Top 11 Production Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for a production analyst in the job market because they provide employers with evidence that a potential employee has the skills and knowledge to do the job. Certifications demonstrate that an individual is competent in their field, and that they have taken the time to learn and gain experience in their chosen field. Furthermore, certifications can open up career opportunities that may not have been available without them. Employers can also use certifications as a way to differentiate between candidates when making hiring decisions. Ultimately, certifications provide employers with assurance that an individual is capable of handling the responsibilities of a production analyst role.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Production Analysts and explains how they can enhance a production analyst's career.

What are Production Analyst Certifications?

Production analyst certification is a type of professional credential that validates the knowledge and skills of individuals in the areas of production analysis and management. It is designed to help those who hold it demonstrate their expertise in the field and stand out from other applicants when seeking employment or promotional opportunities. This certification can be beneficial for those looking to move up in their current production roles, as well as for those entering into the field for the first time.

The certification covers topics such as production planning, inventory control, cost accounting, project management, quality assurance, process improvement, and data analysis. Those who earn this certification have demonstrated their ability to analyze production systems, identify areas of improvement and develop solutions that enhance productivity and efficiency. They also possess the knowledge necessary to monitor progress, track costs, measure performance against goals and create reports that accurately reflect production results.

By earning a production analyst certification, individuals are able to set themselves apart from other job candidates with similar qualifications. Companies value professionals who possess specialized skills that can help them improve their processes; having a certification can be just what they need to make an impression during interviews or when negotiating salary packages. Additionally, having this credential may also qualify professionals for higher-level positions within organizations that require additional education or experience in order to qualify.

Pro Tip: Before enrolling in a production analyst certification program, research the curriculum and ensure it covers the specific topics you need to become an effective production analyst. Additionally, make sure that the program includes hands-on experience with actual data and software used in the field so that you can develop your skills and gain a competitive edge.

Related: What does a Production Analyst do?

Top 11 Production Analyst Certifications

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

1. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have mastered the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage production and inventory activities within an organization. CPIM certification requires that individuals demonstrate mastery of five core competencies: demand management, procurement and supplier planning, material requirements planning, capacity requirements planning, and master scheduling.

To become certified in CPIM, individuals must complete two exams: Part 1 and Part 2. The Part 1 exam tests candidates’ understanding of the fundamentals of production and inventory management. The Part 2 exam focuses on more advanced topics such as supply chain management, enterprise resource planning systems, quality control, performance measurement, and improvement techniques.

The cost of the CPIM certification program varies depending on whether you choose to take the exams online or in-person. Online exams cost $395 per part while in-person exams cost $495 per part. Additionally, APICS offers study materials such as textbooks, practice questions, and webinars to help prepare for the exams.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on how quickly you can study for the exams. Most people take between 3-6 months to complete both parts of the exam.

2. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is an internationally recognized certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and manage a global supply chain. The CSCP certification focuses on end-to-end supply chain management, from strategic design through operational execution.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete the CSCP certification program, depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying. To get certified, you must first pass a comprehensive three-hour exam that covers topics such as supply chain strategy, global logistics, inventory management, customer service, and more. You also need to have at least three years of relevant work experience in order to qualify for the exam.

The cost of the CSCP certification varies depending on your location and whether or not you are an APICS member. Generally speaking, non-members can expect to pay around $695 USD for the exam fee and study materials. APICS members receive discounted rates for both the exam fee and study materials.

3. Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB) is a certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help individuals understand and apply the principles of Lean Six Sigma to improve processes, reduce waste and increase efficiency.

The CLSSBB certification requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of professional experience in process improvement or quality management, as well as knowledge and understanding of the Lean Six Sigma methodology. Candidates must also pass an exam administered by an accredited third-party organization. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as project management, data analysis, process improvement tools and techniques, problem solving and team dynamics.

The length of time it takes to get the CLSSBB certification depends on how much prior experience you have with the Lean Six Sigma methodology. If you already have some knowledge and experience, it may take only a few months to complete all the requirements for the certification. However, if you are starting from scratch, it could take up to a year or more.

To get your CLSSBB certification, you will need to complete an accredited training program that covers all aspects of Lean Six Sigma. You will also need to pass an exam administered by an accredited third-party organization. Once you have completed both requirements successfully, you can apply for your CLSSBB certification through the certifying body.

The cost of getting your CLSSBB certification varies depending on where you take your training course and which certifying body you choose. Generally speaking, courses range from $2,000-$5,000 USD while exams range from $500-$1,000 USD.

4. Certified Professional in Production and Inventory Management (CPPIM)

Certified Professional in Production and Inventory Management (CPPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in production and inventory management. The CPPIM certification requires candidates to demonstrate their understanding of the principles, concepts, and techniques related to production and inventory management.

The CPPIM certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and an online portfolio review. The written exam covers topics such as supply chain management, operations planning, inventory control, quality assurance, cost accounting, and more. The online portfolio review assesses the candidate’s ability to apply the concepts they have learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CPPIM certification process depending on how much time you are able to devote to studying for the exams. To get started on your journey towards becoming a Certified Professional in Production and Inventory Management (CPPIM), you will need to register with APICS and pay a fee that varies depending on your membership status. Once registered, you can access study materials that will help you prepare for both parts of the certification process.

The total cost of obtaining the CPPIM certification varies depending on your APICS membership status but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. This includes registration fees for both parts of the exam as well as any additional study materials or courses you may choose to purchase.

5. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence

American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in the areas of quality management and organizational excellence. The certification is designed to help organizations improve their performance by ensuring that their managers are well-versed in the principles and practices of quality management.

The certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in a quality or organizational excellence role, as well as passing an exam. The exam covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer focus, leadership, and measurement and analysis.

To get the certification, you must first complete an application form with ASQ. Once your application is approved, you will be sent an authorization letter with instructions on how to register for the exam. You will also need to pay a fee for the exam. After successfully completing the exam, you will receive your certificate from ASQ.

The cost of the exam varies depending on whether you are taking it online or at an authorized testing center. Online exams typically cost around $300 USD while exams taken at a testing center may cost up to $500 USD. There may also be additional fees for materials or other services related to taking the exam.

Once you have received your certificate from ASQ, it is valid for three years before needing to be renewed by retaking the same examination or completing continuing education courses related to quality management and organizational excellence.

6. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Professional

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate mastery of supply chain management best practices. It is the only end-to-end supply chain certification that encompasses all aspects of the global supply chain, from strategy to implementation.

It takes approximately 12 months to complete the CSCP program, depending on how much time you are able to commit. The program consists of three components: an online course, an exam, and a professional development seminar. The online course covers topics such as inventory management, global supply chain operations, customer relations management, logistics and transportation management, and more. The exam is a three-hour multiple choice test that covers all aspects of the CSCP curriculum. Finally, the professional development seminar provides an in-depth look at real world applications of the concepts learned in the course.

To get certified as a CSCP you must first register for the program through APICS’ website. Once registered you will be provided with access to the online course materials and exam registration information. After completing the online course and passing the exam you will receive your official certification from APICS.

The cost of registering for the CSCP program varies depending on which package you choose when registering; however it generally ranges from $1,400 - $2,000 USD for both members and non-members alike.

7. APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution

APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program that provides recognition for professionals who demonstrate mastery of the essential principles and concepts of logistics, transportation, and distribution. The CLTD program was developed by APICS, an international association for supply chain management professionals.

The CLTD certification requires a comprehensive understanding of the logistics industry and its related processes. It covers topics such as inventory management, warehousing, transportation, distribution network design, global logistics strategies, reverse logistics, and sustainability. It also includes knowledge of current trends in the industry such as e-commerce and 3PLs (third-party logistics providers).

It typically takes three to six months to prepare for the CLTD exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. To take the exam you must have at least two years of experience in the field or have taken an APICS course on the subject matter.

The cost to take the CLTD exam is $695 USD for members of APICS or $895 USD for non-members. This fee includes access to online study materials such as practice exams and flashcards. Additional costs may apply if you choose to purchase additional study materials or attend review courses offered through APICS or other organizations.

8. APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management

APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery of production and inventory management concepts, principles, and techniques. CPIM certification is highly valued by employers because it shows that an individual has a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management principles.

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 must be completed within two years in order to earn the CPIM designation. The courses are available online or through instructor-led classes at local APICS chapters.

In order to receive the CPIM designation, individuals must pass all five exams with a score of 70% or higher. The exams are administered online or at authorized testing centers around the world. The cost for each exam is $175 USD for members and $225 USD for non-members.

To maintain the CPIM designation, individuals must complete 60 professional development points every three years. Professional development points can be earned through activities such as attending conferences or workshops, participating in webinars or seminars, writing articles or books on supply chain topics, teaching courses related to supply chain management, or completing other approved activities.

9. International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) Certification in Business Analysis

The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a professional organization that provides certification for business analysts. The IIBA Certification in Business Analysis is a globally recognized credential that validates the knowledge and experience of business analysts. It demonstrates to employers, clients, and peers that the professional has the skills needed to effectively analyze and solve complex business problems.

The IIBA Certification in Business Analysis takes approximately 6-9 months to complete, depending on the individual’s current level of knowledge and experience. The process includes preparing for the exam, taking the exam, and receiving the certification.

To prepare for the exam, individuals must review the IIBA Body of Knowledge (BoK), attend an approved course or workshop, or gain hands-on experience in business analysis. This will help them become familiar with best practices and processes related to business analysis.

Once they have completed their preparation, individuals can take the online exam at any time from anywhere in the world. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions which must be completed within 4 hours. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals will receive their certification from IIBA.

The cost of obtaining an IIBA Certification in Business Analysis varies depending on how you choose to prepare for it. If you choose to attend an approved course or workshop, then prices typically range from $1,000-$2,500 USD (including exams). If you choose to self-study using resources such as books or online courses then prices range from $400-$800 USD (including exams).

10. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized professional credential for project managers. It is awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in managing projects, leading teams, and delivering successful outcomes.

In order to become PMP certified, individuals must have at least three years of project management experience, with 4,500 hours of leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

The process to receive the PMP certification includes:

1. Applying for the PMP Exam: The first step is to apply for the exam online through the PMI website.

2. Taking the Exam: After submitting your application, you will be given instructions on how to take the exam at an approved testing center. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours.

3. Passing the Exam: If you pass the exam, you will be awarded your PMP certification from PMI.

4. Maintaining Your Certification: To maintain your certification, you must earn 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years and pay an annual renewal fee of $60 USD.

The cost of obtaining a PMP certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PMI; members pay $405 USD for their exam while non-members pay $555 USD.

11. Microsoft Office Specialist: Excel Expert Certification

Microsoft Office Specialist: Excel Expert Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s advanced knowledge and proficiency in Microsoft Excel. The certification requires passing two exams, one for the Microsoft Office Excel 2016 Core exam and one for the Microsoft Office Excel 2016 Expert exam. The core exam covers topics such as formatting worksheets, creating formulas, working with charts, working with tables, and managing data. The expert exam covers more advanced topics such as creating macros, using external data sources, analyzing data with PivotTables, and automating tasks with Visual Basic for Applications (VBA).

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the training necessary to pass both exams. Training can be completed through self-study or instructor-led courses offered by Microsoft or third-party training providers. Once the training is complete, individuals must register for and take both exams at a Pearson VUE testing center. Each exam costs $150 USD. Upon successful completion of both exams, individuals will receive their official Microsoft Office Specialist: Excel Expert Certification.

Do You Really Need a Production Analyst Certificate?

The answer to whether or not you need a Production Analyst Certificate depends on what your goals are. If you plan to pursue a career in production analysis, then it may be beneficial to obtain a certificate. A Production Analyst Certificate can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in this field. It can also demonstrate to employers that you have the qualifications they are looking for when hiring a production analyst.

However, if you simply want to gain a better understanding of production analysis and do not plan to pursue it as a career, then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary. Depending on your level of interest and commitment, there are many other ways to learn about production analysis such as reading books or taking online courses.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Production Analyst Certificate depends on your goals and interests. If you plan on pursuing a career in this field then having a certificate could be beneficial. Otherwise, there are other ways of learning about production analysis that may suit your needs better.

Related: Production Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Production Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a Production Analyst Certification?

A1. A Production Analyst Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the production analysis field. It is designed to help employers identify qualified professionals with the necessary skills to successfully manage production operations.

Q2. What are the eligibility requirements for Production Analyst Certification?

A2. The eligibility requirements vary depending on the certifying body, but typically require a minimum of two years of experience in a related field and successful completion of an accredited program or coursework related to production analysis. In some cases, additional experience may be required for more advanced certifications.

Q3. What topics are covered in Production Analyst Certifications?

A3. Topics covered in Production Analyst Certifications include operational analysis, inventory management, cost optimization, process improvement, data analysis, and project management.

Q4. How long does it take to obtain a Production Analyst Certification?

A4. The amount of time required to complete a Production Analyst Certification depends on the certifying body and the individual's prior knowledge and experience in the field. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the certification process depending on these factors.

Q5. Is there an exam associated with obtaining a Production Analyst Certification?

A5: Yes, most certifying bodies require individuals to pass an exam as part of their certification process in order to demonstrate their understanding and mastery of the topics covered during their training program or coursework.