
In the dynamic world of business, staying ahead in supply chain management can feel like a complex puzzle. The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) is here to fit those pieces together, with its roots stretching back as the renowned APICS.
This article will unveil how ASCM’s resources and certifications can streamline your supply chain challenges. Discover ASCM’s potential to transform your operations – read on!
Key Takeaways – Association for Supply Chain Management
ASCM, formerly known as APICS, is a leading global organisation dedicated to supply chain management excellence, offering key certifications including CPIM, CSCP, and CLTD.
The association provides ongoing education and maintains ethical standards for professionals to remain current in the industry; it requires recertification every five years.
Members of ASCM gain access to extensive resources like professional development programmes, networking events and can connect with a global community of experts.
By merging with the Supply – Chain Council and other organisations, ASCM has expanded its reach and influence in setting worldwide standards for supply chain operations.
Joining ASCM not only bolsters one’s credentials but also opens paths for innovation by staying updated on trends through publications such as SCM Now and engaging in thought leadership.
Exploring the Mission and History of Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)

Delving into the core objectives and storied past of ASCM reveals a commitment to empowering supply chain professionals through education, certification, and community. This exploration charts the journey from its inception as APICS to becoming the global leader in supply chain organisational excellence.
The historical Supply-Chain Council
The Supply-Chain Council broke new ground in 1996 with the development of the Supply-Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model, revolutionising how organisations approached supply chains.
This innovation provided a robust framework for addressing complex supply chain transformation management challenges, enabling businesses to benchmark and improve their supply chain processes effectively.
As it strove to shape industry standards, the Council’s influence expanded significantly.
In a pivotal move during 2014, the Council merged with ASCM, bringing together their collective expertise and resources. This merger fortified ASCM’s standing as a global leader in supply chain management education and its certification programs.
The subsequent integration with the American Society of Transportation and Logistics in 2015 further solidified this position by broadening its reach across different facets of logistics and transportation.
Directors now had access to enhanced professional designations such as CPIM, CSCP, and CLTD certifications – credentials that represented mastery in various aspects of supply chain operations.
Let’s explore how these milestones led to ASCM’s evolution and its current offerings in professional certifications.
Association for Supply Chain Management’s (ASCM) evolution and certifications
Following its merger with the Supply-Chain Council, ASCM has emerged as a powerhouse for setting global supply chain standards and offering top-tier certifications. This union marked a significant leap forward in how professionals approach supply chain management by integrating the renowned SCOR model into ASCM’s educational framework.
The organisation recognises that mastery in various aspects of supply chains is not just about theoretical knowledge; it requires validation through rigorous certification exams.
ASCM rolled out several esteemed certifications to nurture expertise in the industry, such as CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management) and CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional).
They also introduced CLTD (Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution), further diversifying the accreditation portfolio to cover more specialised areas like logistics and distribution.
These designations serve as benchmarks of excellence, signifying that holders can lead modern, complex supply chain operations effectively. Knowledge-hungry professionals are gravitating towards these credentials to gain an edge in procurement, inventory management, enterprise resources planning – essential components that drive successful business functions today.
The Benefits of Joining Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)

Membership with the Association for Supply Chain Management unlocks a treasure trove of resources and exclusive networking opportunities, tailored to elevate professionals within the field. Engaging with ASCM gives individuals not only recognition but also a solid platform to amplify their supply chain expertise through continuous learning and expansive networking avenues.
Requirements for membership and professional certifications
Joining the Association for Supply Chain Management unveils a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth. To become a member or attain certifications, certain criteria must be met.
Professional Designations: ASCM offers esteemed professional designations including CPIM, CSCP, and CLTD. These certifications show high-level expertise in key areas like production, inventory management, and logistics.
Open Membership: The doors of ASCM are open to all industry professionals looking to enhance their supply chain knowledge. Inclusivity is a cornerstone of the association.
Certification Process: To earn certifications such as CPIM or CSCP, members must undergo rigorous training and successfully pass comprehensive exams.
Continuous Education Requirement: Maintaining certification demands commitment to ongoing learning through ASCM’s professional development programmes.
Advanced Training: Members can access online classes focused on sales and operations planning, demand management, inventory control, and more to further their skill set.
Practical Experience: Real-world experience in supply chain roles is essential prior to applying for advanced certifications. This ensures that members can apply theoretical knowledge effectively.
Ethical Standards: Applicants must agree to uphold a code of conduct that reflects professionalism and ethical business practices within the supply chain industry.
Global Recognition: Certifications from ASCM are recognised globally, adding significant value to professionals’ credentials on an international scale.
Recertification Cycle: Certified professionals are required to recertify every five years to ensure their skills remain current with evolving industry best practices.
Networking and professional development opportunities
Expanding your professional network and enhancing career skills are key benefits of engaging with organisations through the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). Directors will find that ASCM serves as a robust platform for connecting with peers and accessing resources essential for growth.
Engage with industry leaders at bi-weekly meetings where supply chain trends, challenges, and solutions are discussed.
Attend guest speaker sessions from seasoned professionals offering insights into operational strategies, material requirements planning, and performance metrics.
Participate in exclusive workshops that focus on areas like process control, quality assurance, and data accuracy to refine your own organisational practices.
Access ASCM’s online learning courses tailored to directors aiming to master topics such as decarbonisation strategies and climate action in supply chains.
Leverage certificate programs like CPIM, CSCP, and CLTD to certify your expertise in inventory management, warehouse operations, and logistical planning.
Take advantage of ASCM – hosted events for opportunities to showcase company achievements or learn about innovative supply chain solutions from suppliers globally.
Capitalise on member – only resources that include databases packed with information on purchasing best practices, sourcing ethics, and the latest tools in automated storage systems.
Explore leadership roles within the IUP APICS organisation sponsored by local chapters like APICS Pittsburgh to foster student networking initiatives.
Collaborate through corporate social responsibility forums where you can partner with other organisations committed to ethical sourcing and decarbonising operations.
ASCM’s Impact on the Industry

As the vanguard of supply chain excellence, ASCM’s role extends far beyond providing certifications; it shapes industry standards and propels innovation. Through its diverse array of publications and global advocacy, ASCM sets the tone for what effective, sustainable supply chain management should embody in an ever-evolving marketplace.
Publications and thought leadership
The ASCM’s flagship publication, SCM Now, spearheads the dissemination of new ideas and innovative practices in the field of supply chain management. With insightful articles and expert analysis, this resource has become a beacon for professionals seeking cutting-edge strategies and industry wisdom.
It is not just about reporting on trends; it influences them by contributing to the thought leadership that shapes tomorrow’s supply chain landscape.
Through their comprehensive approach to content creation, ASCM ensures customers that every issue offers actionable solutions paired with rigorous research. They have consistently pushed boundaries with initiatives like developing the SCOR-model process – a testament to their commitment to refining supply chain efficiency worldwide.
Each publication serves as a toolkit for directors eager to apply best practices within their operations and steer their teams towards greater effectiveness in an ever-evolving market.
Global reach and influence
ASCM’s presence transcends borders, making it a force to be reckoned with on the global supply chain stage. With members in over 100 countries, its influence shapes industry practices and standards worldwide.
This vast network empowers professionals to exchange ideas and innovations, driving efficiency and progress across continents.
The association’s merger with entities like the Supply-Chain Council and the American Society of Transportation and Logistics has broadened its expertise. Such strategic alliances enhance ASCM’s capability to navigate complex international supply chain issues, offering cutting-edge knowledge and certifications that are recognised globally – from operations management right through to mitigation strategies for bottlenecks.
Through these efforts, ASCM not only expands its footprint but also fortifies the backbone of industries around our planet.
How to Get Involved with Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)

Engaging with the Association for Supply Chain Management empowers professionals to shape their career trajectory and contribute to the industry’s progress. Discover paths to active participation that open doors to a wealth of knowledge and peer connections in the vast landscape of supply chain management.
Member testimonials and success stories
Member testimonials and success stories are a powerful testament to the impact that the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) has on its participants. These accounts from former members not only showcase personal growth but also reflect the effectiveness of the ASCM member’s programmes.
Numerous directors have experienced transformative career advancements after joining ASCM; these narratives highlight the value of membership.
Leaders in supply chain management often credit ASCM with enhancing their strategic vision and operational know-how, allowing them to tackle complex challenges more effectively.
Testimonials frequently mention the comprehensive nature of ASCM’s certifications, which equip professionals with a robust set of skills that are immediately applicable in their day-to-day roles.
Success stories include instances where members have utilised ASCM networking events to forge connections that led to collaborative projects and innovation in supply chain practices.
Many ASCM alumni speak about how exposure to global supply chain approaches through the association sparked ideas for streamlining their own operations.
Professionals laud the continuous learning opportunities offered by ASCM, stating these have kept them at the forefront of industry developments and best practices.
The reputation ASCM holds in the industry is often cited as a significant advantage; having its credentials is seen as a mark of excellence and dedication.
Conclusion- Association for Supply Chain Management
Joining ASCM opens doors to a world of supply chain excellence, where like-minded professionals and industry leaders collaborate to drive innovation. Through its rich history and transformative evolution, this essential association shapes the future of global manufacturing and supply chains.
By engaging with ASCM members, one finds not just professional growth but also becomes part of an influential force propelling the industry forward. Discover the value and influence that comes with being connected with ASCM’s diverse community today.
Make your mark in revolutionising how goods flow around our planet.
FAQs
1. What does ASCM stand for?
ASCM stands for the Association for Supply Chain Management, which is a global leader in supply chain organisational transformation, innovation and leadership.
2. Who are APICS and why do they matter to ASCM?
APICS was once known as the American Production and Inventory Control Society, and it’s now part of ASCM; they’re important because they created many of the industry standards used in supply chain management today.
3. Can joining the ASCM help with managing goods from production to delivery?
Yes, being a member of the ASCM can help you learn about effective supply chain management practices that cover everything from producing goods to warehousing and delivering them efficiently.
4. Does ASCM offer education or certification for those interested in supply chains?
Absolutely! The association’ program offers various educational resources and computer-based testing for certifications that can add-on valuable knowledge on maintaining inventories, inspection workflows, marketing products and much more.
5. In what ways does technology play into what ASCM does?
Technology is key in today’s supply chains; through computers, software tools, and maintenance/repair overhaul services, practices ensure that organisations underpacte mondial stay competitive by automating complex processes within their workflows.
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