The Power of Professional Certifications – by Axelos

The positive impact

Top Key Takeaways from Axelos Research on Professional Certification Impact

  • 97% of organizations and 84% of individual professionals report that certification positively impacts efficiency and employee satisfaction.

  • 58% of decision-makers sponsor certification to meet company and industry requirements.

  • 54% cite keeping pace with evolving technology and improving employee productivity as primary reasons for supporting certification.

  • Nearly two-thirds (61%) of professionals receive employer support in the form of days off for training, and 53% get funding for certification programs.

  • Individuals pursue certification mainly to build new skills (66%) and gain confidence in their professional abilities (52%).

  • IT Service Management (ITSM) and Project Portfolio Management (PPM) certifications are expected to remain in high demand over the next several years.

Certification continues to be a powerful driver of organizational success and individual career growth, according to new data published by Axelos in The Power of Professional Certification report.

Decision-makers emphasize that certification helps organizations comply with industry standards, adapt to technological change, and boost workforce productivity. Meanwhile, employers are increasingly supporting learning and development by providing time off and financial assistance for certification training.

For professionals, certification is more than a credential—it is a pathway to acquiring new skills and gaining confidence in their expertise, essential in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Catherine Newman, Chief Commercial Officer at Axelos, highlights:
“Certification demonstrates proven expertise and a commitment to continuous learning, which are critical in our rapidly evolving world. Our research shows sustained demand for ITSM and PPM certifications, signaling strong career opportunities for those certified.”

The report is based on an international survey conducted in 2018 with 1,870 respondents across 24 industries, revealing that nearly 60% had yet to obtain Axelos certifications, indicating significant growth potential.