Top 10 Technical Services Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a technical services manager in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the applicant has taken the time and effort to gain specific professional knowledge and skills. Certifications also provide proof of their competence in certain areas, such as project management, customer service, or information technology. Employers value certifications because they show that the candidate has a commitment to continuing professional development and is up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. Additionally, certifications can help technical services managers stand out from other applicants in a competitive job market.

This article reviews some of the most valuable certifications for Technical Services Managers and explains how they can help to advance a career in this field.

What are Technical Services Manager Certifications?

Technical Services Manager Certification is a program designed to help individuals gain the skills and knowledge needed to become successful Technical Services Managers. This certification provides comprehensive training in the areas of project management, customer service, technical support, and software development. It covers topics such as IT operations, troubleshooting, security, systems architecture, and more. With this certification, individuals will be able to demonstrate their understanding of the various aspects of running a technical services organization and how they can use these skills to improve an organization’s efficiency and effectiveness.

The certification program also focuses on developing leadership skills that are necessary for success in this role. This includes communication techniques, problem-solving strategies, decision-making processes, conflict resolution tactics, and much more. Additionally, students will learn about the different roles within a technical services team and how best to manage them so that everyone works together towards common goals. By completing this certification program successfully, individuals will have the tools they need to be successful Technical Services Managers.

Overall, Technical Services Manager Certification can help professionals become better leaders in their field by giving them the knowledge and experience needed to properly manage a technical services team and ensure its success. With this certification under their belt, individuals will have the confidence they need to take on any challenge that comes their way.

Pro Tip: When considering a technical services manager certification, make sure you research the requirements and qualifications of the certifying body. Certification through an accredited organization will provide the best assurance that the certification is recognized and respected in your industry. Additionally, make sure to review any related continuing education requirements that may be necessary to maintain the certification.

Related: What does a Technical Services Manager do?

Top 10 Technical Services Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Technical Services Manager (CTSM)

Certified Technical Services Manager (CTSM) is a certification program designed for professionals in the technical services field. The CTSM certification is offered by the Association of Technology Professionals (ATP), an international professional association dedicated to advancing technology and business practices.

The CTSM program is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the areas of technical service management, customer service, and problem resolution. It requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills through a comprehensive written exam as well as a practical application project. The certification also requires applicants to have at least 5 years of experience working in the technical services field.

It typically takes between 8-12 months to complete the CTSM program depending on how quickly you can complete the required coursework and exams. To get started, you must first become an ATP member and then register for the CTSM program. Once registered, you will receive access to all the materials needed to prepare for the exam including study guides, practice tests, and online resources.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on your membership status with ATP but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD for non-members or $200-$400 USD for members.

2. Certified Professional Services Manager (CPSM)

Certified Professional Services Manager (CPSM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Professional Services Management (IPSM). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to manage professional services organizations. The CPSM credential is recognized globally as a symbol of excellence in the field of professional services management.

The CPSM program consists of three levels: Foundation, Intermediate, and Advanced. To obtain the CPSM credential, candidates must pass all three levels within five years. Each level requires a minimum number of hours of study and completion of an online exam.

It typically takes six to twelve months to complete all three levels, depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying and taking exams.

To get started with the CPSM program, you will need to register with IPSM and pay the registration fee. After registering, you will receive access to study materials and be able to take practice exams. Once you have successfully completed all three levels, you will be eligible for the CPSM credential.

The cost for the CPSM program varies depending on your location and whether or not you are an IPSM member. In general, it costs approximately $1,500 USD for non-members and $1,200 USD for members. This cost includes registration fees and exam fees for each level.

3. Certified Service Management Professional (CSMP)

Certified Service Management Professional (CSMP) is a certification program offered by the International Association of IT Service Management Professionals (ITSMF). The CSMP certification is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of competency in service management. It is the highest level of service management certification available and requires an extensive knowledge and understanding of service management principles, processes, and best practices.

The CSMP certification consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral interview. The written exam covers topics such as service strategy, service design, service transition, service operation, continual improvement, and organizational change management. The oral interview assesses the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

The entire process typically takes about six months to complete. Candidates must first register for the exam with ITSMF and pay the associated fees before taking the written exam. Once they pass the written exam, they can then schedule their oral interview with an approved interviewer from ITSMF. After successfully completing both parts of the certification process, candidates will be awarded their CSMP designation.

The cost of obtaining a CSMP certification varies depending on where you take it and how long it takes you to complete it. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for registration fees plus any additional costs associated with travel or preparation materials that may be required for the exams or interviews.

4. ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management

The ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management is an internationally-recognized certification that demonstrates a professional's knowledge of the best practices for IT service management. This certification is based on the ITIL framework, which provides guidance on how to use IT services to meet business needs. The certificate is designed to help professionals understand the core concepts of IT service management and how they can be used to improve processes and services within an organization.

It typically takes about two weeks to complete the coursework required for the ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management. The course covers topics such as service strategy, service design, service transition, service operation, continual service improvement, and more.

To get certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by an accredited provider. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. To be eligible for the exam, individuals must have at least two years of experience working in an information technology environment or have completed a minimum of 17 hours of training from an accredited provider.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it and who administers it. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$400 USD for the exam itself.

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Cloud Platform and Infrastructure

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Cloud Platform and Infrastructure is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their skills in deploying, managing, and optimizing cloud infrastructure solutions. It covers the full range of Microsoft cloud technologies, including Windows Server, System Center, Azure, Hyper-V, Storage Spaces Direct, and more.

To get the MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure certification, you need to pass one or more exams that cover topics such as designing an Azure infrastructure; implementing identity management; configuring virtual networks; deploying applications on Azure; creating storage accounts; and monitoring and automating operations. The number of exams required depends on your experience level. If you have no prior experience with cloud technologies, you must pass three exams. If you have some experience with cloud technologies but not enough to qualify for the certification without taking any additional exams, then you must pass two exams.

The cost of the MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure certification varies depending on the number of exams required to obtain it. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $165 USD. So if you need to take three exams in order to get certified, then the total cost will be around $495 USD.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on how much time you can dedicate to studying for the exams. Generally speaking, it should take between three months and one year to complete all of the necessary requirements for this certification program.

6. CompTIA Project+ Certification

CompTIA Project+ is a certification that validates the knowledge and skills of project managers in the IT industry. It is designed to measure an individual's ability to effectively initiate, plan, execute, monitor and close projects on time and within budget.

The CompTIA Project+ exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes up to two hours to complete. To obtain the certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 750 or higher on a scale of 100-900. The cost for the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $329-$399 USD.

To prepare for the CompTIA Project+ exam, you can take online courses or attend instructor-led classes. You can also purchase study guides and practice tests to help you prepare for the exam. Additionally, there are several websites that offer free resources such as practice exams and study materials.

Overall, obtaining CompTIA Project+ certification is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in project management and enhance your career opportunities in the IT industry.

7. PRINCE2 Foundation Certification

PRINCE2 Foundation Certification is a globally recognized certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to manage projects effectively. It is based on the PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) methodology, which is an internationally accepted best practice for project management.

The PRINCE2 Foundation certification consists of a two-hour exam that tests your understanding of the principles and processes of PRINCE2. The exam consists of 75 multiple choice questions, and you must score at least 55% to pass.

To get certified, you must first complete a PRINCE2 Foundation course. This can be done online or in person, depending on your preference. Once you have completed the course, you will be eligible to take the exam. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider and format chosen but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

The exam itself costs around $300 USD, but some providers may offer discounts if you purchase both together. After passing the exam, you will receive your PRINCE2 Foundation certification, which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

8. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is an internationally recognized certification program designed to help individuals and organizations improve their processes and reduce costs. The certification is based on the Six Sigma methodology, which uses data-driven decision making and problem solving to identify and eliminate defects in any process.

The Six Sigma Green Belt Certification typically takes about two months to complete, although this can vary depending on the individual’s experience level and how quickly they are able to learn the material. In order to get certified, individuals must first attend a formal training course or program that covers all of the necessary topics related to Six Sigma. After completing the course, individuals must then pass a written exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking, however, it can range anywhere from $500-$3000 USD. It is important to note that some providers may also require additional fees for additional services such as mentoring or coaching support during the certification process.

Overall, obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification can be beneficial for both individuals and organizations looking to improve their processes and reduce costs by utilizing data-driven decision making techniques.

9. ISO/IEC 20000 Foundation Certificate

ISO/IEC 20000 Foundation Certificate is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s understanding of the principles and processes of IT service management. It is based on the ISO/IEC 20000 standard, which sets out requirements for establishing, implementing, operating, monitoring, reviewing, maintaining and improving an Information Technology Service Management System (ITSMS). The certificate is designed to help organizations demonstrate their commitment to quality IT service management.

The ISO/IEC 20000 Foundation Certificate can be obtained by taking an online course or attending a classroom-based course. The online course typically takes around 8 hours to complete and costs around $400-$500 USD. The classroom-based course usually takes 2 days and costs around $1000 USD. Both courses require passing an exam in order to obtain the certificate.

The certificate is valid for three years after which it must be renewed by taking a refresher course or exam. It is important to note that the ISO/IEC 20000 Foundation Certificate does not guarantee that an organization has implemented a compliant ITSMS; it only shows that individuals have knowledge of the standard and its requirements.

10. APMG International Change Management Foundation

APMG International Change Management Foundation is a certification program designed to provide practitioners with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage change effectively. It is based on the Change Management Body of Knowledge (CMBOK) developed by APMG International, and provides practitioners with an understanding of the principles, processes, tools and techniques for successful change management.

The course takes approximately two days to complete, depending on the number of participants and the instructor’s teaching style. The course covers topics such as change management principles, process models, stakeholder analysis, communication strategies, resistance management, and project planning.

To get certified in APMG International Change Management Foundation you must attend a two-day classroom training course delivered by an accredited trainer. The cost of this training varies depending on the provider and location but typically ranges from $1,500 - $2,000 USD. After completing the training course you will be required to pass an online examination in order to gain your certification. The cost of this exam is usually around $150 USD.

Do You Really Need a Technical Services Manager Certificate?

No, a Technical Services Manager Certificate is not required to become a Technical Services Manager. However, it can be beneficial in terms of increasing your knowledge and skills in the field. It also provides recognition of your expertise and may give you an edge when applying for jobs.

Having a technical services manager certificate can help you demonstrate your commitment to the profession and demonstrate that you possess the necessary skills and qualifications for the job. The certificate will also provide evidence of your experience in managing technical services projects and tasks, as well as providing proof that you have achieved certain educational goals related to the field.

The certificate can also provide networking opportunities with other professionals in the industry, as well as potential employers who may recognize the value of having someone with a technical services manager certification on their team. Additionally, having a certificate may open up career advancement opportunities or allow you to pursue higher-level positions within the organization.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual person to determine if they need a technical services manager certificate in order to succeed in this field. If you do decide to pursue one, make sure that it is from an accredited institution so that employers know that you have met rigorous standards for this type of certification.

Related: Technical Services Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Technical Services Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Technical Services Manager Certification?

A1. A Technical Services Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the management of technical services, such as IT, engineering, and other related fields. It typically includes coursework in project management, customer service, operations management, and other areas relevant to managing technical services.

Q2. What are the requirements for obtaining a Technical Services Manager Certification?

A2. Requirements for obtaining a Technical Services Manager Certification vary depending on the program chosen, however they generally involve completing courses in project management, customer service, operations management and other related areas. Some programs may also require applicants to have prior experience working in the field or pass an exam to demonstrate their knowledge and competency in the subject matter.

Q3. How long does it take to earn a Technical Services Manager Certification?

A3. The amount of time required to obtain a Technical Services Manager Certification depends on the program chosen and whether any prior experience or exams are required for completion. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all of the necessary coursework and requirements for certification.

Q4. Are there any benefits associated with having a Technical Services Manager Certification?

A4. Yes! Having a Technical Services Manager Certification is beneficial because it indicates that you are knowledgeable and competent in managing technical services such as IT projects, customer service operations and more. It also serves as proof of your commitment to professional development in this field and can help boost your career opportunities by opening up new job possibilities or allowing you to negotiate for higher salaries or promotions within your current organization.

Q5. Where can I find more information about obtaining my own Technical Services Manager Certification?

A5: There are several online resources available to help individuals interested in obtaining their own Technical Services Manager Certification including websites like edX that offer courses specifically designed for this purpose as well as various organizations that provide certifications such as CompTIA and ISACA which both offer certifications specific to this field of expertise. Additionally, many universities offer degree programs focused on technical services management which may be helpful in obtaining certification if desired