CIPS A10 exam, also known as Measuring Performance in Purchasing and Supply, is a certification exam designed to measure a candidate's knowledge and skills in measuring, evaluating, and improving purchasing and supply performance. The exam covers a range of topics related to measuring and managing supply chain performance, such as key performance indicators, benchmarking, performance measurement techniques, and continuous improvement strategies. Passing the A10 exam is a significant achievement that demonstrates your competence in procurement and supply chain management.
Exam Objectives:
- Understand the importance of measuring and improving purchasing and supply performance
- Identify and evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs) and their relevance to different supply chain operations
- Understand the concept of benchmarking and how to apply it to measure performance
- Apply a range of performance measurement techniques and tools to measure and improve supply chain performance
- Develop and implement continuous improvement strategies to enhance purchasing and supply performance
Who should take the exam?
The CIPS A10 exam is suitable for procurement and supply chain professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in measuring and improving supply chain performance. The exam is particularly relevant for those who are involved in performance management, quality control, and process improvement within procurement and supply chain functions.
Prerequisites and Qualifications:
There are no specific prerequisites or qualifications for taking the A10 exam. However, it is recommended that candidates have some prior knowledge or experience in procurement and supply chain management to enhance their chances of passing the exam. Additionally, candidates are required to have a CIPS membership to be eligible for the exam.
Related Books:
- "Supply Chain Performance: Collaboration, Alignment and Coordination" by Martin Christopher and Remko van Hoek
- "Key Performance Indicators (KPI): Developing, Implementing, and Using Winning KPIs" by David Parmenter
- "The Procurement Value Proposition: The Rise of Supply Management" by Gerard Chick and Robert Handfield
- "Purchasing and Supply Chain Management" by Arjan van Weele
- "Performance-Based Management: What Every Manager Should Do to Get Results" by Judith Hale
Exam Details:
The CIPS A10 exam is a computer-based exam that consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. The duration of the exam is 90 minutes. The passing mark for the exam is 75%, which means that candidates need to score at least 45 marks out of 60 to pass the exam. The cost of the exam varies depending on the location and CIPS membership status of the candidate. The exam can be taken online or at a CIPS exam center.
In conclusion, passing the CIPS A10 exam requires a solid understanding of key performance indicators, benchmarking, performance measurement techniques, and continuous improvement strategies. Candidates should be familiar with the relevant concepts and tools and be able to apply them to real-world procurement and supply chain scenarios. By studying the recommended books and practicing with sample exam questions, candidates can increase their chances of passing the A10 exam and achieving their CIPS certification.