The number of different IT certification programs offered today is on the order of 100 or more. They are available from vendors, independent training providers, professional associations, and colleges and universities. In addition to offering traditional degree programs, many colleges and universities now offer certificates in specified areas of technology to serve the continuing education needs of local businesses. Local programs, however, can fall short of the needs of larger corporations with nationwide or global requirements. This can be particularly true if consistency of content is important.
Many vendors offer certification programs based on in-depth training on their specific products.
User organizations, on the other hand, may find it preferable to ensure that their technical staff have a broader understanding of the technology than provided by a single vendor's certification. Both types of certification training are available from numerous training sources nationwide. The CCP and CNP designations require various examinations to determine mastery of the appropriate knowledge, requisite levels of experience, and adherence to a professional code of ethics. Both organizations accept a limited number of outside certifications in lieu of some specialty exams, and both require continuing education to retain their certifications. In essence, the CCP and CNP designations are intended to serve the same role for the information technology profession as the CPA designation does for the financial profession.