Top 10 Technical Service Manager Certifications

Certifications for a technical service manager are important for many reasons. First, certifications provide potential employers with assurance that the candidate has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job effectively. This can give a competitive edge in the job market, as employers may be more likely to hire someone who is certified in their field. Additionally, certifications can help technical service managers stay current with industry trends and best practices. Finally, certifications can demonstrate a commitment to professional development, which can impress potential employers and increase the chances of getting hired.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Technical Service Managers, and explains how they can contribute to a technical service manager's career growth.

What are Technical Service Manager Certifications?

Technical Service Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and proficiency in the field of technical service management. This certification is designed to give employers confidence that the candidate has the necessary skills and qualifications to lead a team of technical service professionals. Technical Service Managers are responsible for managing customer service, technical support, and other related activities within an organization.

Certification helps demonstrate an individual's commitment to staying current with industry trends and best practices. It also confirms their ability to manage teams of technical staff, analyze customer support data, develop customer service strategies, and ensure quality standards are met. Additionally, it shows potential employers their dedication to continued learning and career advancement. By earning this credential, individuals can prove they have the knowledge required to succeed in a technical service manager role.

Pro Tip: Make sure to stay up to date on the latest technical service manager certification requirements. Keeping current with the industry standards will help you stand out as a leader in your field and ensure that you have the necessary credentials to provide quality service.

Related: What does a Technical Service Manager do?

Top 10 Technical Service Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Technical Service Managers today.

1. ITIL Service Manager Certification

ITIL Service Manager Certification is a globally recognized qualification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to manage IT services and processes. It is awarded by the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) and is based on the ITIL best practices framework.

The certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in service management, although it is recommended that candidates have at least five years of experience in order to fully understand the concepts. The certification consists of two exams: Foundation and Practitioner. The Foundation exam covers basic concepts, terminology, and principles of service management; while the Practitioner exam focuses on more advanced topics such as service design, implementation, and improvement.

To get certified, you must first pass both exams. The Foundation exam can be taken online or at a testing center; however, the Practitioner exam must be taken at an accredited testing center. Both exams cost approximately $200 USD each.

Once both exams are passed, you will receive your certificate from the ITIL Service Management Institute (ISM). This certificate is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional courses or passing additional exams.

2. Certified Service Manager (CSM)

Certified Service Manager (CSM) is a professional certification program developed by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in service management. The CSM program focuses on the core competencies of service management, including customer service, operations management, quality assurance, project management, and financial management.

The CSM program consists of four courses: Service Management Fundamentals, Customer Service Strategies, Operations Management Strategies, and Quality Assurance Strategies. Each course requires approximately 40 hours of study time and can be completed online or in-person at an IFMA-approved training center. Upon successful completion of all four courses, candidates must pass an exam to become certified.

The cost for the CSM program varies depending on whether you take the courses online or in-person. Online courses typically cost around $1,000 while in-person courses may cost up to $3,000.

In order to become certified as a CSM candidate must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least three years of experience in service management or related fields. Candidates must also submit proof of their education and work experience before they can register for the exam. Once all requirements are met, it typically takes about two weeks for IFMA to process your application and send you an authorization letter with instructions on how to schedule your exam.

3. Certified Professional Services Manager (CPSM)

Certified Professional Services Manager (CPSM) is a certification program offered by the Institute for Professional Services Management (IPSM). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of professional services managers.

The CPSM certification program consists of three parts: an online assessment, a two-day workshop, and a final exam. The online assessment tests candidates’ knowledge of professional services management principles, practices, and processes. The two-day workshop covers topics such as project management, client relationship management, financial management, and risk management. The final exam tests candidates’ understanding of the material covered in the workshop.

The CPSM certification process takes approximately four months to complete. Candidates must pass the online assessment before they can attend the two-day workshop. After attending the workshop, candidates have 90 days to take and pass the final exam.

The cost of obtaining a CPSM certification varies depending on where you live and how you choose to pursue it. In most cases, it will cost between $2,000-$3,500 USD for all three parts of the program (online assessment, workshop fees, and exam fees).

4. Certified Technical Service Manager (CTSM)

Certified Technical Service Manager (CTSM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Service Management Professionals (ASMP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in managing service operations. The CTSM designation is awarded to those who demonstrate expertise in the areas of service management, customer service, and operational excellence.

The CTSM program consists of three levels: Certified Technical Service Manager (CTSM), Advanced Technical Service Manager (ATSM), and Master Technical Service Manager (MTSM). To obtain the CTSM certification, an individual must pass a written exam that covers topics such as service management principles, customer service strategies, project management techniques, and operational excellence practices. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $395 USD.

To become an ATSM or MTSM, applicants must already possess the CTSM certification and have at least two years of experience in a related field. They must also pass additional exams that cover more advanced topics such as quality assurance processes, financial analysis methods, leadership development strategies, and organizational change management techniques. The ATSM exam takes approximately six hours to complete and costs $495 USD while the MTSM exam takes eight hours to complete and costs $595 USD.

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing, and managing complex IT infrastructures. The MCSE certification validates the skills necessary to build innovative solutions across multiple technologies, both on-premises and cloud-based.

It typically takes around 6 months to get an MCSE certification. To get certified, you must first pass the required exams for the specific technology track you are pursuing. You can find a list of available exams here: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/learning/exam-list.aspx?sort=examnumber&dir=asc&lang=en-us#pageSize=50&pageIndex=0&sort=examnumber&dir=asc .

The cost of each exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in and your method of payment. Generally, it costs between $100 and $200 USD per exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for an exam or taking it at a testing center.

6. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ Certification is an industry-leading IT certification program that validates the skills of IT professionals. It is designed to ensure that certified individuals have the knowledge and skills necessary to install, configure, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair computer systems. It is also recognized by many employers as a measure of an individual's technical expertise.

The CompTIA A+ Certification consists of two exams: 220-901 and 220-902. The 220-901 exam covers PC hardware and peripherals, mobile device hardware, networking and security fundamentals. The 220-902 exam covers operating systems, software troubleshooting, security, operational procedures and more.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ Certification exams. However, this may vary depending on your experience level and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exams.

To get CompTIA A+ Certified you will need to pass both the 220-901 and 220-902 exams with a score of at least 750 out of 900 points each. You can register for the exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

The cost of taking the CompTIA A+ Certification exams varies depending on where you take them but generally ranges from $200-$300 per exam.

7. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ certification is an internationally recognized credential that validates a professional’s ability to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks. It is designed for IT professionals who have at least nine months of networking experience and are looking to increase their knowledge in the field.

The CompTIA Network+ exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. To pass the exam, you must achieve a score of 720 or higher on a scale from 100-900.

To get CompTIA Network+ certified, you must first register for the exam with CompTIA and pay the fee. The cost of the exam varies depending on your country or region; however, it typically costs around $300 USD. After registering for the exam, you can then schedule it at a local testing center or take it online through Pearson VUE.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your CompTIA Network+ certification which is valid for three years from the date of passing. You can then renew your certification by taking another version of the exam or by completing Continuing Education (CE) activities such as attending webinars or workshops related to networking topics.

8. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to validate the professional project management experience and knowledge of individuals who manage projects. PMP Certification demonstrates to employers, clients, and colleagues that an individual has the experience, education, and competency to lead and direct projects.

The PMP Certification process consists of four steps:

1. Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible for the PMP Certification, an individual must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience with 7500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education; or a four-year degree (bachelor’s degree or global equivalent) with at least three years of project management experience with 4500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

2. Exam Preparation: Once eligibility requirements are met, individuals must prepare for the PMP exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as initiating, planning, executing, monitoring/controlling, closing processes; tools/techniques; knowledge areas; and professional responsibility.

3. Application Process: After passing the exam, applicants must submit an application to PMI for review. This includes providing evidence of their educational background and work experience as well as references from employers or clients who can attest to their project management skills.

4. Maintaining Certification: After being certified as a PMP, individuals must maintain their certification by earning 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years in order to remain certified by PMI. PDUs can be earned through attending conferences or workshops related to project management or taking online courses related to project management topics.

The entire process typically takes between 6 months to 1 year depending on how quickly an individual can complete all the requirements for eligibility and pass the exam. The cost for becoming certified varies depending on whether you are already a member of PMI or not but typically ranges from $400-$700 USD including membership fees if applicable.

9. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a mastery of the Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help individuals understand and apply the principles of Six Sigma in their workplace. This certification is suitable for professionals who want to improve their understanding of the Six Sigma process and become more effective in their roles.

The certification requires individuals to have experience working with Six Sigma or Lean processes, but does not require any formal training or education. Individuals must pass an exam to earn the certification. The exam typically takes about four hours and covers topics such as quality management, process improvement, data analysis, project management, and problem solving.

The cost of the certification varies depending on location and provider. Generally, it costs between $500-$2,000 USD for the exam and materials needed to complete it.

In order to get certified, individuals must first register for an exam with a registered provider such as ASQ or IASSC. After registering, they will need to study for the exam using materials provided by the provider or other sources such as books or online courses. Once they are ready to take the exam, they can schedule a time with the provider and take it at an approved testing center.

Once they pass the exam, they will receive their certificate from their chosen provider which will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

10. ISO/IEC 20000 Foundation Certificate

ISO/IEC 20000 Foundation Certificate is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a person's knowledge of the best practices and processes for managing IT services. It is based on the ISO/IEC 20000 standard, which is the international standard for IT service management. The certification provides a comprehensive understanding of the requirements of ISO/IEC 20000 and how to apply them in practice.

In order to obtain the ISO/IEC 20000 Foundation Certificate, individuals must first complete a training course. This course typically takes two days and covers topics such as service strategy, design and transition, service operation, continual improvement, and more. After completing the training course, individuals must then pass an exam in order to receive their certificate.

The cost of obtaining the ISO/IEC 20000 Foundation Certificate varies depending on where you take your training course. Generally speaking, courses are offered by accredited providers at prices ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or travel expenses if you need to take it at a physical location.

Do You Really Need a Technical Service Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Technical Service Manager Certificate depends on the specific requirements of your job. In some cases, employers may require certification for certain positions, such as for technical service manager roles. However, in many other cases, certification is optional and can be beneficial for career growth and advancement.

If you are looking to become a technical service manager, it is important to consider the benefits that certification can bring. A certificate can demonstrate your knowledge and experience in this area and help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs. It also shows potential employers that you have taken the initiative to further your professional development and stay up-to-date with industry trends. Certification can open doors to higher level positions or increased salary opportunities as well.

On the other hand, if you already have experience working in technical service management or if you feel confident in your ability to do the job without a certificate, then there might not be much benefit in obtaining one. Ultimately it comes down to whether or not certification will give you an edge over other applicants or provide any other tangible benefits that would make it worth investing the time and money into acquiring one.

Related: Technical Service Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Technical Service Manager Certifications

1. What is a Technical Service Manager Certification?

Answer: A Technical Service Manager Certification is a professional certification that proves an individual has the knowledge and skills to manage technical service operations. It demonstrates expertise in project management, customer service, problem-solving, and leadership.

2. How do I become certified as a Technical Service Manager?

Answer: To become certified as a Technical Service Manager, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge and skills in the areas of project management, customer service, problem-solving, and leadership.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Technical Service Manager?

Answer: Benefits of becoming certified as a Technical Service Manager include increased job opportunities with higher salaries, improved credibility in the workplace, better ability to solve complex problems quickly and efficiently, and greater recognition from peers and employers.

4. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Technical Service Manager Certification?

Answer: Generally speaking, there are no prerequisites for obtaining a Technical Service Manager Certification; however some certifying organizations may have specific requirements such as prior work experience or education level that must be met before taking the exam.

5. How long does it take to get certified as a Technical Service Manager?

Answer: The amount of time required to obtain certification varies depending on your current level of experience and knowledge in the field; however most people can expect to complete their certification within 3-6 months if they study regularly and consistently practice their skills.