Modern credentialing isn’t just about secure test delivery. It’s about creating a candidate experience that reflects the professionalism and care behind the certification itself. As expectations rise and technology evolves, modernizing credentialing exams has become a strategic priority for organizations committed to delivering a better candidate experience. And we’ve seen firsthand how energizing it can be when testing evolves in a way that supports not just organizations, but the people they serve.
Testing expectations have shifted dramatically in recent years. Candidates want flexibility, access, and confidence in the process. Organizations want systems that are scalable, agile, and responsive. But many credentialing programs are still tied to legacy platforms that weren’t built to evolve.
The National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC) faced this very challenge. Their journey offers important insights for any credentialing body rethinking how to modernize their exam program without compromising standards or control. Here are three key lessons from their experience.
Lesson 1: A test vendor isn’t enough – you need a true partner
Test delivery can sometimes feel like a faceless utility, but it doesn’t have to be. For high-stakes credentialing, what truly matters is having a partner who offers meaningful support and collaboration – especially when challenges arise. While many providers can deliver exams, not all are equipped to adapt, respond, and grow with your organization. Without that partnership, the candidate experience can be adversely impacted, and innovation may stall.
By switching to PSI, NCHEC gained more than a vendor, they gained a team committed to long-term success. From implementation to ongoing operations, PSI works closely with NCHEC to tailor a program that reflects their mission and brand, not just their technical requirements.
“We need a vendor that leads us through the process. With PSI, we don’t have to chase down answers – we have a partner guiding the way,” shared Tanya Cole, Exams and Operations Manager at NCHEC.
Takeaway: Choose a testing partner who truly invests in your success, is aligned with your vision, and walks alongside you at every step. Not just one who delivers the bare minimum.
Lesson 2: Candidate experience shouldn’t be an afterthought
Candidates are the front line of your brand. Their testing experience can shape perception far beyond the exam day. Credentialing can already be stressful, so when candidates encounter long wait times, clunky interfaces, or inflexible scheduling, that stress increases. And it reflects on the credibility of the credential itself.
Improving this experience was a top priority for NCHEC. PSI delivered a more intuitive testing platform, including live test monitoring, a simplified registration process, and multiple delivery options. All thoughtfully designed to support candidates’ comfort, confidence, and peace of mind throughout their testing journey.
This not only reduced candidate anxiety but also enhanced the overall credibility and consistency of their Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®) and Master Certified Health Education (MCHES®) exams. Candidates now have a more transparent, professional, and supportive path to certification.
“PSI has been a great fit for us. They listen, they lead, and they help us focus on what matters most: delivering a high-quality certification experience,” adds Melissa Opp, Executive Director at NCHEC.
Takeaway: A better testing experience isn’t just nice to have. It reflects your values, strengthens your brand, and helps your candidates shine.
Lesson 3: Flexibility builds confidence and control
Rigid systems can stifle progress. In a dynamic field, credentialing leaders need more than plug-and-play solutions. They need platforms that can flex and evolve alongside their organization.
NCHEC sought greater visibility and influence over their testing program. Their previous experience offered limited access to program data and flexibility, making it difficult to implement timely improvements.
PSI’s platform gave NCHEC the flexibility to adapt quickly, access real-time insights, and better engage with testing operations. Whether it was implementing scheduling changes, optimizing workflows, or resolving candidate issues, PSI offered the agility and transparency NCHEC had been missing.
The result? A testing program that NCHEC could steer with confidence.
Takeaway: When your testing partner is flexible, your organization gains control, so your program grows confidently into the future.
The difference a true partnership makes
Before partnering with PSI, NCHEC faced challenges ranging from fragmented candidate feedback to limited control over test delivery logistics. Their team was often spending time reacting to issues rather than proactively shaping the testing experience.
After implementation, they had access to real-time performance dashboards, improved support mechanisms, and streamlined scheduling systems. PSI works as an extension of NCHEC’s team, bringing industry best practices and technological support that aligns with their credentialing goals.
The difference isn’t just technical. It’s strategic. NCHEC can now plan ahead, respond faster, and deliver a program that reflects the integrity of its credentials. And it’s meaningful. For the NCHEC team, the shift not only improved operations, but it also made their day-to-day work feel more supported and aligned.
Modernizing credentialing
Modernizing a credentialing program doesn’t mean compromising on rigor or reliability. As NCHEC discovered, the right partner can elevate the candidate experience, streamline operations, and deepen your organization’s impact. Credentialing organizations that focus on modernizing credentialing exams with flexibility and candidate-first design are positioning themselves for long-term success.
In today’s environment, standing still is not an option. Candidates expect more. Regulators and stakeholders expect more. And forward-thinking credentialing bodies are rising to meet that challenge. Not alone, but with the right testing partner by their side. As Melissa Opp summarises, “We’re really looking forward to what’s ahead – from AI-enhanced tools to test security innovations. PSI’s planning for the future gives us confidence that we’re in the right hands.”
At PSI, we believe credentialing organizations deserve more than transactional relationships. You deserve a team that’s just as invested in your mission as you are.
As credentialing evolves alongside healthcare, education, and professional standards, organizations that embrace flexibility and candidate focus will lead the way.
Want to read more about NCHEC’s experience with PSI?