Top 11 Demand Planner Certifications

Certifications in demand planning are essential for demonstrating competency and expertise in this field. Having a certification can be a valuable asset to demonstrate the level of knowledge and skills a demand planner has in the job market. Certification proves that a demand planner has obtained the necessary training and education to be successful in their role. It also shows employers that they have made an investment in their career and are committed to staying up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices. Certifications help demonstrate a commitment to excellence, which is often highly valued by employers. Additionally, certifications may provide access to professional networks or exclusive job opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Demand Planners and explain how they can boost a Demand Planner's career.

What are Demand Planner Certifications?

Demand planner certification is a type of professional certification designed to help supply chain and logistics professionals understand how to effectively plan for demand, manage inventory levels, and maximize customer service. The certification program provides individuals with the skills necessary to effectively measure and forecast future customer demand for products and services. This can help organizations better manage their resources, optimize their operations, and improve customer satisfaction.

Demand planner certification focuses on teaching individuals the fundamentals of demand planning and forecasting, including topics such as applying statistical analysis techniques, understanding market trends, using data to make decisions, managing inventory levels, and developing strategies for meeting customer needs. Additionally, it will equip them with the knowledge needed to develop an effective demand planning process that meets organizational goals.

By obtaining demand planner certification, individuals will be able to demonstrate their expertise in this field to employers or clients. This could result in increased job opportunities or higher pay rates. Furthermore, having this credential may also help organizations save time and money by improving their overall supply chain performance. Ultimately, obtaining a demand planner certification can have a positive impact on an individual's career prospects as well as an organization's bottom line.

Pro Tip: Make sure to complete all of the required pre-certification activities before signing up for a demand planner certification program. This will ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the topics covered in the course and can maximize your learning experience.

Related: What does a Demand Planner do?

Top 11 Demand Planner Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Demand Planners today.

1. APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to help professionals understand and apply best practices in production and inventory management.

The CPIM program consists of five courses: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. Each course is designed to provide an understanding of the concepts and techniques used in production and inventory management.

The CPIM program takes approximately 18 months to complete. To get certified, you must pass all five courses with a minimum score of 70%. You can take the courses online or in-person at an APICS approved training center. The cost for the CPIM program varies depending on where you take the courses; however, it typically ranges from $2,000-$3,500 USD.

2. APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to become successful supply chain professionals. The CSCP program is administered by APICS, an international organization dedicated to advancing the science of supply chain management.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: a comprehensive online course, an examination, and a recertification process. The course covers topics such as supply chain design, inventory management, global logistics, customer service, and operations management. It takes approximately eight months to complete the course and pass the exam.

To get certified as a CSCP, you must first register for the program on the APICS website and pay the application fee of $695 USD. Once registered, you will be given access to the online course materials which include videos, readings, quizzes and practice exams. After completing all of the course material you can schedule your exam with Pearson VUE Testing Centers located around the world. The cost of taking the exam is $795 USD.

Once you have passed your exam you will receive your certification from APICS along with a digital badge that can be displayed on websites or social media profiles. To maintain your certification status you must recertify every three years by either taking additional courses or earning professional development points through activities such as attending conferences or participating in webinars.

3. Institute of Business Forecasting & Planning (IBF) Certified Demand Planner

The Institute of Business Forecasting & Planning (IBF) Certified Demand Planner is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to effectively forecast demand and plan for future business needs. This certification is designed to help businesses ensure their forecasting and planning processes are effective, efficient, and accurate.

It takes approximately 10-12 weeks to complete the IBF Certified Demand Planner program. The program consists of four courses: Introduction to Demand Planning, Forecasting Techniques & Analytics, Advanced Demand Planning, and Supply Chain Optimization. Each course requires approximately 30 hours of study time.

To become an IBF Certified Demand Planner, individuals must pass all four courses with a score of 70% or higher on each exam. After passing the exams, individuals must also complete a Capstone Project in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the IBF Certified Demand Planner program is $1,995 USD. This fee covers all four courses as well as the Capstone Project and the certification exam fees.

4. IBF Advanced Demand Planning Certification

IBF Advanced Demand Planning Certification is a certification program offered by the Institute of Business Forecasting and Planning (IBF). It is designed to help professionals learn how to develop, implement, and maintain effective demand planning processes. The certification requires participants to complete a series of online courses, including topics such as forecasting techniques, demand planning best practices, and inventory optimization. The program also includes an online assessment that tests the participant’s knowledge of the material.

The IBF Advanced Demand Planning Certification can be completed in approximately four months. Participants must attend all four courses in order to qualify for the certification. Each course takes approximately one month to complete and can be taken at your own pace.

To get IBF Advanced Demand Planning Certification, you must first register with the IBF website. Once registered, you will be able to access all four courses and take the online assessment when ready. You will then need to submit your results for review by IBF staff before being awarded the certification.

The cost of the IBF Advanced Demand Planning Certification program is $2,495 USD. This fee covers all four courses and the online assessment.

5. IBF Sales and Operations Planning Certification

IBF Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) Certification is a certification program designed to help professionals develop the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage S&OP processes. The certification is offered through the Institute of Business Forecasting & Planning (IBF).

The IBF S&OP Certification program consists of three levels: Associate, Professional, and Master. Each level requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as demand planning, sales forecasting, inventory management, supply chain management, and more.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the entire certification process depending on the individual's experience level. To get started with the certification process, individuals must first become a member of IBF. Membership fees vary based on region and type of membership but generally range from $50-$200 USD per year.

Once membership is established, individuals can register for each level’s exam by paying a fee that ranges from $150-$400 USD per exam. After successfully completing all three exams, individuals will receive their IBF S&OP Certification certificate in the mail.

6. IBF Master Data Management Certification

IBF Master Data Management Certification is a comprehensive certification program offered by the International Business Forum (IBF). It is designed to help professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to become successful in the field of data management. The certification covers topics such as data governance, data quality, data architecture, data integration, and more.

The IBF Master Data Management Certification is a self-paced program that can be completed in as little as three months. It consists of eight modules, each focusing on a different area of data management. Each module includes online lectures, quizzes, and hands-on activities. Upon completion of all eight modules, participants will receive an official IBF Master Data Management Certificate.

To get the IBF Master Data Management Certification, you must first complete all eight modules and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. After successfully completing the program, you can apply for your certificate through the IBF website.

The cost of the IBF Master Data Management Certification varies depending on which version you choose. The standard version costs $1,995 USD while the premium version costs $2,495 USD.

7. APICS Certified Supply Chain Logistics Professional (CLTD)

APICS Certified Supply Chain Logistics Professional (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by APICS, the Association for Operations Management. The CLTD credential is designed to recognize supply chain logistics professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and understanding of the latest trends and practices in the field. It is the only certification program of its kind that covers end-to-end supply chain logistics topics, from transportation and warehousing to global supply chain management.

The CLTD certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in logistics, transportation or distribution, as well as a passing score on an exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as inventory management, global supply chain strategies, transportation and warehouse operations, and customer service. The exam can be taken at any Prometric testing center worldwide.

The cost of obtaining the CLTD certification varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or not. For non-members, the cost is $495 USD for the exam registration fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam at a Prometric testing center. For APICS members, the cost is $395 USD for the exam registration fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam at a Prometric testing center.

It typically takes about six months to complete all requirements for obtaining your CLTD certification. This includes studying for and passing your exam as well as completing any other required paperwork or activities associated with becoming certified.

8. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) CFPIM

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CFPIM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in production and inventory management. It is the highest-level certification offered by APICS, which is the leading global provider of supply chain and operations management education, training, and certification.

The CFPIM exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as production planning, inventory control, quality control, purchasing, logistics, and operations management. The exam typically takes four hours to complete. To be eligible for the CFPIM certification program, applicants must have at least three years of experience in production or inventory management or have completed an APICS-approved course.

To obtain the CFPIM certification, applicants must pass the CFPIM exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of the exam varies depending on your country/region but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

9. Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) CPIM-F

The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM-F) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and understanding of the principles of production and inventory management. The CPIM-F credential is designed to help supply chain professionals improve their skills and career opportunities in the field.

The CPIM-F certification requires applicants to pass a series of five exams: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. Candidates must also complete a comprehensive final exam. The exams cover topics such as supply chain strategy, inventory control, demand forecasting, operations planning, purchasing and supplier relationships, quality assurance, performance metrics, project management, customer service management, process improvement techniques, global sourcing strategies, logistics management principles, warehousing concepts and more.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete all five exams required for the CPIM-F certification. Each exam has an associated fee which varies depending on the country where you take it. In the United States fees range from $200-$400 per exam with discounts available for members of ASCM or other professional organizations.

In order to get certified as an ASCM CPIM-F professional you must first register for the program with ASCM online or by phone. After registering you will receive access to study materials which will help prepare you for the exams including sample questions and practice tests. Once you are ready to take the exams you can schedule them at one of ASCM's approved testing centers located throughout the world. Upon successful completion of all five exams your name will be added to the list of certified professionals on ASCM's website.

10. Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) CSCP-F

The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) Certified Supply Chain Professional-Foundation (CSCP-F) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the fundamental concepts and principles of supply chain management. It is the only globally recognized professional certification in the field of supply chain management.

The CSCP-F credential is designed for professionals with at least two years of experience in the field, or those who are new to the profession but have a strong understanding of supply chain fundamentals. The certification requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as inventory management, transportation, procurement, customer service, and risk management.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete all requirements for the CSCP-F certification. This includes studying for and passing the exam, completing an application form, submitting supporting documents such as transcripts or certificates, and paying any applicable fees.

To get certified as a CSCP-F you must first register with ASCM and pay an application fee. You then need to prepare for the exam by studying relevant materials or taking a course from an approved provider. Once you feel ready to take the exam, you can register online through ASCM's website or contact one of their approved testing centers directly. After passing the exam you will need to submit your application form along with any required supporting documents before your certification can be granted.

The cost of obtaining your CSCP-F certification varies depending on whether you choose to study independently or take a course from an approved provider. Generally speaking, it costs around $750 USD for self-study materials plus $495 USD for the exam fee if taken through ASCM's website; however this may vary depending on where you take your exam and what type of study materials you purchase.

11. International Institute of Forecasters (IIF) Certified Forecast Professional

The International Institute of Forecasters (IIF) Certified Forecast Professional is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of individuals in the field of forecasting. The IIF Certified Forecast Professional (CFP) is awarded to those who demonstrate excellence in the practice of forecasting and its related disciplines.

It takes approximately 8-12 months to complete the CFP program. To get certified, applicants must meet certain prerequisites, including having at least three years of experience in forecasting and/or related disciplines, and pass an online written exam. Once these requirements are met, applicants will be invited to take part in an online assessment that includes a series of multiple-choice questions and case studies. Upon successful completion of this assessment, applicants will receive their CFP designation.

The cost for the CFP program varies depending on where you live and whether or not you are a member of IIF. For non-members, the cost is $995 USD plus applicable taxes; for members it is $795 USD plus applicable taxes.

Do You Really Need a Demand Planner Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a demand planner certificate to become a successful demand planner. However, having such a certification could help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your commitment to the field.

Demand planning is a complex role that requires strong analytical skills, an understanding of supply chain management principles, and the ability to interpret data. Therefore, some employers may be more likely to hire candidates who have taken the time to obtain a certificate in demand planning. Such certification can show employers that you understand the fundamentals of the job and have invested in developing your skills.

In addition, having a certificate in demand planning could open up new opportunities for professional development and career advancement. For example, many organizations offer training programs or seminars specifically designed for certified professionals. Additionally, having a certificate might make it easier for you to secure promotions or move into higher-level positions within your organization.

Ultimately, whether or not you decide to get a demand planner certificate is up to you and should depend on your individual goals and circumstances. If you believe that having such certification will help you achieve success as a demand planner, then it may be worth considering obtaining one.

Related: Demand Planner Resume Examples

FAQs About Demand Planner Certifications

1. What are the benefits of becoming a Demand Planner?

Answer: Becoming a Demand Planner can provide you with an in-depth understanding of supply chain management and forecasting, giving you the skills to develop efficient processes and maximize profits. It also provides opportunities for career advancement, increased job security and higher salaries.

2. How do I become a certified Demand Planner?

Answer: To become certified as a Demand Planner, you must complete a certification program offered by an accredited institution or organization. These programs typically involve classes, exams and hands-on experience in supply chain management and forecasting techniques.

3. What is the cost of becoming a certified Demand Planner?

Answer: The cost of becoming a certified Demand Planner varies depending on the program you choose to complete. Generally, you can expect to pay between $2,000-$4,000 for most certification programs.

4. How long does it take to become a certified Demand Planner?

Answer: Most certification programs require between two and four years of study to complete, although some may be completed in less time depending on your prior experience in the field.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified Demand Planner?

Answer: Yes, many certification programs require applicants to have prior experience in supply chain management or forecasting before they can apply for the program. You may also need to pass an exam or demonstrate proficiency in certain areas before being accepted into the program.