Why You Need to Get the CBAP Certification

Thinking of getting a CBAP certification? The role of the Business Analyst is ever-changing, and if you’re a Business Analyst, getting this certification will benefit you and propel your career trajectory.

In today’s world where things are moving at a fast pace, communication is across multiple channels, and teams work at global locations, it’s becoming even more vital to ensure projects are delivered successfully.

The CBAP certification is usually done to ensure consistent terminology and standardization across organizations, and to ensure proper assessment of the skills and knowledge of Business Analysts or BAs. 

The CBAP certification, established in 2006, is presented by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) to screen, test, as well as certify BAs that are qualified and knowledgeable. 

Established as a non-profit organization to safeguard the growth and professionalism of business analysis, the IIBA’s mandate is to document and ensure these standards are maintained.

IIBA and Certification

Founded in 2003, the IIBA’s sole purpose is to create awareness and recognition on the significance of business analysis. This includes building the image of the IIBA to be identified as the premier organization for BA professionals, much like the ACCA is for accountants.

The association also aims to identify BA competencies and skills, as well as certify practitioners.

Among the primary dossiers of the IIBA is the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge, also known as BABOK or just BOK. The BABOK acts as a guide on commonly accepted practices and knowledge within the BA profession. The IIBA also issues the CBAP certification, which is the Certified Business Analysis Professional.

The process of CBAP certification was a result of a BA task analysis study conducted in 2006. This study concluded with the forming of a team of experts who created the exam questions to test the knowledge and application of business analysis. The application and assessment process for a CBAP is rigorous, but the certification is well worth it.

As the requirements are strict and the application process rigorous, it’s a common question to ask oneself if the certification is worth it.

The short answer is YES, it is. Here are ten benefits of getting your CBAP:

#1 Employee recognition and development is improved.

The primary goal of any employee recognition in an organization is to strengthen specific behaviors and practices, which results in better productivity, performance, and business results. Getting a CBAP is a monumental feat, and to be held in high esteem by peers in the industry is one of the biggest motivators for a certified BA as it shows them that their expertise is acknowledged.

#2 The CBAP’s Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct is something included in the CBAP, which BAs pledge and sign to. It articulates best practices in relation to all the research activities and professional work that go into preparing for the CBAPs, as well as practicing as a BA in the industry. This Code of Conduct increases the professionalism associated with the analyst’s circle.

#3 Individuals with CBAPs are identified as highly skilled with an advanced level of knowledge.

The CBAP is known as a requisite in the Business Analysis industry. Getting certified means you have the knowledge, expertise, and qualifications to conduct your business and to follow established standards set by the BA industry. Analysts with this certification make them a valuable asset for any organization, as well as for any critical projects.

#4 CBAPs produce reliable, quality results.

Since its creation in 2006, the IIBA has governed and maintained a strict level of quality and conduct of the process, assessment, exams, and knowledge of CBAP. A certified BA is a qualified BA, one with increased efficiency and consistency.

#5 The potential of hiring a CBAP-certified BA is higher.

BAs who are looking out for better career prospects have a higher chance of getting hired in their desired positions, as employers view them as qualified and reliable candidates. The CBAP certification indirectly gives employers this assurance as employers face fewer risks in hiring and promoting analysts with CBAP credentials.

#6 CBAP certification demonstrates dedication and commitment.

Because the application and assessment process is rigorous, candidates who complete the program and pass the certification are seen as dedicated and committed to the business analysis profession.

#7 CBAP-certified individuals have a bigger voice.

Getting certified also means you’re qualified to do what you’re good at. This gives you a bigger voice within the BA community to enhance the profession and continue to uphold its values.

#8 CBAP sets an individual apart.

You may be up against plenty of applicants for a certain job, and one way to set yourself apart is to get a CBAP certification, as it will help propel your career and expedite your professional advancement. 

#9 Better demonstration of skill sets
The rigorous testing and assessment of the CBAP certification teach candidates the technical know-how, rules, and code of conduct of business analysis. Candidates must demonstrate their level of knowledge and skills. Through testing, they learn better delivery of their skill sets to be an effective Business Analyst.

#10 Advanced career potential

Getting certified enables you to jumpstart your Business Analyst career. This means you don’t necessarily need to go through all the levels of your career progression to prove yourself. Being certified helps you in skipping some of these levels and getting to the senior management level, as you’ve proven yourself to be qualified and possess the required skill sets to be where you need to be. This also means an opportunity to earn a better income.

There you have it – ten benefits of obtaining a CBAP certification. If you’re thinking of getting into the process of CBAP, then you need all the help you can get in terms of training, tips, advice, and best practices. Starting on a preparation program to help you is one of the best ways to get started on your road toward certification. Adaptive US is one such organization you can reach out to that provides training, mentoring sessions, and tools to help you prepare, train, and get ready for CBAP

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