Analytics Magazine Analytics Magazine, January/February 2014 | Page 45

publication on “The Shape of Analytics Certification.” While many of the newer degrees in analytics incorporate much of the same components in their curricular program, other related degrees may focus more on providing depth in one or more technical skill areas. The scope of relevant skills emerged from the CAP job task analysis (JTA), a methodological approach to determining what should be tested, that was developed to be a market-driven assessment of necessary skill areas for analytics professionals. In addition to addressing breadth of knowledge, the CAP certification tests skills, which can be defined as “the ability to use one’s knowledge effectively and readily in execution or performance.” This means that not only has the individual learned the knowledge through formal or informal education, but they also demonstrate proficiency in the application of that knowledge. While casebased interviewing is possible, it is tricky. So, while employers can ask a more concrete question such as familiarity with a particular algorithm, assessing whether a candidate knows when and how to apply this algorithm is tougher. The CAP tests this kind of scenario through the domains of business problem framing and methodology selection. Finally, students often learn the fundamentals in academic environments, which may not suffer from A NA L Y T I C S The 5 E’s in CAP Many of the questions we receive from prospective applicants focus on the Exam, which tests skills and knowledge listed in the JTA. However, we would like to emphasize the importance of the other four E’s to employers and clients of analytics professionals. In order to apply for certification and take the exam, a candidate must demonstrate that they possess the necessary Education (B.S. or higher) and analytics-related Experience (3-7 years, depending on level of degree and field of study). Additionally, they must demonstrate Effectiveness, by having their soft skills validated by a current or former employer or client. Finally, they must agree to abide by a written Code of Ethics. the rigors of data that are often dirty, incomplete, messy, big, etc. The JTA covers the entire analytic life cycle, starting with the problem, working through the data, and finishing with model deployment and monitoring, thus addressing the challenges of real-world problems. Through a shared understanding of criteria and standards across the work environment, those employing analytics professionals will have greater confidence and assurance of organizational and individual qualifications. J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 014 | 45