related to the older MIT and LIT designations from AIIM. Generally, the EDP does show that the awardee has been in the industry for at least 5 years, and has participated in at least 3 major projects showing competence in a number of 'bodies of knowledge'. The EDP program is regulated by the EDP Commission of Xplor International, which is a body of senior professionals in the electronic document industry who set the standards and judge the qualifications of the applicants.

Electronic Document Associate (EDA)
The EDA designation recognizes electronic document sales, development and support specialists who have shown significantly more knowledge of the industry than someone in another discipline. It requires candidates to be in the industry for 2+ years and have successfully completed 5 days of Xplor Continuing Education Unit (CEU) certified courses, or the equivalent.

Electronic Document Professional (EDP)
EDPs have clearly shown enough working knowledge of the process to make significant decisions regarding technology or process deployment. For example, management should trust them to lead projects, or support teams. To become certified as an EDP, a candidate must be in the industry for 5+ years, have successfully completed 10 days of Xplor CEU training (or the equivalent), and have shown their working knowledge and experience through 3 work examples.

Master Electronic Document Professional (M-EDP)
M-EDPs are the recognized experts on specific technologies, processes, or management skills. For example, an M-EDP may have co-developed a composition or print stream transform system. Another might be the expert on print costing, or statement design. By earning their M-EDP, they are clearly recognized as one of the ‘go to’ people in the industry. To earn the M-EDP, a candidate must have been in the industry for at least 10 years, have been an EDP for at least 5 years, and be able to prove their area of expertise through published material.

Global Professional in Human Resources Certification

2011-03-28T09:06:00.000-07:00

Overview
The field of human resources has changed tremendously in the past decade. Nowhere has this change been more profound than in global human resource management. As the business world globalizes and moves with increasing speed into the international markets, HR professionals may find that their roles must also keep up with this new global economy. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has responded to this dynamic global HR environment by developing the SHRM Global Learning System. The SHRM Global Learning System is a comprehensive test-preparation system for the GPHR Certification exam and serves as a reference tool for HR professionals with international and cross-border responsibilities. This review program has been designed to maximize your experience, education and skill set to prepare you to successfully pass the GPHR Certification examination. This examination is administered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) to advance the profession and provide the HR professionals with the necessary knowledge, skills and perspectives to be successful in this worldwide market. Human resource professionals who obtain their GPHR certification have an extraordinary professional advantage and are well prepared for international opportunities and career advancement.

Highlights
The GPHR Certification review program is a thorough review of the HR body of knowledge. The course emphasizes essential strategies for HR policies and initiatives that support your organization's global growth such as the establishment of international assignment policies and global compensation and benefits.

International Charter Business Ethics and Certification

2011-03-28T08:56:00.000-07:00

Small Business Certification
IC9200 Certification has been specifically designed for small businesses.z
It's aim is to evaluate a company, taking into account minimal aspects of its trading history, and instead focusing on the processes and measures in place to ensure future success, and its current customer satisfaction rating. IC9200 can also be adapted for offshore providers to guarantee the level of work produced. Larger companies frequently use IC9200 to evaluate vendors and supplies as a result of the following key benefits:
* It ensures a minimum quality for goods and services provided.
* It validates that a business, no matter how small, has a viable work flow process in place and is able to meet the demands of it's customers.
* It establishes a level of trust for first time business, or overseas companies.
* It ensures the company provides a reliable level of service.
IC9200 uses a streamlined version of the normal application process, meaning that small businesses do not need to set aside large amounts of time or resources to complete the certification. However, as with all International Charter certification programs it requires a commitment to address any shortcomings identified.

IC9700 Business Excellence Certification
IC9700 Business Excellence Certification indicates that a company has in place the standards, measures and processes required to ensure a high level of quality in the services or products it produces and supplies. (IC9700 Core Principles defines this in more detail). IC9700 companies are committed to excellence and continuous improvement. Companies which gain a Business Excellence certification are those which:
* Offer a consistent high level of service/ quality of goods.
* Have appropriate safeguards in place to ensure quality and monitor feedback.
* Maintain an ethical business model with integrity as a core value.
IC9700 Companies are trustworthy, reliable, stable and efficient. They are required to provide regular updates on their status and customer feedback. With this information these IC9700 certified companies are able to continue to refine their performance and ensure they offer the highest levels of product and service. As a result of its nature, IC9700 is used by a number of larger companies to screen vendors. A number of procurement departments have access to the IC9700 status of a company via VendorLink and Ariba. Companies are required to renew this certification on an annual basis, and to provide regular updates to the International Charter, including:
* Completed customer questionnaires.
* Notification of changes in employee numbers.
* Notification of legal action being taken against the company.
The IC9700 certifies compliance with standards EG9001, DHP3003 and EAS405 it also certifies compliance with a number of other closed standards.
In addition to this the International Charter allows customers to feedback concerns directly to the organization, and then works with the company to address these concerns in a prompt and appropriate manner.

Service Excellence Certification
Service Excellence certification indicates that a company has in place the standards, measures and processes required to ensure a high level of quality in the services or products it produces and supplies. (Service Excellence Principles defines this in more detail). Service Excellence certified companies are committed to excellence and continuous improvement in the services they provide their clients. Companies which gain a Service Excellence certification are those which:
* Offer a consistent high level of service.
* Have appropriate safeguards in place to ensure quality and take appropriate actions.
* Maintain a rigrous system of performance monitoring.
Companies are required to renew this certification on an annual basis, and to provide regular updates to the International Charter.

IC9900 Corporate Certification
The IC9900 Certification is the highest level of certification issued by the International Charter. IC9900 Corporate Certification denotes an organization which has reached a level of significant excellence and has in place measures, processes and safeguards which ensure the company operates to the highest level of excellence, ethical conduct and stakeholder interest. Companies that meet the IC9900 level of certification are leaders in their field and rank among the most stable and profitable companies in the world. The main areas assessed are:
* Social Responsibility
o Community Relations
+ The company should have a formal policy and operation towards community relations/
o Impact on local communities
+ The impact on the local community and areas in close proximity to a company's operation should be continually monitored.
o Participate in local community in a positive manner.
+Companies are encourage to participate in local communities, encouraging their employees to volunteer for local schemes as well as sponsoring local events.
o Management of Human Rights issues in the supply chain forms part of should form part of the company's commitment to Social Responsibility and as such is an integral part of the sourcing process. Minimum requirements expected from suppliers on their commitment to Human Rights should be included in all contracts.
* Environmental Responsibility
o Limit impact on the environment by
+ The Company must ensure that any impact on the local environment of its operations are full assessed and action take to limit such impact, where possible.
o Energy aware
+ The Company must make efforts towards reduction of energy consumption and carbon emmissions.
* Corporate Ethics
IC9900 companies demonstrate a clear understanding of the importance of ethical conduct, encouraging employees to participate in this and having internal measures and systems to ensure consistency.
o Encourage the highest standards of ethical conduct among its employees
+ The Company must show integrity when recruiting new staff>
o Recruit and retain staff in accordance with ethical standards.
o Meet the requirements of the Fair Pay scheme.
+ Pay a reasonable wage
+ Protect the rights of employees, whether permenant or contract.
+ Provide a safe and secure environment for employees to work.
# Environments should be free from external threats and dangers, other than those generally accepted by process.
# Environment should be free from internal threats and harressment by other members of staff.
* A clear process must exist for staff to raise greivances, this process must be enforced and displinary action support any findings.
+ Comply with local employment laws.
+ Comply with International Charter HR best practice policies.
* Leadership Values and Integrity
o Companies are encouraged to develop leadership essentials, and begin a program of work with employees to enure these qualities are found at all levers of the organization.
o The company should undertake an annual leadership survey, polling staff on their opinions and suggestions, based on this feedback a leadership strategy should be developed.
o The company's leaders must indicate a clear direction with viable strategy.
o They must not abuse market dominance and not create false barriers to entry.
o End of year reports, such as financial reports, must be validated by both the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. In their absence approval must be sought from the Board of Directors.

EnviroCert : Environmental Certification
EnviroCert is the international environmental certification from the International Charter. It certifies a company as having in place the correct policies to increase sustainability, reduce the footprint of the company, and reduce the environmental impact.

Spyware Certification
Spyware continues to be a growing problem on the internet The Spyware Free Certification programme evaluates software to ensure that the program does not install or execute any forms of malicious code. Programs are evaluated on a number of key operating system platforms, and undergo continuous monitoring during installation, execution and un-installation to ensure that they meet the following key criteria:
* The program does not install any component or support file that is not expressly required for it's function; including registry modifications.
* The program does not execute any other programs without the user informed consent.
* The program does not launch or initiate network connections, unless expressly required by its function or authorised by the user; and does not transmit personal information without user informed consent.
* The program removes itself entirely from the system, including the deletion of all support files and active registry keys.
The evaluation process involves the installation of the application on Microsoft Windows® 98SE, ME, NT4, 2000 and XP Home and Pro builds. The program is then run continuously for a set time period, with logs of all transactions being evaluated. The International Charter also offers the Safe Download program, which certifies an application as safe to download and install.

Benefits of Certification
Certification offers a number of benefits, including acting as a sign that your company is well established and has the necessary structure and process in place to produce high quality products and services. Companies with either IC9700 Business Excellence Certification or Service Excellence Certification gain access to arbitration services from the International Charter, helping to resolve any disputes that may arise. Along with these benefits there are a number of other more quantitative changes. The International Charter conducts a survey of certified companies every year to measure these benefits, both realised and perceived, brought to the company as a result of being certified. The following were found:
Improved consistency of products and services, resulting in higher customer satisfaction
* Average of 45% reduction in customer complaints in the first year.
* 63% of companies reported increase in repeat customers.
* 37% reported increase in value of purchases.
Reduction in production costs through efficiency drives
* 92% of companies reported increased operational efficiency and reduction in waste after certification.
* 53% reported decrease in product cycle times and on average a 60% increase in meeting delivery deadlines.
Improved morale and job satisfaction of employees
* 53% reported increase in the perception of the company in employee surveys.
* 76% report increased transparency resulting in increased pro actively.
Competitive advantage and increased sales opportunities
* 42% of companies reported increase in international sales

Property manager

2011-03-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

A property manager is a person or firm charged with operating a real estate property for a fee, when the owner is unable to personally attend to such details, or is not interested in doing so. The property may be individual title owned or it may be owned under sectional title, share block company owned and may be registered for residential, commercial office and retail or industrial use.

Professional designations

* Real Property Administrator (RPA)
* Facilities Management Administrator (FMA)
* Systems Maintenance Administrator (SMA)
* Systems Maintenance Technician (SMT)

Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)

* Certified Property Manager (CPM)
* Accredited Residential Manager (ARM)
* Accredited Commercial Manager (ACM)
* Accredited Management Organization (AMO)

Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI)

* Accredited Community Manager (ACM)
* Professional Housing Consultant (PHC)

National Apartment Association (NAA) has the following designations:

* Certified Apartment Manager (CAM)
* Certified Apartment Property Supervisor (CAPS)

National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) offers designations to certify ethical and professional standards of conduct for property managers:

* Residential Management Professional (RMP)
* Master Property Manager (MPM)
* Certified Support Specialist (CSS)
* Certified Residential Management Company (CRMC)

State-specific designations:

* California - Certified Community Association Manager (CCAM)
* Florida - Community Association Manager (CAM)
* Minnesota - Certified Community Association Manager (CCAM)
* Minnesota - Certified Residential Manager (CRM)

Professional in Human Resources PHR

2011-03-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is an industry certification for people working in the human resource management profession. The certification, awarded by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HR Certification Institute), signifies that individuals possess the theoretical knowledge and practical experience in human resource management necessary to pass a rigorous examination demonstrating a mastery of the body of knowledge in the field. To be eligible to sit for the PHR exam, an individual must be able to document two years of exempt-level (professional) human resource management experience. However, students or previous college graduates less than 12 months from graduation may also apply, but only through the end of 2010. Starting in 2011, the HR Certification Institute will no longer offer the exam to recent graduates or students who do not possess the required exempt-level work experience. Although two years of exempt-level HR experience is required to sit for the exam, the ideal candidate for this certification is an individual who:
* Focuses on program implementation.
* Has tactical/logistical orientation.
* Has accountability to another HR professional within the organization.
* Has two to four years of exempt-level generalist HR work experience, but because of career length may lack the breadth and depth of a more senior-level generalist.
* Focuses his or her impact on the organization within the HR department rather than organization wide.
* Commands respect through the credibility of knowledge and the use of policies and guidelines to make decisions.

Professional in Human Resources Exam
The exams are administered at computer-based testing centers throughout the world. The exams are offered twice a year: May 1 through June 30 and December 1 through January 31. The exam is knowledge- and experience-based. Candidates are given four hours to answer 225 multiple-choice questions. The test specification are based on the PHR/SPHR Body of Knowledge, which is composed of six functional areas.

Professional in Human Resources Preparation
The HR Certification Institute does not endorse any one way to prepare or study for the PHR exam. There are several organizations that offer study materials and prep courses to assist individuals in their study efforts. Organizations that offers certification preparation are the Society for Human Resources Management , many universities such as Utah State University , and organizations of the like.

Professional in Human Resources Recertification
Recertification is the cornerstone of any reputable certification program. Certifications differ from certificate programs because certifications, by definition, include a work experience component. Certificate programs, on the other hand, award certificates once a course of study has been completed and do not require previous work experience or recertification. To maintain the PHR credential, those passing the PHR exam must recertify every three years through continuing education activities. Recertifying a certificant's designation demonstrates a commitment to stay abreast of changes taking place in the human resource management field.

Accredited public relations professionals

2011-03-27T07:57:00.000-07:00

Accredited public relations professionals is a public relations professional certification provided by Universal Accreditation Board. Accredited in Public Relations (APR) is a voluntary certification program for industry professionals, and is considered the mark of distinction for those who demonstrate commitment to the profession and to its ethical practice. Those who earn the APR demonstrate a broad knowledge, strategic perspective, and sound professional judgment of modern public relations. Currently there are more than 5,000 public relations professionals who hold the APR. The Accreditation program was established in 1964. Its fundamental purpose is to unify and advance the profession by identifying those who have demonstrated broad knowledge, experience and professional judgment in the field.

Qualifications

The Accreditation process is designed for professionals with five or more years of industry experience. To earn the APR, candidates first must complete a written submission to a series of questions on professional experience, their company or organization and readiness to complete the program. If the written submission is approved, the candidate schedules a Readiness Review with a panel of seasoned public relations professionals and presents a portfolio of work. The final element is successfully passing a computer based Examination, which tests the candidate on knowledge, skills and abilities in the practice of public relations. Those who earn the Accreditation can retain the designation for life. However, every three years APRs must complete a maintenance application that details qualifying professional development activities, as well as keep current membership in one UAB member organization.

Membership

The Accreditation process is administered by the Universal Accreditation Board, a consortium of nine leading public relations organizations. The public relations organizations that are members of the Universal Accreditation Program include the Agricultural Relations Council, Florida Public Relations Association, Maine Public Relations Council, National School Public Relations Association, Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), Religion Communicators Council, Southern Public Relations Federation, Texas Public Relations Association and Asociación de Relacionistas Profesionales de Puerto Rico (Puerto Rico Public Relations Association).

Certified Business Continuity Professional

2011-03-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) is internationally recognised professional certification issued by the Disaster Recovery Institute for business continuity management. A certified expert must pass a detailed exam consisting of ten domains and prove his/hers experience in at least five domains for minimum two years.

1. ^ Disaster Recovery Institute International. Certification CBCP. https://www.drii.org/certification/certification_cbcp.php