We often see the terms “certificate management software” and “certification management software” listed interchangeably. But they are not interchangeable. Each refers to a specific functionality and purpose, and one won’t necessarily substitute for the other. Which one is the right solution for you? Read on to learn the difference:
What is Certification Management Software?
Certification management software supports organizations in confirming applicant eligibility, conferring certification status, and managing recertification requirements. In other words, certification management software “translates” a certification handbook into an online application.
To become certified, a person typically must demonstrate proficiency within an industry-wide, accepted body of knowledge and practice. Certification can be a rigorous and multifaceted process that involves documenting professional references, educational transcripts, and high-stakes exam scores, among other types of information. Thus, certification management platforms offer process management for multi-step sequences (or workflows) governed by detailed, often complex business rules. Some of the workflows can be completed in parallel. Others have interdependencies and must be completed in sequence.
Can certification management systems “do” certificate management? A certification management system can include automated certificate printing and PDF functionality for score reports, printed credentials, and continuing education (CE).
What is Certificate Management Software?
If you’re seeking a solution for “certificate management” in the context of professional development, you’re likely looking for a Learning Management System (LMS). As part of their core functionality, these systems issue and track certificates related to course completion. While a CE management platform usually tracks learning completed outside the system, an LMS might host and deliver learning content and low-stakes assessments. Depending on the learning management needs of your organization, many LMS options are available.
Can certificate management systems “do” certification management? Certificate management software, such as an LMS, may not have the necessary functionality to collect all the required documentation to determine eligibility for certification. However, an LMS might integrate with a certification management platform to document learning activities as part of the application process. That way, someone won’t have to enter activities completed in one system into another system, which takes time and creates the potential for user error.
Note: The term “certificate management” may also refer to digital certificates used for security and verification, such as SSL/TLS, PKI, and S/MIME. In this case, organizations use certificate management solutions to track and monitor the lifecycle of digital certificates and their keys. This ensures security and compliance in terms of identity, authentication, and data exchange.
Meet LearningBuilder: Comprehensive Certification Management Software
For the last fifteen years, certification boards and organizations have relied on our LearningBuilder certification management software to optimize their certification processes. As the industry’s most trusted certification management software, LearningBuilder empowers organizations to evaluate constituent eligibility and continuing competence throughout the certification lifecycle.
If you’re interested in a robust technology solution to streamline your certification management processes, schedule an introductory call to see if LearningBuilder is the right fit for your program needs.
