Top 11 Implementation Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for an implementation analyst in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has a certain level of knowledge and skills in specific areas. Certifications also provide employers with assurance that the individual is qualified to perform certain tasks and help to validate their experience. Additionally, certifications can be seen as a mark of excellence, showing potential employers that the analyst is committed to staying up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. Finally, certifications can be used as a tool for professional development, helping analysts stay competitive in the job market.

The article reviews the top certifications for Implementation Analysts and explains how they can help to advance an implementation analyst's career.

What are Implementation Analyst Certifications?

Implementation analyst certification is a type of professional certification that validates the skills and knowledge of an individual in the field of implementation analysis. This certification is offered through various professional organizations, such as the International Institute for Implementation Analysis (IIIA). The IIIA provides both online and in-person training and certifications for individuals who wish to become certified in this field.

The goal of this certification is to ensure that individuals have mastered the necessary skills and knowledge needed to successfully analyze, implement, and manage software implementations. The program covers topics such as project management, system design, database management, user interface design, business process modeling, analytics, testing and quality assurance. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals receive a certificate that can be used to demonstrate their expertise in this area.

Having an implementation analyst certification can help individuals stand out among other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. It also demonstrates an individual’s commitment to staying current on best practices and industry trends related to software implementation. In addition, having this certification may qualify an individual for higher pay or better job opportunities.

Pro Tip: Before applying for an implementation analyst certification, make sure that you have a strong understanding of the software and solutions used in the industry. Additionally, research the certifying body to ensure that their credentials are recognized by employers in your field. Finally, take advantage of online resources to review material relevant to the certification exam.

Related: What does an Implementation Analyst do?

Top 11 Implementation Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Implementation Analysts today.

1. Certified Implementation Analyst (CIA)

Certified Implementation Analyst (CIA) is a certification program offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). It is designed to provide internal auditors with the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully implement an internal audit process. The CIA certification requires passing three exams: Internal Audit Basics, Internal Audit Practices, and Internal Audit Processes. Each exam has its own set of objectives and must be passed in order to earn the certification.

The CIA certification typically takes between one and two years to complete depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exams. To get started, you will need to register with the IIA and pay a registration fee. After registering, you will receive access to study materials and practice tests which can help prepare you for the exams. Once you have completed all three exams, you will be eligible for the CIA certification.

The cost of obtaining a CIA certification varies depending on which country or region you are located in but generally ranges from $500 - $2,000 USD. This includes registration fees as well as any additional costs associated with taking the exams such as travel expenses or exam prep courses.

2. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a professional certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have the knowledge and experience to effectively analyze business needs, develop solutions, and manage change. The CBAP certification is intended for experienced business analysts who have at least 7500 hours of experience in the field.

In order to obtain the CBAP certification, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements as set out by IIBA. These include having a minimum of 7500 hours of business analysis work experience within the last 10 years and two references from a current or former employer or client verifying this experience. Applicants must also pass an exam consisting of 150 multiple-choice questions that test their knowledge of business analysis principles, techniques, and best practices.

The exam can be taken either online or in-person at an authorized testing center. The cost for the exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $325 - $400 USD. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their CBAP certification which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

3. Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)

A Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) is a professional who has been certified by the Scrum Alliance to work with a Scrum team in order to deliver successful products. The CSPO is responsible for understanding customer needs and translating them into product requirements, managing the product backlog, and ensuring that the team is working on the right things at the right time.

It typically takes two days to complete the CSPO certification course. During this time, participants will learn about Scrum methodology, product ownership principles and responsibilities, techniques for effective backlog management, and strategies for engaging stakeholders.

In order to become a CSPO, individuals must attend an official CSPO training course led by a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST). After completing the course, they must pass an online assessment in order to receive their certification.

The cost of attending a CSPO training course varies depending on the trainer and location. Generally speaking, it costs between $1,000 - $2,000 USD per person.

4. PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)

PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMI-ACP is designed to recognize a professional’s knowledge and skills in using agile methodologies and tools. It is an industry-recognized certification for project managers who use agile practices in their projects.

The PMI-ACP requires 21 contact hours of training in agile practices, 1,500 hours of general project experience within the last five years, and 2,000 hours of agile project experience within the last three years.

To obtain the PMI-ACP certification, you must pass an exam that consists of 120 multiple choice questions. The exam fee is $435 for PMI members and $495 for non-members. You can prepare for the exam by taking a PMI-approved course or self-studying with materials available online or through books.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of PMI. For members, it costs $435 while nonmembers pay $495. Additionally, you may need to pay for any training courses or materials that you use to prepare for the exam.

5. Certified Solutions Architect (CSA)

Certified Solutions Architect (CSA) is a professional certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, building, and deploying cloud-based solutions. It is offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS), the world’s largest provider of cloud computing services.

The CSA exam consists of multiple choice and multiple response questions that cover topics such as architecture design, security, networking, storage, scalability, availability, cost optimization, and data management. The exam also includes a hands-on component where candidates must demonstrate their ability to implement a solution on AWS.

The duration of the CSA exam varies depending on the number of questions answered correctly. On average it takes between 3-4 hours to complete the exam.

To get certified as a CSA you must first register for the exam online through AWS Certification Portal. Once registered you will be able to schedule your exam at any authorized testing center near you. You can also take the exam online from home or office using an approved proctoring service such as ProctorU or Kryterion Global Testing Solutions.

The cost of taking the CSA exam is $150 USD for each attempt. Additionally there may be additional fees for scheduling an in-person appointment at a testing center or using a proctoring service online.

6. TOGAF 9 Certified Architect

TOGAF 9 Certified Architect is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the TOGAF 9 standard. It is an industry-recognized credential for enterprise architects.

The TOGAF 9 Certified Architect program consists of two exams: Level 1 (Foundation) and Level 2 (Certified). The Level 1 exam tests basic knowledge and understanding of the TOGAF 9 standard, while the Level 2 exam tests more advanced concepts, such as architecture development methodologies and principles.

It typically takes around 6 months to prepare for the exams, depending on your existing knowledge of the TOGAF 9 standard. To become certified, you must pass both exams within a 12-month period.

The cost of becoming a TOGAF 9 Certified Architect varies depending on where you take the exams. The cost for both exams in North America is roughly $1,000 USD; however, discounts may be available if you are taking them through an accredited training provider or educational institution.

In addition to paying for the exams, it is recommended that you purchase study materials to help you prepare for the tests. These materials can range from books to online courses and can cost anywhere from $50 - $500 USD depending on which ones you choose.

7. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is an entry-level certification that provides individuals with a basic understanding of the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) framework. The ITIL framework is a set of best practices for managing and delivering IT services. It is used by organizations to ensure that their IT services are aligned with business objectives and goals.

The ITIL Foundation certification requires candidates to complete a two-day training course and pass an exam. The course covers topics such as service strategy, service design, service transition, service operation, continual service improvement, and the ITIL service lifecycle. During the course, students will learn how to apply the concepts of the ITIL framework in their organization’s environment.

To get certified, you must first register for an accredited training provider who offers the official ITIL Foundation certification program. You can find accredited providers on the AXELOS website or through other online search engines. After completing your training course, you must then pass the official exam which consists of 40 multiple choice questions.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you take your training course and whether or not you choose to purchase additional materials such as textbooks or practice exams. Generally speaking, most courses range from $500-$1000 USD depending on location and materials purchased.

In summary, obtaining an ITIL Foundation Certification requires completing a two-day training course and passing an exam consisting of 40 multiple choice questions at a cost ranging from $500-$1000 USD depending on location and materials purchased.

8. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a level of mastery in the Six Sigma methodology. This certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to identify and solve problems using data-driven methods, as well as their understanding of the principles of Lean and Six Sigma.

The Six Sigma Green Belt Certification usually takes about two months to complete. It can be completed through self-study or by attending a formal training program. The cost for self-study courses varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. If you choose to attend a formal training program, costs can range from $2,000-$4,000 USD depending on the length and quality of the course.

To become certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first pass an exam that covers topics such as process improvement techniques, problem solving tools and statistical analysis methods. Depending on the provider, you may also need to complete additional coursework or projects before being eligible for certification. Once you have successfully passed the exam and met any other requirements (if applicable), you will receive your official Six Sigma Green Belt Certification.

9. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a mastery of Lean Six Sigma tools and processes. It is designed to help organizations improve their operational performance, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.

The Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification program typically takes between four to eight weeks to complete. The program consists of both classroom instruction and on-the-job training. During the classroom portion, participants learn how to use the Lean Six Sigma methodology to identify and solve problems within their organization. They also receive instruction on how to lead teams in implementing process improvements. During the on-the-job training portion, participants apply what they have learned in real world situations and demonstrate their ability to understand and implement Lean Six Sigma principles.

To become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, individuals must pass an exam administered by an accredited certifying body such as ASQ or IASSC. The exam covers topics such as project management, data analysis, process improvement techniques, problem solving skills, change management strategies, and more.

The cost of the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification varies depending on the certifying body chosen and whether or not additional materials are purchased for study purposes. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,500 - $3,000 USD for the entire program including exam fees.

10. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification program developed by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is a globally recognized credential for project managers. The PMP credential signifies that the individual has achieved an advanced level of competence in leading and directing projects.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for PMP certification. To become certified, applicants must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or the global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience, with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education; or a four-year degree with at least three years of project management experience, with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

The cost for the PMP exam varies depending on where you take it. The fee to take the exam in North America is $555 USD for members of PMI and $405 USD for non-members. Other fees may apply if you are taking the exam outside North America.

Once you have completed all of the requirements to become certified as a PMP, you will need to pass an examination administered by PMI. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering topics such as initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling, closing projects; professional responsibility; scope & schedule; cost & quality; risk & procurement; communication & stakeholders; integration & governance. You will have four hours to complete the exam.

11. Certified Business Analysis Professional – Advanced Level (CBAP-AL)

Certified Business Analysis Professional – Advanced Level (CBAP-AL) is a certification program offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize experienced business analysis professionals who have demonstrated a mastery of the skills and knowledge required to practice business analysis at an advanced level.

To earn the CBAP-AL certification, applicants must meet certain prerequisites, including having seven or more years of professional experience in business analysis and having two or more years of experience in each of three knowledge areas. Applicants must also pass an exam that tests their knowledge and skills in these areas.

The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions, which must be completed within four hours. The cost for the exam is $485 USD, although discounts may be available for members of IIBA and other organizations.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will be awarded the CBAP-AL certification. This certification is valid for three years, after which time it must be renewed by taking additional courses or retaking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Implementation Analyst Certificate?

When it comes to whether or not you need an Implementation Analyst Certificate, the answer depends on your career goals and the type of job you are looking for. If you want to become an Implementation Analyst, then having a certificate in this field is definitely recommended. It will give you an edge over other applicants and demonstrate to employers that you have taken the time and effort to learn about this specialized area of expertise.

A certificate in implementation analysis can provide employers with proof that you have been trained in a specific set of skills related to developing, implementing, and managing systems. This can include courses such as business process modeling, system analysis, database design, programming, software development lifecycle management, data integration, project management and more. Having a certification makes you more attractive to potential employers because it shows that you have the knowledge and experience needed to help them with their projects.

In addition to providing potential employers with evidence of your qualifications, having an implementation analyst certificate can also be beneficial if you ever decide to pursue higher education or advance within your current profession. Many universities offer graduate programs that specialize in this area of expertise and having a certification can help open doors for further study and advancement opportunities.

Overall, getting an Implementation Analyst Certificate is not essential but it may be beneficial depending on your career goals and the type of job you are looking for. If becoming an Implementation Analyst is something that interests you then obtaining a certification could be worth considering.

Related: Implementation Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Implementation Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is an Implementation Analyst Certification?

Answer: An Implementation Analyst Certification is a professional certification that validates the knowledge and skills needed to successfully implement business solutions and systems. It demonstrates a candidate’s proficiency in areas such as project management, requirements gathering, testing, data analysis, and solution design.

Q2. What are the benefits of getting an Implementation Analyst Certification?

Answer: Obtaining an Implementation Analyst Certification can help you gain recognition within your field, increase your earning potential, and open up job opportunities. Additionally, it provides the necessary skills to develop and implement effective business solutions and systems.

Q3. How do I become certified as an Implementation Analyst?

Answer: To become certified as an Implementation Analyst, you must first pass a certification exam which covers topics related to system implementation such as project management, requirements gathering, testing, data analysis, and solution design. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official certification from the certifying organization.

Q4. What types of organizations offer Implementation Analyst Certifications?

Answer: Various organizations offer Implementation Analyst Certifications including CompTIA, Oracle University, Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP), and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). Each organization has its own set of requirements for obtaining certification so make sure to research which one is best suited for your needs before enrolling in a program.

Q5. How long does it take to get certified as an Implementation Analyst?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified as an Implementation Analyst depends on the certifying organization you choose. Generally speaking though most certifications can be obtained within 3-6 months if you dedicate yourself to studying for the exams and completing any additional coursework or training required by the certifying body.