BTM CERTIFICATION PROCESS

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2 Table of Contents What is BTM?... 5 Benefits of the Certification Program... 7 Diversity of the BTM Profession... 8 About the BTM Certification Credentials... 9 Elements of the Business Technology Management Certification Standards Core Skills Body of Knowledge (BoK) Capability framework Competency Framework Eligibility Requirements Pathways to Certification Normal Pathway Alternate Pathway Alternate Pathway Alternate Pathway Assessment Steps to Certification A) Application Getting Started Application Fees: Registration Current Employment Education References Confirmation B) Background Validation C) Board Assessment For Professional and Executive Class Only D) Registrar Review E) Certification Council Ratification F) Successful Certification G) Appeal of Certification Decision

3 H) Complaints Regarding Certification Process Revalidation of Competence for Professional and Executive Level Why revalidate? Revalidation process Digital Certification Accreditation of Programs

4 Thank you for your interest in the Business Technology Management (BTM) certification program with the BTM Forum. The BTM Forum was founded in 2016 by the Information Technology Association of Canada (ITAC), Canada s national ICT business association, as an autonomous marquee umbrella organization to build on the Business Technology Management (BTM) initiative. Our mission is to make BTM the most educated, capable, and recognized profession in the world. BTM Forum works to accomplish this by advancing proven standards and best practices that help BTM professionals in their daily jobs and help organizations to best utilize BTM professionals in executing their technology strategies. The BTM Forum strives to enable individual BTM professionals to set a career path and follow that career path across organizations in a way that other professions may take for granted. The BTM certification is overseen by the BTM Forum Certification Council (BTMFCC). The BTMFCC is dedicated to recognizing competent BTM professionals. The BTMFCC oversees the final ratification of all applicants and contributes to the maintenance of the certification process. 4

5 What is BTM? Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is decreasingly about traditional desk-bound programming and increasingly about new 21st century careers for professionals who display leadership and innovation. The profession is coming of age and the role of the ICT professional is changing rapidly as their influence spreads from technology departments to every facet of an organization s operation. The traditional ICT department, as a support function dedicated to providing technical solutions to problems defined by the business, is disappearing. It is being replaced by multidisciplinary professionals who are transformation partners, spread throughout organizations to power new levels of productivity and competitiveness. Employers are increasingly recognizing the critical need for these new breed of professionals who have a much greater blend of business, technology and management skills to ensure every organization can exploit the full potential of ICT. Business Technology Management (BTM) is a rapidly emerging trans-disciplinary research area and professional discipline in Business Administration. Building upon other business disciplines, such as Management Information Systems (MIS) and Technology and Innovation Management (TIM), it seeks to provide an integrated framework for the strategic use of technology and the digital transformation of organizations. BTM is evolving similarly to other research areas in business, e.g., professional disciplines of Change Management (CM) and Management Consulting, developed from foundations in Organizational Behaviour (OB), Strategic Management (SM), and Operations Management (OM). Business Technology Management (BTM) was introduced in 2009 by ITAC at the undergraduate level in response to the feedback that new ICT graduates didn t have the skills needed by businesses. Working together with academic institutions, industry and sector associations, ITAC Talent defined a set of learning outcomes and competency standards required by industry, drawing heavily on relevant international standards for similar programs. BTM is an innovative educational solution that opens academic and career opportunities for post-secondary business students. It equips graduates with the right technical and business skills to enter the workplace. 5

6 BTM programs prepare professionals who have the knowledge, skills and competencies to lead and support the effective, competitive use of information technologies. Since its development in 2009, BTM has impacted thousands of graduates and is currently offered at dozens of post-secondary institutions across Canada. 6

7 Benefits of the Certification Program Unites BTM job profiles toward more flexible career paths, allowing professionals to grow through more diverse functions within and outside corporate IT functions Formalizes the BTM Body of Knowledge (BTM BOK), integrating in a coherent framework several leading business, technology, and management certifications. Provides continuity between traditional corporate IT and various roles throughout the IT industry and community Enables individual practitioners to differentiate themselves in terms of competence and specialization. Established a professional standard and peer cohort so as to continue to drive quality and innovation in business technology management. Provides a mechanism for individual career development and for organisations to utilise as an internal professional development assessment tool. Provides a common language and level of competence of BTM practitioners for those organizations seeking to recruit, contract or outsource BTM services. 7

8 Diversity of the BTM Profession BTM certification set the standard for professional excellence. It provides objective proof of knowledge and experience in the broad field of BTM. BTM integrates them into a coherent professional discipline and provide a complete Body of Knowledge. 8

9 About the BTM Certification Credentials BTMA Associate Level This title is intended for emerging BTM professionals, and is available to recent graduates and those with fewer than five years of relevant work experience. A BTM Associate has demonstrated the required breadth and depth of knowledge and skills and competence to perform within their specialism with the assistance and supervision of a professional. BTMP Professional Level This title is intended for professionals who possess significant experience in the BTM field, and provide formal recognition of their unique competencies. A BTM Certified Professional has demonstrated the required breadth and depth of knowledge and skills within their specialism independently and takes responsibility for the delivery of process and systems. BTME Executive Level This title is intended for professionals who possess significant experience in the BTM field, and has been a professional for at least seven years and demonstrated the skills and competence to operate at the highest organizational level with authority over all aspects of a significant area of BTM work including policy formulation and application. 9

10 Elements of the Business Technology Management Certification Standards Core Skills Demonstrated competency of the core skills relevant to the level of certification. These core skills are defined for each level and will include the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) responsibilities and skills. Body of Knowledge (BoK) Demonstrated substantial breadth and depth of knowledge as defined in the BTM Body of Knowledge (page 14 on). Capability framework The BTM Certification has adopted the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) as the capability framework and has adopted the following SFIA levels of responsibilities and skills for each of the certification levels: Certification Level SFIA Level Associate Minimum SFIA Level 3 Professional Minimum SFIA Level 5 Executive Minimum SFIA Level 7 10

11 SFIA generic levels Autonomy Influence Level 3 Level 5 Level 7 apply ensure, advise set strategy, inspire, mobilize Works under general Works under broad Has authority and responsibility supervision. Uses direction. Is fully for all aspects of a significant discretion in accountable for own area of work, including policy identifying and technical work and/or formation and application. Is resolving complex project/supervisory fully accountable for actions problems and responsibilities. taken and decisions made, both assignments. Usually Receives assignments by self and subordinates. receives specific in the form of instructions and objectives. has work reviewed at Establishes own frequent milestones. milestones and team Determines when objectives, and issues should be delegates escalated to a higher responsibilities. Work level. is often self-initiated. Interacts with and influences department/project team members. May have working level contact with customers and suppliers. In predictable and structured areas may supervise others. Makes decisions which may impact on the work assigned to individuals or phases of projects. Influences organization, customers, suppliers and peers within industry on the contribution of own specialism. Has significant responsibility for the work of others and for the allocation of resources. Makes decisions which impact on the success of assigned projects i.e. results, deadlines and budget. Develops business relationships with customers. Makes decisions critical to organizational success. Influences developments within the IT industry at the highest levels. Advances the knowledge and/or exploitation of IT within one or more organizations. Develops long-term strategic relationships with customers and industry leaders. 11

12 Complexity Performs a broad range of work, sometimes complex and non-routine, in a variety of environments. Business skills Understands and uses appropriate methods, tools and applications. Demonstrates an analytical and systematic approach to problem solving. Takes the initiative in identifying and negotiating appropriate development opportunities. Demonstrates effective communication skills. Contributes fully to the work of teams. Plans, schedules and monitors own work (and that of others where applicable) competently within limited deadlines and according to relevant legislation and procedures. Performs a challenging range and variety of complex technical or professional work activities. Undertakes work which requires the application of fundamental principles in a wide and often unpredictable range of contexts. Understands the relationship between own specialism and wider customer/organizational requirements. Advises on the available standards, methods, tools and applications relevant to own specialism and can make correct choices from alternatives. Analyses, diagnoses, designs, plans, executes and evaluates work to time, cost and quality targets. Communicates effectively, formally and informally, with colleagues, subordinates and customers. Demonstrates leadership. Facilitates collaboration between stakeholders who have diverse objectives. Understands the relevance of own area of responsibility/specialism to the employing organization. Takes customer requirements into account when making proposals. Takes initiative to keep skills up to date. Mentors more junior colleagues. Maintains an awareness of 12 Leads on the formulation and application of strategy. Applies the highest level of management and leadership skills. Has a deep understanding of the IT industry and the implications of emerging technologies for the wider business environment. Has a full range of strategic management and leadership skills. Understands, explains and presents complex technical ideas to both technical and non-technical audiences at all levels up to the highest in a persuasive and convincing manner. Has a broad and deep IT knowledge coupled with equivalent knowledge of the activities of those businesses and other organizations that use and exploit IT. Communicates the potential impact of emerging technologies on organizations and

13 Absorbs and applies technical information. Works to required standards. Understands and uses appropriate methods, tools and applications. Appreciates the wider field of information systems, and how own role relates to other roles and to the business of the employer or client. developments in the industry. Analyses requirements and advises on scope and options for operational improvement. Demonstrates creativity and innovation in applying solutions for the benefit of the customer. individuals and analyses the risks of using or not using such technologies. Assesses the impact of legislation, and actively promotes compliance. Takes the initiative to keep both own and subordinates skills up to date and to maintain an awareness of developments in IT in own area(s) of expertise. Competency Framework The competencies for each certified level are outlined in the National Occupational Standards (starting on page 21). 13

14 Eligibility Requirements To qualify for the BTM certification, a candidate must satisfy basic requirements in the areas of employment and education. Level Associate Professional Executive Education Experience Experience Body of Knowledge (BoK) Capability Competency Demonstrated mastery of the BoK Demonstrated mastery of the BoK Demonstrated mastery of the BoK SFIA Level 3 SFIA Level 5 SFIA Level 7 As per Associate Level (item As per Professional Level (item 4.4.5) As per Executive Level (item Pathways to Certification Normal Pathway Demonstrated mastery of the BoK can be established through a number of ways: a) Successful completion of a BTM Accreditation Council (BTMAC) accredited program. b) Successful completion of a BTM non-accredited program. Alignment of courses with the BoK learning outcomes will be made possible through the completion of the online certification application process. Alternate Pathway Where an applicant for the professional level has qualifications other than an accredited or non accredited BTM post-secondary credential (degree, diploma, etc.) the BTM Forum will assess the individual s demonstrated knowledge requirements based on experience in the workplace and any professional development or education activities undertaken that are BTM relevant (i.e. BTM Approved Continuing Education credits). Alternate Pathway 1 Graduate with a Business credential from a post-secondary educational institution who may require supplementation of the BoK in technology Alternate Pathway 2 Graduate with an ICT credential from a post-secondary educational institution who may require supplementation of the BoK in business process knowledge. 14

15 Assessment BTM Forum trained assessors undertake assessment of applications. The assessors follow the published assessment process. The BTM Forum appoints and train assessors to undertake assessment of individuals for certification at the Professional level. All assessors have at least two years standing at the Professional level of certification. Evaluation will not commence before all required documentation is available. The assessment will involve interviews undertaken by two peers after the evaluation has concluded. 15

16 Steps to Certification The following section details all of the steps involved in certification from the initial application right through the certification decision. A) Application To apply for Certification, you must first sign up for BTM Forum free membership. Apply for membership here. Once you re a registered member, applications for certification are accepted via the My Certification Application tab under your member profile. The online application process allows you to document your education and experience against the BTM certification standards. When you use the online system, you can logout and then resume your application at a later time using the username and password assigned to you when you register as a Member of the BTM Forum. Membership in the BTM Forum is free. Getting Started After signing up for membership, to begin your application, you must first process payment for the application under the My Certification Application tab. Once your purchase has been made select Continue with my application to proceed with your registration. Application Fees: Associate - $50 Professional - $350 Executive - $ 350 Upgrade from Associate to Professional - $300 Upgrade from Professional to Executive - $100 Triennial Re-Certification Fee - $150 Plus applicable taxes Please note: The application fees are non refundable, even in the event of an unsuccessful application for certification. Registration Upon receipt of payment, you will be ed both a receipt and login information. Sign in with this information and access the My Certification tab. You will then proceed with the Certification Application page, at which point you will indicate what level of certification you are applying for and then complete several more fields of information in addition to your general contact information. We suggest you have a copy of your CV available for reference purposes to guide you through the registration questions. 16

17 Current Employment In the online BTM Certification application process, you will enter information about your current employment, including your occupation, and the address of your current employer, start date of your current employer, a brief job description and the contact information for your employer. Each certification level is comprised of a series of competency statements. For each statement, you will be asked to disclose how recently you last demonstrated the competency and to rate your level of proficiency for each competency statement. Education You will be able to select an option from a drop down list that best describes your postsecondary education. If your program is not BTMAC accredited, you will be required to enter specific information about your program such as name of the institution, program name, program length, whether you have successfully completed the program and then you need to align your courses with the BoK learning outcomes. You can also enter BTMAC Approved Continuing Education credits as meeting certain learning outcomes. To verify your educational background, the BTM Forum uses the third party verification service BackCheck. After successful completion of your self-assessment, you will be contacted via within 3 business days requesting that you complete a consent form. This is a requirement for your certification application. Please note that while BackCheck is able to confirm education with the majority of post-secondary educational institutions, it is not a guarantee some institutions are easier to reach than others. Note: If an applicant s education was attained outside Canada and the United States, a credential equivalency assessment needs to be performed. The following Government of Canada recognized agencies could be used to conduct the assessment. You can get your assessment from: Comparative Education Service University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies International Credential Assessment Service of Canada World Education Services International Qualifications Assessment Service International Credential Evaluation Service 17

18 References Peer Reference Selection and Requirements In completing the information on the Certification page, please submit a minimum of three references that can validate your technical competencies. Peer References will be contacted after confirmation that your Self-Assessment has been successful. Peer References should be individuals that have worked with you, and/or observed your BTM related skills, and thus have sufficient knowledge of your competencies. Co-workers, supervisors, and clients are suitable peers for applicants. As an applicant, you cannot choose anyone who you directly supervise to act as a reference, as this would cause a conflict of interest. You are also not able to submit a relative to complete a peer reference validation on your behalf. Peer references are contacted on a random-selection percentage of applicants, thus your peers may or may not be contacted. If your application is randomly selected, your peers will be contacted after confirmation that your self-assessment has been submitted. Confirmation Upon successful submission of your application, you will be forwarded to the Confirmation page. This confirmation page states that you will be contacted shortly regarding the next steps of the process. This will occur after the Background Validation step (outlined below) has been undertaken by the Certification staff. B) Background Validation Applicants for all titles undergo a validation of the employment and education information that they have submitted. In this stage, Certification staff ensures that all necessary information to evaluate and validate all of your employment and education submissions has been received. During the Background Validation, Certification staff may contact the verification contacts you listed in your employment history to ensure the information is accurate. Once you have submitted your application, Background Validation will typically be completed within 5 business days. You will be contacted by with the results of background validation. 18

19 C) Board Assessment For Professional and Executive Class Only Once the results of your Background Validation, and Peer Validation have been received by the Registrar, a final short interview will be conducted. The BTMCP and BTMCE credentials are achieved by passing a board of your peers who have obtained the BTMCP level or higher already. The review logistics follow this deployment: 30-minute board session a. 10-minute presentation given by candidate b. 10-minute Q&A Session d. 10-minute final Q&A session and wrap up Review results are conveyed within 48 business hours via the applicant s online application profile. D) Registrar Review A final step will be conducted to ensure that all steps were successful, and all submissions and documentation are in place before your application goes to the BTM Certification Council for ratification. E) Certification Council Ratification The BTM Certification Council will review elements of your application and provide final ratification. Generally, the Council meets during the second week of each month. If your application is approved for certification by the Council, you will be notified via . F) Successful Certification If you are successfully certified you will be mailed a certification package including a digital certification badge, and your name will be added to the publicly available roster. G) Appeal of Certification Decision If you are unsuccessful in your application for certification, and you feel that the certification process was handled inappropriately, you are entitled to appeal the certification decision. If you would like further information on the appeal fee or process, please contact the Registrar info@itactalent.ca H) Complaints Regarding Certification Process If you are unhappy with aspects of the certification process, you are entitled to file your written complaint with the Registrar. The BTM Forum endeavours to investigate complaints in a constructive, impartial and timely manner. The complaint is assigned to a suitable investigator, 19

20 and a correction, cause and corrective or preventive actions are determined and carried out. The complainant will be updated when significant progress has been made and/or when the investigation is concluded. 20

21 Revalidation of Competence for Professional and Executive Levels Why revalidate? The BTM standard is based on the needs of industry. Employers, academics and Government have told us that they value a status which: is rigorous and demanding to achieve shows that holders understand the business they are working in and add business value through the use of technology tells an employer something about the holder which they cannot find out easily themselves is underpinned by periodic revalidation An important feature of the BTM standard is the validation of competence. Your certificate of current competence, which requires revalidation every three years, sets you apart from other practitioners and shows you have an ongoing commitment to raising standards. Revalidation process You will be asked to provide evidence which demonstrates that you have been working in a BTM related role(s) using skills equivalent to SFIA Level 5 or higher for at least two of the last three years. We will ask you to provide examples of work for which you have been personally responsible under the SFIA definitions of Complexity, Influence, Business Skills and Autonomy, along with an up to date copy of your CV. Revalidation will also require you to provide some examples of appropriate continuing professional development activities you have undertaken since award of the Professional or Executive level of certification. Although we do not prescribe the specific CPD activity to be carried out for revalidation, following a structured process and recording your CPD is recommended. More details on types of CPD can be found in our CPD Portal. We strongly recommend that you don t leave it to the last few months to keep a record of your CPD and remember, the format of your CPD record is less important than the benefit you gained from your CPD when it comes to revalidation. The evidence you supply for revalidation will be peer assessed by our assessors. 21

22 Digital Certification The certification will not include a wall certificate. Instead you will receive a digital certification. An image of the logo of the BTM certification that you achieved with the metadata on your professional profile. This enabling technology makes your credential capable of being verified and shared across the Internet for maximum brand visibility and recognition A digital badge gives you exponential brand reach. 22

23 Accreditation of Programs Accreditation by the Business Technology Management Accreditation Council (BTMAC) provides assurance that a program meets the quality standards of the profession for which that program prepares graduates. The BTMAC accredits programs, not institutions and the accreditation is voluntary. English Version French Version Conseil d agrément en gestion des technologies d affaires (CAGTA) 23

24 HOW TO CONTACT BTM FORUM STAFF Should you require any assistance during the application process, or have questions after becoming certified, please feel free to contact Certifications staff at any time: Phone: Explorer Drive, Suite 501 Mississauga, Ontario L4W 4T9 24