ART - NIGP Certification & Education Survey 2002

The document is a survey report on NIGP certification and education. It provides information on the geographic region and agency/jurisdiction type of the respondents. The survey also explores the professional certifications preferred or required by jurisdictions during recruitment. It indicates that 416 out of 559 agencies either require or prefer professional certifications. The document further discusses the conditions for eligibility and employment related to professional certification. It mentions the incentives provided to those holding current certifications, such as promotional opportunities, salary increases, cash bonuses, and professional training opportunities. The report also highlights the financial assistance provided for training leading to certification, certification and re-certification applications, and testing. It reveals that 377 out of 559 respondents have certified Directors/Purchasing Agents. Additionally, the document provides information on the percentage of purchasing employees holding certifications based on their classification. It concludes with the motivational factors for seeking certification, including the ability to earn a higher salary, serve in leadership roles, advance within the organization, contribute to the profession, gain credibility with customers, demonstrate expertise, and receive recognition as a professional. The document also includes reasons why some respondents are not interested in achieving certification at the moment, such as the cost of application and exams, and the belief that exams do not measure knowledge and skills accurately. Specifically, it mentions that 19 respondents (13.77%) fear taking exams, and 16 respondents (11.59%) believe that exams do not accurately measure knowledge and skills of candidates.