A professional certification is a formal recognition that an individual has demonstrated a proficiency within, and comprehension of, a specified body of knowledge (BoK). A BoK establishes the scope of a professional certification that assesses a candidate’s knowledge of the concepts, terms, and activities that make up a professional domain. Professional certifications add value because they demonstrate an individual’s expertise, document proof of knowledge to a specified BoK, and provide a mark of technical excellence. Certifications also demonstrate a commitment to a profession and—because many certified professionals commonly become so of their own volition—demonstrate a person’s initiative.
Professional certifications remain of value if the BoK stays relevant, are based on independent and authenticated information, and are tightly and impartially controlled. Bodies of knowledge are dynamic, constantly evolving and keeping relevant as technology advances and methodologies improve. In order for a professional certification to remain relevant, those administering certifications must periodically review and update the BoK—and subsequently the examination’s contents. Though exam maintenance is an expensive and time consuming activity, by doing so, the organization maintaining it retains the value and integrity of its professional certifications.