Top 11 Document Control Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for a document control manager because they demonstrate that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their job duties. Certifications also demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has taken the initiative to stay up-to-date on best practices and new technologies. With certifications, employers can be sure that their document control manager is knowledgeable and competent in their field, which can give them confidence in hiring or promoting someone for the position. Additionally, certifications may provide an advantage over other applicants who do not have any certifications, giving a document control manager a better chance at being hired or promoted.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Document Control Managers and explains how they can help to advance a document control manager's career.

What are Document Control Manager Certifications?

Document control manager certification is a professional certification that is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage document control processes in a variety of industries. Document control managers are responsible for ensuring that all documents related to an organization’s products and services are properly managed, stored, updated, and tracked. This includes managing the development, review, approval, distribution, retention, archiving and destruction of documents.

By obtaining this certification, individuals demonstrate their expertise in document control management processes. This can help employers evaluate potential candidates for document control positions more efficiently by providing evidence of an individual’s knowledge and skill set in this area. Additionally, it can help current document control managers advance their careers by demonstrating their commitment to ongoing learning and development.

Document control manager certification helps ensure that organizations have qualified personnel who understand the importance of proper documentation management practices. It also provides assurance that any documentation related to the organization’s products or services meets applicable industry standards and regulations. Ultimately, having certified professionals on staff can help organizations minimize risk associated with improper document management while improving efficiency and productivity.

Pro Tip: Make sure that any document control manager certification you pursue includes the most up-to-date information on the latest industry standards and regulations. This will ensure that your certification is current and relevant, helping to increase your marketability in the field.

Related: What does a Document Control Manager do?

Top 11 Document Control Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Document Control Managers today.

1. Certified Document Control Manager (CDCM)

Certified Document Control Manager (CDCM) is a professional certification program designed to provide document control professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage document control processes. The CDCM certification is offered by the International Association of Document Control Professionals (IADCP).

The CDCM certification process consists of three parts: an online course, a written exam, and a practical exam. The online course covers topics such as document control principles, document management systems, and document control best practices. The written exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of these topics. Finally, the practical exam assesses the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete all three parts of the CDCM certification process. Candidates must complete all parts within two years in order to be eligible for certification.

The cost for the CDCM certification varies depending on which country you are taking it from. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for the entire process including the online course, written exam, and practical exam fees.

2. Certified Records Manager (CRM)

Certified Records Manager (CRM) is a professional designation that recognizes the expertise and experience of records management professionals. It is awarded by ARMA International, the association for information management professionals.

To become a CRM, individuals must meet certain educational and work experience requirements and pass an exam administered by ARMA International. The exam covers topics such as records management principles, policies, procedures, and technologies.

It typically takes three to five years to complete the requirements for the CRM designation. To qualify, applicants must have at least three years of full-time records management experience or equivalent part-time experience within the past five years. They must also have completed at least 24 hours of approved continuing education in records management during the past five years or have earned a degree in information science or related field from an accredited college or university.

To get certified as a CRM, applicants must first fill out an application form and submit it to ARMA International along with proof of their educational qualifications and work experience. Once their application has been accepted, they can register for the exam online through ARMA International's website.

The cost of becoming a CRM varies depending on whether you are an ARMA International member or non-member. For members, the cost is $395 USD; for non-members it is $495 USD. This fee includes access to study materials and practice exams as well as registration for the actual exam itself.

3. Certified Document Imaging Architect (CDIA+)

Certified Document Imaging Architect (CDIA+) is an industry-recognized certification that validates a professional’s knowledge and skill in designing, implementing, and managing document imaging systems. It is designed to ensure that individuals have the necessary skills to develop and manage document imaging solutions that are secure, compliant with regulations, and cost effective.

The CDIA+ certification requires applicants to pass a two-hour exam consisting of 75 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as document imaging principles, workflow analysis, information management, system design and implementation, project management, security and privacy considerations, and regulatory compliance.

In order to be eligible for the CDIA+ certification exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in document imaging or related fields. Applicants must also have completed at least one approved course in document imaging or related fields within the past two years.

The CDIA+ certification exam costs $250 USD. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide or online via remote proctoring. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CDIA+ certificate from AIIM International within four weeks.

4. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification program developed by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize and validate an individual’s project management knowledge and experience. The PMP credential is highly sought after in the project management industry, as it demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of successful project management.

In order to become certified as a PMP, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least 4500 hours of project management experience over the last 8 years or 7500 hours if you have a bachelor’s degree, 35 contact hours of formal education in project management, and passing the PMP exam.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover five domains: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for the PMP certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI. For members, the cost is $405 USD; for non-members it is $555 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees and exam preparation materials.

5. Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)

Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to help quality professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in auditing, monitoring, and evaluating quality systems. The CQA certification is based on the ISO 9001:2015 standard and provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to audit quality management systems.

It typically takes about three months to complete all of the requirements for the CQA certification. To get certified, you must first pass an exam administered by ASQ. You must also have at least 8 years of work experience in quality assurance or related fields, including at least 3 years of auditing experience. Additionally, you must submit evidence of continuing professional development activities such as attending workshops or conferences related to quality assurance.

The cost of obtaining the CQA certification varies depending on your location and whether you are a member of ASQ or not. Generally speaking, it costs around $450-$600 to take the exam, plus any additional fees associated with registering for the exam and submitting your application materials.

6. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge of quality engineering principles and practices. The CQE certification is recognized as a mark of excellence in the field of quality engineering.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the CQE exam. This includes studying, taking practice exams, and understanding the concepts behind the questions. To become certified, you must pass a multiple-choice exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 200 questions and covers topics such as quality management systems, statistical process control, design of experiments, and reliability engineering.

The cost of taking the CQE exam varies depending on your location and whether or not you are an ASQ member. In general, it costs around $400-$500 USD to take the exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with study materials or prep courses that you choose to purchase.

Overall, becoming a Certified Quality Engineer can be a great way to demonstrate your expertise in quality engineering and enhance your career prospects in this field.

7. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates the holder's understanding of Six Sigma principles and their ability to apply them in the workplace. It is designed for individuals who are responsible for leading and executing process improvement initiatives within their organization.

The certification process typically takes between three to six months, depending on the individual's experience level and the specific requirements of their organization. To get certified, an individual must complete a training program or course in Six Sigma principles, pass an exam, and demonstrate mastery of the concepts through a project or case study.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the type of training program chosen. Generally, online courses are cheaper than instructor-led classes, but both can be expensive. In addition to course fees, there may also be fees associated with taking the exam and submitting any required projects or case studies.

Overall, obtaining Six Sigma Green Belt Certification can be a rewarding experience that provides valuable skills and knowledge which can help improve processes within an organization.

8. ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification

ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification is a certification program designed to train and assess auditors in the principles and practices of auditing management systems based on ISO 9001. The certification is awarded by the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA) and provides assurance that an auditor has the necessary knowledge, experience, and skills to perform audits in accordance with international standards.

The certification process typically takes between three to six months, depending on the individual’s prior experience. In order to become certified, candidates must complete an IRCA-approved training course, pass an examination, and demonstrate at least two years of relevant work experience in quality management or auditing.

The cost of obtaining ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification can vary depending on the provider and location of the training course. Generally speaking, it will cost between $3,000 - $4,500 USD for tuition fees alone. Additional costs may include travel expenses, accommodation fees, exam fees, etc., so it is important to factor these into your budget when planning for certification.

9. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a mastery of the Lean Six Sigma Methodology. It is designed to help professionals identify and eliminate waste, improve quality, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction. The certification requires a thorough understanding of the Lean Six Sigma methodology, including the DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) process.

The certification typically takes 6 to 8 weeks to complete. It includes classroom instruction, individual projects, and an exam. The coursework covers topics such as problem solving, data analysis, project management, and process improvement.

To become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, you must first complete the Green Belt training program. After completing the Green Belt program, you can then apply for the Black Belt program through an accredited provider or organization.

The cost of the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification varies depending on the provider or organization offering it. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000 to $4,000 USD for the entire course and exam fees combined.

10. Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundation Certification

Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundation Certification is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a knowledge and understanding of the ITIL framework. It is designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage IT services, support, and delivery.

The ITIL Foundation Certification is a one-day course that covers the core concepts of IT service management, as well as best practices for implementing and managing IT services. The course includes topics such as service strategy, service design, service transition, service operations, continual service improvement, and more. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, individuals will receive their official certification from AXELOS Global Best Practice.

To get certified in ITIL Foundation Certification, individuals must attend an accredited training provider or take an online self-study course. After completing the training program or self-study course, individuals must pass a 60-minute multiple choice exam with a minimum score of 65%.

The cost of the ITIL Foundation Certification varies depending on the provider chosen but typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD for both the training program and exam fees.

11. Microsoft Office Specialist Certifications

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certifications are a set of credentials that demonstrate an individual’s proficiency in using Microsoft Office applications. They are designed to validate the skills and knowledge necessary to productively use Microsoft Office programs, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Outlook.

To become a Microsoft Office Specialist, individuals must pass one or more exams that cover the features and functionality of the specific version of Microsoft Office they wish to be certified in. The exams are designed to measure an individual’s ability to complete tasks within each application.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual’s level of experience and familiarity with the program they are taking the exam for. Generally speaking, most people can expect to spend between two and four weeks studying for each exam.

To get certified, individuals must register for and take one or more MOS exams through a Pearson VUE testing center. There is no cost associated with registering for an exam; however, there is a fee associated with taking each exam which varies depending on the country you reside in.

Do You Really Need a Document Control Manager Certificate?

A document control manager certificate is a valuable asset for anyone looking to enter the field of document management. It provides proof of professional competence and knowledge in the area of document control, as well as demonstrating that you have taken the time to obtain specialized training in this important field.

The answer to whether or not you need a document control manager certificate depends on your individual goals and situation. If you are looking to get a job in the field of document management, having a certificate can certainly give you an edge over other candidates who do not have one. It shows potential employers that you are dedicated to learning about document control, and that you have invested in your own education. In addition, many organizations require at least some level of certification for certain positions, so having a certificate could be necessary for certain job opportunities.

On the other hand, if you already have experience with managing documents and are confident in your abilities, then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary. However, it could still be beneficial if it allows you to hone your skills further or if it opens up new job opportunities with companies or organizations that require certification. Ultimately, only you can decide if getting a document control manager certificate is right for you.

Related: Document Control Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Document Control Manager Certifications

1. What are the prerequisites for obtaining a Document Control Manager Certification?

Answer: The prerequisites for obtaining a Document Control Manager Certification vary by organization, but typically include a combination of experience working with documents in an administrative or managerial role and passing an examination. Some organizations may also require additional educational requirements such as a college degree or specialized training.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Document Control Manager?

Answer: The length of time required to obtain certification as a Document Control Manager will depend on the organization issuing the certification, the requirements of the program, and the individual’s experience level and study habits. Generally, it can take anywhere from several months to over one year to become certified.

3. What skills are necessary for someone to become a successful Document Control Manager?

Answer: Successful Document Control Managers possess strong organizational, communication and problem-solving skills, as well as an understanding of document management systems and processes. Additionally, they must be able to work with different types of people while managing multiple projects simultaneously.

4. What is the cost associated with obtaining a Document Control Manager Certification?

Answer: The cost associated with obtaining certification varies by organization but typically includes registration fees, course materials and any applicable exam fees. The total cost can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand depending on the program chosen and other factors.

5. Are there continual education requirements once I have obtained my certification?

Answer: Some organizations may require that you complete continuing education courses in order to maintain your certification; however, this is not always required depending on the certifying body and specific program you have completed. It is important to check with your certifying organization directly for more detailed information regarding their specific requirements.