Diligent eSecurity International

CISM Certification: Origin

The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification was created by ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association) in 2003. ISACA developed CISM to address the growing need for a certification specifically focused on information security management and governance, rather than just technical security skills. The certification was designed to recognize professionals who design, manage, and oversee an enterprise's information security program, filling a gap between technical security certifications and the strategic, managerial aspects of cybersecurity.

Industry Value and Importance

CISM is highly valued in the cybersecurity industry because it demonstrates expertise in security risk management, governance, incident management, and program development from a management perspective. Many organizations, particularly large enterprises and government agencies, specifically seek CISM-certified professionals for leadership roles in information security. The certification is globally recognized and often commands higher salaries compared to non-certified peers. Its focus on aligning security practices with business objectives makes it particularly relevant for professionals aspiring to senior security management positions, including Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) roles.

CISSP Certification Overview

Origin

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) was created by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, commonly known as (ISC)², in 1994. The certification was developed in response to the growing need for a standardized, vendor-neutral credential that could validate the expertise of information security professionals. (ISC)² designed the CISSP to establish a common body of knowledge for the cybersecurity field and provide a benchmark for measuring professional competence in information security.

Industry Value

The CISSP is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious and recognized certifications in cybersecurity, often required or preferred for senior-level security positions. Its value stems from its comprehensive coverage of eight security domains, including security operations, asset security, and security architecture, which demonstrates a candidate's broad expertise across the entire security landscape. The certification is accredited to ISO/IEC Standard 17024 and meets U.S. Department of Defense Directive 8570 requirements, making it particularly valuable for government contractors and enterprise organizations. Employers value CISSP-certified professionals because the rigorous examination process and experience requirements (minimum five years) ensure holders possess both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in managing and implementing security programs.

PMP Certification Overview

Origin and Background

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification was created by the Project Management Institute (PMI), a non-profit professional organization founded in 1969. PMI introduced the PMP certification in 1984 to establish a standardized credential for project management professionals across all industries. The certification was developed to validate practitioners' knowledge of project management principles, methodologies, and best practices as outlined in PMI's Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide). While PMP is not specifically a cybersecurity or IT certification, it is widely pursued by professionals in these fields who manage technology projects.

Industry Value and Importance

The PMP certification is highly valued because it demonstrates a professional's ability to manage complex projects, lead teams, and deliver results on time and within budget. In the IT and cybersecurity sectors, where projects often involve multiple stakeholders, tight deadlines, and significant technical challenges, the PMP credential signals competency in essential project management skills including scope management, risk mitigation, and resource allocation. Many organizations prefer or require PMP certification for project management roles, and studies have shown that PMP-certified professionals often command higher salaries than their non-certified peers. The certification's global recognition and PMI's requirement for continuing education also ensure that holders maintain current, relevant project management expertise.