Unlocking opportunities: Creating an IT certification

Are you an IT software provider considering the addition of formal assessment and credentials to an already established training and development program? Or perhaps you are uncertain whether creating an IT certification aligns with your organization’s goals at this time?

A Growing Market

The IT industry is on an upward trajectory, with the software market projected to demonstrate an annual growth rate of 5.72%, resulting in a market volume of US $812.90 billion by 2027¹. Simultaneously, the IT certification market is experiencing significant growth:

• An average of 91% of IT professionals possess at least one certification².
• Professionals hold an average of four certifications in their field.
• CompTIA, the most popular IT certification, saw a remarkable 41% growth between 2021 and 2022³.
• Linux+ certification experienced an impressive 47% growth during the same period.
• The number of certifications awarded by the Linux Foundation increased by a substantial 50% between 2020 and 2021⁴.
• The number of individuals holding an active Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certification grew by 40% between August 2020 and August 2021⁵.

Clearly, the IT certification market is flourishing, presenting a valuable opportunity for software providers to capitalize on this growth. When executed effectively, the creation of a high-quality IT certification can not only mitigate risks in a rapidly evolving landscape but also establish a new revenue stream.

 

Multiple Benefits

Introducing an IT certification offers numerous advantages:

• Quality Control: Enhance quality control by ensuring individuals possessing the necessary skills and knowledge utilize your software.
• Marketing Opportunity: Leverage the certification for software promotion, brand enhancement, and business expansion.
• Exclusivity and Credibility: Attain exclusivity and credibility in a competitive market, setting your software apart.
• Meeting Market Demand: Address the escalating demand for industry-specific credentials, which are often more accessible and pertinent than a university degree.
• Addressing Skills Gap: Play a pivotal role in bridging the skills gap by providing opportunities for upskilling in specific IT areas, including emerging technologies.

This article will guide you through the essential stages of developing an IT certification while providing support throughout the process.

1. Where Are We Now?

The initial step toward creating an IT certification involves evaluating current offerings. If your organization already provides software training, this serves as a strong foundation. However, the absence of training or quality control measures might be limiting progress.

If training is not provided, consider introducing it as a starting point. For organizations offering training, a formal certification can augment training credibility.

2. Identify the Need

Understanding the needs of your prospective market is crucial. Engage with the training team, conduct surveys among trainees, and consult with clients to unearth market gaps that your certification can address. Additionally, analyze competition to determine if overlapping certifications exist and whether this is the right time for your organization to create a certification.

3. Develop Quality Content

Once the decision to proceed with the IT certification is made, focus on efficient content development that balances speed with rigor. Ensure content aligns with the latest software versions and industry best practices. Upholding quality is paramount for the certification’s reputation and the organization.

4. Develop the Test Delivery Strategy

Select the most suitable test delivery method for the program, whether it involves secure remote proctoring, in-person testing at a global network of test centers, or a combination of both. Flexibility and accessibility are key considerations.

5. Test Taker Messaging and Marketing

Effectively communicate the certification’s benefits to attract test takers. Highlight how it can validate their skills, enhance career growth, and boost confidence in their roles. Utilize state-of-the-art testing technology to offer convenience and choice, demonstrating commitment to the test taker experience.

The IT certification market is thriving, offering software providers a unique opportunity for growth. By creating a well-designed IT certification program, the organization can not only enhance the quality and credibility of its software but also open new revenue streams. Trust in the dreams and aspirations of your customers, empowering them through trusted science and technology.

At PSI, we understand that creating a certification is a long-term investment. We offer expertise and support at every stage of the journey. Building trust with your customers and users is key, and we’re here to help you achieve that.

In the ever-evolving IT landscape, dreams deserve PSI – a partner dedicated to delivering seamless and fair test experiences, safeguarding test integrity, and supporting the certification journey.

Download our new guide Developing an IT certification to learn more.

Footnotes 

1. Statista, 2023. 

2. Skillsoft, IT Skills & Salary Report, 2022. 

3. Op. Cit. 

4. The Linux Foundation: Certifications, The Linux Foundations, 2021. 

5. O’Reilly, Technology Trends for 2023.