Which program is for me? Listed below is a comparison of both certifications, including their Focus, Scope and Topics Addressed. At a quick glance, the CPIM is the overall focus on SCM.
and past participants have had such titles as: add titles The CPSM is a niche focus on SM/Procurement and past participants have had such titles as: add titles.
Note: Some participants that fall into both of the categories (CPIM and CPSM related job titles) have pursued both Certifications which in combination, is a powerful statement on your resume or CV.
CPIM: Apics Certified Professional Inventory Management (5 modules 5 exams)
CPSM: ISM Certified Professional in Supply Management (specifically aimed at purchasing)
| CPIM | CPSM | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Overall Supply Chain Management which includes operations, logistics and procurement with a heavy emphasis on manufacturing. | Niche to Supply Management which entails sourcing, procurement and contracting. – It has applicability to all industries including manufacturing, services and governmental agencies. |
| Scope | A deep dive into specific manufacturing, service, and operations topics starting first with the S&OP through the MPS and ultimately addressing Detailed Schedules either at your facility (make) or the supplier’s facility (buy). | Within the Supply Management discipline, covers many topics, including finance, Supplier Relationship Management (SRM), organization global strategy, risk compliance, through Foundation, Effectiveness and Leadership both relative in internal suppliers and customers as well as external suppliers and customers. |
| Topics Addressed | Demand Management & Forecasting, External Sourcing, Inventory Management, Master Scheduling, Materials Requirements Planning, Operations Scheduling and Supply Planning. | Contracting and Negotiation, Cost and Finance, International Sourcing, Social Responsibility, Supplier Relationship Management, Forecasting, Logistics, Materials and Inventory Management, Departmental Assessment, Project Management, Leadership, Risk Management, Strategic Sourcing. Product Development |
| Number of Exams | 5 Exams | 3 Exams |
| Exam Format | Multiple Choice. Module 1 – 105 questions, Module 2-5 – 75 questions | Multi-choice. Module 1 & 2 – 165 questions, Module 3 – 185 questions |
| Exam Duration | 3 hrs. for each module | Module 1 & 2 – 2 hrs. 45 min, Module 3 – 3 hrs. |
| Minimum Pass Score | 300 | 400 |
Note: All exams (both CPIM and CPSM) are administered through the Pearson-Vue Testing Center (as noted previously)- and upon completion of the exam – immediate feedback is provided as to: pass or fail.