Information Systems Professional of Canada Designation
The Information Systems Professional of Canada designation (I.S.P.) is a designation I.S. professionals can be proud to use. It shows employers and/or clients that I.S.P. holders have met certain recognized standards of education and experience. The designation marks a commitment to professional integrity and ongoing learning. The designation is shown as initials after a Certified Member's name (e.g. Joe Bloggins, I.S.P.).
A condition of holding the I.S.P. is maintaining membership with the Canadian Information Processing Society of British Columbia.
The I.S.P. is designed to:
- regulate standards of practice and ethics;
- establish a professional image;enhance credibility of practitioners;
- prevent erosion of expertise by other professions;
- increase protection for the public; and
- strengthen career opportunities.
There are many benefits, to individuals, employers, and the public.
There are several ways to qualify for the I.S.P. designation. Applicants must have the stated amount of experience in a role requiring the use of a significant level of IS knowledge where a high level of independent judgement and responsibility are exercised. More details are available on the CIPS National home page, under I.S.P. Designation.
Statistics: Certified Members
As of February 2009
| Province / Section | Certified |
Candidate |
Non-Certified | Student | Total |
| British Columbia |
157 |
1 |
167 | 10 | 355 |
| Kamloops | 10 |
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| Prince George |
4 |
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| Vancouver | 83 |
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| Victoria | 48 |
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| Canada including International |
1439 | 5091 |
ISP Background
Information technology continues to affect an increasing number of organizations and private citizens. The need for stronger professional standards for those who create and implement systems has increased along with this rapid growth.
Until 1989, informations systems practitioners were one of the few professional groups in Canada without a professional designation. Without this status, we had a diminished voice on issues of great importance to us.
In early 1989, CIPS introduced the Information Systems Professional of Canada program. The I.S.P. is a professional designation for IS practitioners in all segments of our industry. It is a designation IS professionals can be proud to use. It shows employers and/or clients that I.S.P. holders have met certain recognized standards of education and experience.
Becoming an I.S.P. holder is the most effective way for you to add your voice to CIPS's efforts to establish the information systems profession. And you'll become one of almost 3,000 CIPS members to date who have demonstrated their interest in higher professional standards for our industry by applying for their I.S.P. designation.