(Click here to download PDF version of the certfication brochure)

Software process improvement has become a very essential activity for software organizations in order to meet the challenge of complex software systems and the increasing demand for more reliable systems. Given the broad range of approaches, methods and tools for SPI, organizations are struggling qualifying individuals who can participate in the overwhelming task of improving processes around the organization. Few certification programs exist today to certify individuals in very specialized areas of software process improvement. Examples are Six Sigma, CMM/CMMI Lead Assessor certifications, and the SEI's SEPM Certificate Programs.

To that end, the IISP Advisory Board, a group of industry experts in software process improvement, has recognized the need for a comprehensive education-based certification program that is based on a well-rounded Body of Knowledge. The Educational program supporting the International Software Process Improvement Certification (ISPIC™) credentials will provide those who participate in SPI efforts with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their job duties with the highest levels of professionalism and competency. This certification will also help hiring managers qualify individuals who are supposed to participate in any SPI effort.

Course of Study: to be awarded the ISPIC credentials, a candidate must complete a total ten days of training. The course of study must contain at least one day of training in each of the seven Core Knowledge Areas (CKAs) of the SPI Body of Knowledge (SPIBOK) and days of training in any three Application Knowledge Areas (AKAs) of the SPIBOK as fits within the candidate's job responsibilities and interest.

The Formal Education Requirement must be completed in no more than 3 years. Credit for any training will expire 3 years after its completion.

ISPIC Training: Candidates may select courses offered by IISP either in a classroom setting, online courses, or any of the one-day tutorials offered in conjunction with ICSPI conferences. Candidates are required to complete a written exam for each course and pass with a level of performance no less than 80%.

Transfer Credit: A ISPIC candidate may transfer work performed outside the ISPIC program for credit towards the ISPIC certification under any of the following conditions:

1. A ISPIC candidate who has been awarded the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, Certified Software Test Professional (CTM) certification, or the ASQ Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE) certification may receive a credit for TWO days towards the CKAs of the SPIBOK.
2. A ISPIC candidate may receive credit for courses conducted by providers other than IISP for a maximum of TWO days towards the AKAs of the SPIBOK. Candidates must submit evidence of successful completion from a recognized training institution along with detailed course material for evaluation and a certificate of completion.

In order for the ISPIC to be granted, a candidate must have a total of at least three years working in software projects, including at least one year in an SPI related role. This requirement must be completed by the time ISPIC is granted. This requirement shall be met by means of a letter of support describing the candidate's specific role and responsibilities over a period of three years or more. The letter must be authored and signed by:

1. The candidate's current or former supervisor/manager
2. The candidate's client or customer (if self-employed)

Multiple sources may be submitted to cover the three year period. Any variation from this requirement must be reviewed and approved by the IISP Chairperson.

A person who achieves the ISPIC credentials will need to renew the certification each three years. The requirements and criteria for renewing the certification will be discussed by the Advisory Board at a later date.