Top 11 Implementation Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for an implementation specialist in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. They show employers that the individual has taken the time to gain a specialized understanding of the subject matter, which is critical when it comes to implementing software or other systems. Certifications also provide evidence that the individual has passed rigorous exams and tests, proving their capabilities in their field. Finally, certifications can help implementation specialists stand out from other applicants and make them more attractive to potential employers.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Implementation Specialists and explain how they can help further their career.

What are Implementation Specialist Certifications?

Implementation specialist certification is a type of professional certification that is designed to help individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in the implementation of software and other technology solutions. This type of certification provides an individual with the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully implement software, hardware, and other technical solutions. It also provides them with the ability to understand and apply best practices for successful implementation, as well as troubleshoot any problems that may arise during the process.

The benefits of having an implementation specialist certification are numerous. Those who have this certification have the ability to work on more complex implementations, as they have a greater understanding and experience in the field. Additionally, they can provide valuable insight into how different systems interact and how to optimize their performance. Furthermore, those who possess this type of certification are seen as more reliable professionals due to their expertise in the field and are often given preferential treatment when it comes to job opportunities. Finally, having an implementation specialist certification can open up new career paths and provide individuals with access to higher-level positions within organizations.

Pro Tip: Before enrolling in an implementation specialist certification program, research the institution and the curriculum to ensure that the program offers a comprehensive understanding of the software and technologies you'll be working with. Additionally, look for programs that offer hands-on experience and job placement assistance to ensure that you are fully prepared for success in your new role.

Related: What does an Implementation Specialist do?

Top 11 Implementation Specialist Certifications

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

1. Certified Implementation Specialist (CIS)

A Certified Implementation Specialist (CIS) is a professional who has been certified to install, configure, and maintain software applications. They are responsible for ensuring that the software meets the customer’s requirements and is installed correctly.

The certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. It involves studying for the exam, attending training classes, and taking the exam itself. The cost of obtaining a CIS certification varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $1,000 to $3,000.

In order to become a CIS, you must first meet certain prerequisites such as having experience with installing and configuring software applications or having an IT-related degree. After meeting these prerequisites, you will need to take an exam administered by a certifying body such as CompTIA or Microsoft. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CIS certification.

The benefits of becoming a CIS include increased job opportunities in IT-related fields as well as higher salaries due to the specialized knowledge gained through certification. Additionally, having a CIS certification can help demonstrate your expertise in software installation and configuration which can be beneficial when applying for jobs or promotions within your current company.

2. Certified Professional Implementer (CPI)

Certified Professional Implementer (CPI) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Certified Professional Implementers (IACP). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of competency in the implementation of organizational change initiatives. The CPI certification demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skill in implementing successful organizational change projects.

The CPI certification requires that applicants pass an exam administered by IACP. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as project management, change management, and organizational development. It typically takes about four hours to complete the exam.

In order to become certified, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least three years of experience in the field of organizational change and/or project management. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in implementing successful organizational change initiatives.

The cost for the CPI certification varies depending on the applicant’s country of residence. In most cases, it costs between $500 and $1,000 USD to become certified.

3. Certified Implementation Manager (CIM)

Certified Implementation Manager (CIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The CIM certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated their ability to successfully manage and implement projects.

The CIM certification is a two-part process that consists of an online assessment and an in-person interview. The online assessment tests your knowledge of project management principles, processes, tools, and techniques. The in-person interview evaluates your experience in managing projects and implementing solutions.

To get the CIM certification, you must first pass the online assessment with a score of at least 70%. Once you have passed the assessment, you will be eligible to take part in the in-person interview. After completing both parts of the process, you will receive your CIM certificate from PMI.

The cost of obtaining the CIM certification varies depending on which country you are located in. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 to $1,000 USD for the entire process. It typically takes about 6 weeks from start to finish to obtain the CIM certification.

4. Certified Enterprise Solutions Implementer (CESI)

Certified Enterprise Solutions Implementer (CESI) is a certification program offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully implement enterprise solutions in organizations. The certification focuses on core concepts such as business process modeling, project management, system analysis and design, data management, and software development.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the certification program. To obtain the CESI certification, individuals must have at least three years of professional experience in enterprise solution implementation and pass an exam administered by IIBA.

The cost of the CESI certification program varies depending on which option you choose. The self-paced online course costs $1,495 USD while attending a live training session costs $2,995 USD.

5. Certified Software Implementation Specialist (CSIS)

Certified Software Implementation Specialist (CSIS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the implementation and deployment of software solutions. This certification is offered by the International Association of Software Architects (IASA).

The CSIS certification requires completion of a three-day course, which covers topics such as software architecture, project management, system integration, and software development life cycle. The course also includes hands-on activities to help participants gain practical experience. Upon successful completion of the course, participants are eligible to take the CSIS exam.

The cost for the CSIS certification program is $1,000 USD. This fee covers all materials needed for the course and the exam. It does not include travel or lodging expenses.

In order to become certified as a CSIS, applicants must pass an online exam that consists of multiple choice questions and essay questions related to software implementation and deployment. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center in North America or Europe. The exam typically takes two hours to complete and costs $250 USD per attempt.

Once applicants have successfully passed the CSIS exam, they will receive their certificate from IASA within four weeks of completing the test. Certified Software Implementation Specialists must renew their certification every three years by taking additional courses or attending conferences related to software implementation and deployment.

6. Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations, Enterprise Edition Implementation Specialist Certification

Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations, Enterprise Edition Implementation Specialist Certification is a certification program that validates the skills of professionals who are involved in the implementation of Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations, Enterprise Edition. This certification is designed to help organizations ensure that their implementation specialists have the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully implement and maintain Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations, Enterprise Edition.

The certification requires passing two exams: MB-320T00: Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations, Enterprise Edition Core (1 exam) and MB-330T00: Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations, Enterprise Edition Trade & Logistics (1 exam). The duration of each exam is 2 hours.

To get this certification, you must first register with Pearson VUE which is an online testing service provider. After registering with Pearson VUE, you can book your exams online. You will need to pay an exam fee for each exam before taking it. The cost of each exam is $165 USD.

Once you have passed both exams, you will be awarded the Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations, Enterprise Edition Implementation Specialist Certification. It usually takes around 4-6 weeks to receive your certificate once you have passed both exams.

7. Oracle E-Business Suite R12 Financials Implementation Specialist Certification

Oracle E-Business Suite R12 Financials Implementation Specialist Certification is a certification program designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in the implementation and deployment of Oracle E-Business Suite Release 12 Financials. This certification validates that professionals have a comprehensive understanding of the features, functionality, and architecture of Oracle E-Business Suite Release 12 Financials.

To obtain the Oracle E-Business Suite R12 Financials Implementation Specialist Certification, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-516: Oracle E-Business Suite R12 General Ledger Essentials and 1Z0-517: Oracle E-Business Suite R12 Payables Essentials. Each exam takes approximately 2 hours to complete and costs $245 USD each. You can register for the exams online or through an approved testing center.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your certification as an Oracle E-Business Suite R12 Financials Implementation Specialist. The certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued, after which time you must retake the exams to maintain your certification status.

8. Salesforce Certified Implementation Specialist

Salesforce Certified Implementation Specialist is a certification program from Salesforce that validates an individual’s expertise in designing and implementing Salesforce solutions. It requires a combination of knowledge, skill, and experience to be successful.

The certification exam typically takes about two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions based on the Salesforce Certification Exam Guide. It covers topics such as setting up users, accounts, contacts, products, services, marketing campaigns, reports and dashboards.

To get certified as a Salesforce Certified Implementation Specialist you need to pass the exam with a minimum score of 70%. You can take the exam online or at an authorized testing center. The cost of the exam is $200 USD.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your certification badge which can be displayed on your website or social media profiles. This shows potential employers that you are knowledgeable in using Salesforce for business solutions.

9. SAP Certified Application Associate - Financials in SAP S/4HANA for SAP ERP Finance Experts

SAP Certified Application Associate - Financials in SAP S/4HANA for SAP ERP Finance Experts is a certification program that validates an individual’s expertise in the area of financial accounting and reporting. This certification demonstrates an understanding of the fundamental aspects of the finance module within SAP S/4HANA, including financial statements, closing operations, and budgeting.

The duration to obtain this certification varies depending on the individual’s experience and knowledge. Generally, it takes about 40 hours to study and prepare for the exam.

To get this certification, you need to pass two exams: C_TS4FI_1709 (Financial Accounting in SAP S/4HANA) and C_TS4CO_1709 (Controlling in SAP S/4HANA). The exams are administered by Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers.

The cost for each exam is $500 USD. Therefore, the total cost for obtaining this certification is $1000 USD.

10. ServiceNow Certified System Administrator

ServiceNow Certified System Administrator (CSA) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of ServiceNow professionals. The CSA certification is designed to demonstrate that an individual has the necessary skills to be a successful ServiceNow administrator.

The CSA exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To become certified, applicants must pass the CSA exam with a score of 70% or higher.

To get the CSA certification, applicants must first register for the exam through the ServiceNow website. Applicants will then receive an email containing instructions on how to access their online test portal and schedule their exam date.

The cost for the CSA exam is $200 USD per attempt. Candidates may take the exam up to three times within 12 months from their initial registration date before having to re-register for another 12 month period.

11. Zendesk Certified Professional Consultant

Zendesk Certified Professional Consultant is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the implementation and management of Zendesk products. This certification is awarded to those who have completed a series of courses and exams that demonstrate their knowledge and ability to successfully deploy, configure, and manage Zendesk solutions.

The certification process typically takes two weeks to complete. The first step is to register for the online training program, which consists of four courses. These courses cover topics such as product overviews, best practices for deployment, configuration, and administration. After completing the courses, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge of the material covered in the coursework. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certification from Zendesk.

The cost of becoming a Zendesk Certified Professional Consultant varies depending on the package you choose. The basic package costs $299 USD per person and includes access to all four courses plus one attempt at passing the exam. Additional attempts at passing the exam are available for an additional fee.

Overall, becoming a Zendesk Certified Professional Consultant is an excellent way to demonstrate your expertise in deploying and managing Zendesk products. It is also a great way to differentiate yourself from other professionals in this field and potentially increase your earning potential.

Do You Really Need a Implementation Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this question will depend on a variety of factors, including your career goals and the requirements of your job. If you are looking to move into an implementation specialist role, then it is likely that having a certificate in the field would be beneficial. This kind of certification can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this type of role, as well as demonstrate to employers that you have taken the time to invest in your professional development.

For those already working as an implementation specialist, a certificate may also be useful for staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices. It could also give you an edge when applying for promotions or higher positions within the organization.

Ultimately, it is important to weigh the benefits of obtaining a certificate against the cost and effort associated with doing so. If it seems like it would be worth it for your career goals, then by all means go ahead and pursue one!

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FAQs About Implementation Specialist Certifications

1. What is an Implementation Specialist Certification?

Answer: An Implementation Specialist Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in the deployment, maintenance, and operation of business systems. The certification validates the knowledge, skills and abilities of individuals who are responsible for implementing business systems within an organization.

2. How do I become an Implementation Specialist?

Answer: To become an Implementation Specialist, you must have a combination of education and experience in the field. A Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is usually required. You may also need to have experience with specific software applications or platforms such as CRM or ERP systems. Additionally, many employers prefer candidates who have obtained certifications related to their job duties.

3. What are the benefits of becoming an Implementation Specialist?

Answer: Becoming an Implementation Specialist provides numerous benefits including increased job security, higher pay, and greater career advancement opportunities. As businesses increasingly rely on technology to improve efficiency and productivity, certified professionals are in high demand as they possess the technical skills necessary to successfully deploy new systems and ensure that they operate properly.

4. How long does it take to complete an Implementation Specialist Certification program?

Answer: The duration of each program will vary depending on its scope and content but most programs can be completed within 6-12 months if taken full-time or 12-24 months if taken part-time. It may take longer for some students due to other commitments such as work or family obligations so it is important to plan accordingly when enrolling in a program.

5. Are there any prerequisites for taking an Implementation Specialist Certification exam?

Answer: Yes, most certification exams require applicants to meet certain eligibility criteria before they can sit for the exam such as having at least two years of relevant work experience or completing a recognized training course related to the subject matter covered by the exam. It is important to check with your chosen certification body prior to registering for any exams as requirements may vary from one provider to another.