I am looking at training providers and some lean toward the ASQ Body of Knowledge while others follow IASSC. ASQ requires a project, but IASSC doesn't seem to. Does the industry value one over the other when it comes to hiring a full-time Continuous Improvement Lead?
3 answers
ASQ is generally considered the "Gold Standard" because of their strict project requirement and their long history in the quality space. Because you have to prove you’ve actually finished a project, employers know you have practical experience. IASSC is very popular because it focuses strictly on the knowledge and the exam, making it faster to achieve if you are in between jobs. However, if you go the IASSC route, you really need to have a strong portfolio of work to show during interviews to make up for the lack of a "certified" project. Both are respected, but ASQ carries more weight in heavy industry.
Have you checked which certification your current or target company prefers? Some organizations have a strong internal preference for one over the other.
ASQ is harder and takes longer, but the prestige is higher. If you want the most "rigorous" path, ASQ is the way to go.
I agree with Laura. The ASQ exam was the hardest test I’ve ever taken, but the sense of accomplishment and the respect I get from peers made it worth every hour of study.
Thomas, that’s the best advice. I’ve worked at companies where they only hired ASQ because they wanted that verified project experience. Before spending the money, look at the LinkedIn profiles of the people working in the department you want to join to see which letters they have after their names.