Frequently Asked Question for CPIM

1. What is APICS?

APICS, founded in the year 1973, is a global standard in supply chain management. Across the globe, in more than 120 countries, supply chain management professionals rely on APICS Education and Certification to transform their supply chains and to advance their career. APICS is part of Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). APICS Learning Systems for CPIM, CSCP and CLTD certifications are the most updated body of knowledge revised annually to represent the fast evolving supply chain and ever increasing ideas on SCM best practices. Connecting with APICS brings continuous updates on advancements, ideas and networking opportunities in SCM through newsletters, webinars, events and conferences.

2. What is IISCM?

IISCM is a unit of Fhyzics Business Consultants Private Limited. Institute for Integrated Supply Chain Management (IISCM) offers Consulting, Certifications (CPIM, CSCP, CLTD and CIPS) and Executive Development Programs (EDP) in the area of supply chain, transportation, procurement, logistics, warehousing, distribution and inventory management. Fhyzics is an Authorized Channel Partner (ACP) of APICS, USA.

3. What is the APICS CPIM Certification?

The Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) certification program is recognized worldwide as the standard in production and inventory control. An APICS certification shows a commitment to lifelong learning, demonstrates value to an employer, enhances earning potential, and provides a path to career advancement. The APICS CPIM program is divided into five process-oriented topics to provide participants with the best possible educational assessment and knowledge base.

4. Am I eligible to appear for CPIM Part 1 examination?

Yes, there are no specific qualifications required for appearing in CPIM Part-1 examination.

5. I have completed my Diploma in Mechanical Engineering . Can I appear for CPIM Part-1 examination?

Yes, absolutely. Since CPIM Part-1 examination doesn’t require any eligibility, any one with the passion of learning production and inventory principles can appear for CPIM.

6. Should I pursue MBA in Operations and Supply Chain Management or CPIM? Which is a better option?

MBA in Operations and Supply Chain Management better focuses on managing the process of planning , organizing and supervising in the contexts of production, manufacturing or the provision of services. While CPIM certification enhances the professional value of the individual, increases the earning potential and provides a career advantage over peers. One can learn necessary terminologies, concepts and strategies related to various knowledge areas like procurement and supplier Planning, demand management, MRP, capacity requirements planning, sales and operations planning, master scheduling, performance measurements, supplier relationships, etc. If you do not have a formal educational background in Manufacturing Management and working or want to pursue your career in manufacturing domain then in that case CPIM helps you to understand end to end operations of supply chain in a structured way and certification becomes an asset for you.

7. What will I earn out of doing CPIM certification?

After completing your CPIM certification you can

· Demonstrate competency in production and inventory management.

· Increase your salary and improve your hiring potential.

· Prove mastery of concepts, strategies, and terminologies and increase functional knowledge of production and inventory management.

· Improve internal operations and increase customer satisfaction.

· Demonstrate your commitment to advancing both your career and your company’s operations.

8. How CPIM would help my career to progress?

CPIMs have the knowledge and skills to get noticed by their employers. Production and Inventory are becoming a major facilitators of business success – efficiencies learned through CPIM certification can reduce costs and increase profits – getting you noticed by senior management. The positive career impacts within the first year of attaining CPIM certification are

Increased knowledge
Increased recognition
Special project assignments
Salary increase
Promotion
Bonus

9. What would be my average salary package after completing CPIM certification?

Based on supply chain compensation and career survey report the average salary for Logistics and Supply chain professionals was $85,210 and the average raise was 3 percent after completing CPIM Certification.

10. Will I get a promotion after completing CPIM in my organization?

Yes the chances for getting promoted to higher designations are high after completing CPIM certification.

11. I am working in government sector, will CPIM helpful to me?

Yes absolutely. CPIM certification helps professionals working in operations or supply chain domain with relevant experience irrespective of the industry or sectors.

12. What are the various steps in the CPIM certification process?

The steps in the CPIM certification process are

Check Eligibility
Consult faculty
Enrol program
Receive preparation materials
Attend Training
Prepare for examination
Take Pre-exam Assessment
Appear in examination
Become CPIM certified.

13. Is CPIM a single Examination?

No , Candidates will earn the APICS CPIM certification after passing two online exams; the CPIM Part 1 exam and the Part 2 exam.

14. How many modules are there in CPIM Part-1?

One module that reflect the most current APICS CPIM PART-1 body of knowledge.

15. How many chapters are there in CPIM Part-1?

There are 10 Chapters in CPIM Part-1.

Module-1: Basics of Supply Chain Management

Introduction to Supply Chain Management
Demand Management
Master Planning
Material Requirements Planning
Capacity Management
Purchasing
Inventory Management
Execution and Control
Physical Distribution
Continuous Improvement

16. Is CPIM Part-1 an objective type examination?

Yes. CPIM examination has 150 objective type multiple choice questions.

17. How many questions are there in CPIM Part-1 examination?

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions (130 operational and 20 pretest). Pretest questions do not contribute to the total score but are necessary for research purposes and are randomly distributed among the scored items and are used for statistical purposes only. Candidates should answer all exam questions and no negative marks for wrong answers.

18. How much I secure to pass CPIM Part -1 Examination?

The APICS CPIM Part-1 examination score range is from 200-350. A score of 300 or higher is required to pass the exam.

19. What is the nature of CPIM Part-1 examination?

CPIM Part-1 is a computer based testing. Candidates should answer all exam questions and no negative marks for wrong answers.

20. What is the duration of the CPIM examination?

Candidates will be allowed 3.5 hours of test time.

21. How many options are there in the CPIM exam questions?

There are 4 options for each objective type questions.

22. What should I carry to the CPIM examination centre?

Candidates must bring a valid primary identification, bearing a future expiration date that includes a recent photograph and signature:

driver’s license (except in China)

▪ passport

▪ military ID

▪ state ID

▪ company ID (except in China)

They also must bring a valid secondary identification that includes their signature:

▪ credit card

▪ check cashing card

▪ citizenship card

▪ another ID from the primary list.

Permitted items -An online computer calculator is available during each computer-based exam, but bringing a simple nonprogrammable calculator into the exam room is also permitted. English-native language translation books are the only written materials candidates may bring into the exam room. These books should contain only the literal translation of English words, and should not include a description of the meaning of the word. The test center manager will inspect these books before candidates are admitted to the testing room.

23. Can I prepare for CPIM Part-1 without learning system?

Yes, but to appear for CPIM Part-1 examination, learning system and APICS membership are mandatory.

24. How many books are there in the learning system?

One module book reflect the most current APICS CPIM Part-1 body of knowledge which includes 10-chapters.

25. Can you explain me about the online component of the learning system?

Access educational activities to support reading module content:

Pre-test and post-test
Smart Study plan
Chapter quizzes
Progress reports
Practice exam - emulates the actual computer-based exam format
Glossary and eFlashcards
Resource center
Mobile access to reading modules, study tools and resources
Online access for one year

26. How many hours should I spend in a day for CPIM Part-1 preparation?

On an average you should spend 2 hours in a day for CPIM Part-1 preparation.

27. How do I convince my boss to support my certification goals?

Investing in the CPIM credential can pay for itself in a matter of months through increased efficiency and new ideas that help to reduce operating costs.

28. I am not an extraordinary student in my academics will I be able to pass CPIM Part-1?

Yes, absolutely. It’s not necessary to be a class topper for passing CPIM Part-1 but to have some practical understanding about the subjects .

29. How to prepare for a CPIM examination?

Choose the right study method for your learning style
Set your exam date to avoid procrastination
Set a study plan, enter it into your calendar, and commit to it
Know your strengths and weaknesses
Study the Exam Content Manual
Determine your “knowledge gaps” and use the Smart Study Tool to spend extra study time in these areas.
Understand how to apply concepts; go beyond memorization
View the Techniques for Successfully Taking APICS Exams video
Be prepared for the testing center and the test format.

The CPIM Learning system is the most comprehensive CPIM certification exam study tool available.

30. Where I will be appearing for examination?

All APICS exams must be delivered in approved Pearson VUE test centers. There are over 5,000 test centers worldwide in which you can take your exam.

31. What is the typical pass percentage of candidates trained from Fhyzics Business Consultants?

The typical pass percentage of candidates trained from Fhyzics is 96%.

32. May I know your classroom training details?

Fhyzics provide continuous 3-Days of classroom training from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday including lunch and refreshments.

33. What is certificate maintenance? How to maintain the certification?

Seventy-five points are required for certificate maintenance every 5 years.

34. How many points I need to secure to get recertified?

Seventy-five maintenance points are required for the APICS CPIM recertification. Points are awarded based on the following activity categories: 1. Education 2. Service

35. Is membership really required to appear in CPIM examination?

Yes, APICS International Plus Membership which valid for one-year is required to appear in CPIM examination.

36. Should I prepare any other material apart from learning system?

We believe that the best way to study for the CPIM Part-1 Exam is by using the Learning System. The Learning System covers the content of the ECM, organizing over 125 references into one, comprehensive, easy to-read source, and incorporates reinforcement tools to make sure you are mastering the content. However, candidates need to dedicate enough time to thoroughly review and utilize all the materials provided in the Learning System to be best prepared on exam day.

37. What is the teaching methodology?

Our CPIM faculty is very knowledgeable and well experienced on the topics of Production, operations and inventory which enabled him to provide practical exercises, examples, applications and illustrations on the course content which everyone could understand and relate to.

38. How many days of classroom training are provided?

3-Days of continuous class room training are provided from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

39. How many chapters would be covered in a day?

There are 10 Chapters in total. 3 to 4 chapters are covered in a day.

40. Should I bring lunch for Classroom training?

No you need not bring lunch for Classroom training. Lunch and refreshments will be provided by Fhyzics during Classroom training.

41. What is the classroom duration ?

The CPIM Part-1 class starts from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM and it’s a 3 days of continuous training on Friday, Saturday and Sunday including lunch and coffee breaks.

42. May I talk to the CPIM faculty?

Yes, you can schedule an appointment at Fhyzics website to talk with our CPIM faculty.

43. Is your faculty approved by APICS, USA?

Yes . He is certified and approved by APICS, USA as APICS Recognised Instructor in India.

44. May I know the faculty profile?

Venkadesh Narayanan in the Principal Consultant at Fhyzics and leads the supply chain consulting initiatives and EDPs. He has over 25 years of experience in end-to-end supply chain and also an APICS Recognised Instructor in India. Please click below for his complete profile.

45. Can you share some of the testimonials from the past students?

I just completed the training from Fhyzics and I am very thankful to the entire team for such a wonderful support in all the steps. The best part of the program is the classroom teaching. It not only helps you to understand the concepts very clearly, but also prepares you well for the examination.-Sivakumar S

I underwent the CLTD training program a month ago. The training I was superb with lots of individual attention to clarify my questions. Now my job is only to prepare for the examination as all other things are taken care by them. Thanks Fhyzics.- Dhamodharan N

I travelled all the way to Chennai to attend the program as I wanted to complete the program at the earliest. I made a wise decision as the training is simply superb! Kudos to the team Fhyzics for the exemplary support.-Aashish Agarwal

46. How Fhyzics will support me in achieving CPIM?

Fhyzics offers end-to-end support which includes APICS PLUS International Membership, APICS Dictionary, CPIM Part-1 Exam Content Manual, 3-days Intensive Classroom Training, CPIM Examination Credit and unlimited support through email or phone to clarify your questions for 6-months from the date of registration. Fhyzics provide preparation materials and pre-examination readiness assessment regarding CPIM preparation and supports you in achieving CPIM.

47. How long does the CPIM certification valid ?

Individual exam scores for CPIM Part 1 and Part 2 are valid for 3 years from the date the exam is taken. For example, the exam score from a CPIM Part 1 exam taken on April 10th, 2019 will expire on April 30th, 2022.

48. How many years work experience required for appearing in CPIM Part-1 examination?

Work experience is not required to appear for CPIM Part-1 examination.

49. How many CPIM certified are in the world?

More than 107,000 professionals in 107 countries have earned an APICS CPIM designation.

50. Will Fhyzics helps me in Placement assistance?

Yes. Fhyzics can assist you regarding placements.

51. Will Fhyzics provides placement guarantee?

No. Fhyzics does not guarantee you regarding placements.

52. What are the top 10 positions or job roles occupied by CPIMs?

Buyer/Planner
Product Planner
Material Manager
Supply Planner
Manager
Consultant
Supply Chain Analyst
Inventory Analyst
Demand Analyst
Supply Chain Manager

53. When will the results get published?

The results will be published immediately after the completion of the examination.

54. When will I receive the certificate ?

E-Certificate can be downloaded from APICS website and the first hard copy of the certificate is free on request.

55. How CPIM differ from CLTD?

The Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) certification provides you with the information you need to meet today’s supply chain logistics challenges.
Created by APICS with a team of subject matter experts, the CLTD designation covers a comprehensive body of knowledge that sets the global standard for best practices in logistics, transportation and distribution.

The APICS CPIM certification provides a common platform for individuals to evaluate their knowledge of production and inventory management. The APICS CPIM focuses primarily on manufacturing and provides an in-depth view of materials management, master scheduling, production planning, forecasting, and quality improvement within the confines of the operation.

56. How CPIM differ from CSCP?

The APICS CSCP certification takes a broader view, extending the APICS CPIM knowledge outside of a company's internal operations to encompass all of the steps throughout the supply chain—from suppliers through the company to the end consumer—and how to effectively manage the integration of these activities to maximize a company's value chain.

57. Countries that prefer CPIMs?

The countries that prefer CPIM in their designations are Australia, Canada, UK, US, Middle East countries, France, Germany, Singapore, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Sweden, Norway, Netherlands and Qatar.

58. I am in the process of getting a PR to Australia. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

For over 60 years, supply chain professionals and organizations have relied on APICS to deliver world-class certification. There are 45,000+ professional members in 100 countries and 100+ international channel partners in 46 countries. Therefore gaining international certification like CPIM will surely help you to get jobs quickly and an added advantage in countries like Australia.

59. I am in the process of getting a PR to Canada. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

60. I am in the process of getting a PR to UK. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

61. I am in the process of getting a PR to US. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

62. I am in the process of migrating to Middle East . How CPIM will be helpful to me?

63. I am in the process of migrating to France. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

64. I am in the process of migrating to Germany. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

65. I am in the process of migrating to Singapore. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

66. I am in the process of migrating to Sri Lanka. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

67. I am in the process of migrating to New Zealand. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

68. I am in the process of migrating to Sweden. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

69. I am in the process of migrating to Norway. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

70. I am in the process of migrating to Netherlands. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

71. I am in the process of migrating to Qatar. How CPIM will be helpful to me?

72. Can I meet the CPIM faculty in person?

Yes. In order to clarify your doubts regarding CPIM certification you can schedule a meeting with our CPIM faculty

Click here to schedule a meeting with our CPIM faculty

73. Can I meet the CPIM faculty at Chennai?

Yes. You can schedule your meeting with our CPIM faculty and have a detailed conversation at Chennai regarding your queries on CPIM certification.

Click here to schedule a meeting with our CPIM faculty

74. Can I meet the CPIM faculty at Bengaluru?

Yes. Please schedule your meeting with our CPIM faculty by checking his availability with our certifications manager and have a detailed conversation at Bengaluru regarding your queries on CPIM certification.

Click here to schedule a meeting with our CPIM faculty

75. Can I attend the CPIM Part-1 demo class at Chennai or Bengaluru?

Yes, you can attend the CPIM Part-1demo class at Chennai or Bangalore.

76. Can I connect with Fhyzics in LinkedIn?

Yes you can connect with Fhyzics in LinkedIn through ISCN group which is one of the largest groups of supply chain professionals in India.

Click here to join ISCN group

77. Can I connect with CPIM faculty in LinkedIn?

Yes you can connect with CPIM faculty in LinkedIn

Click here to connect with CSCP faculty in LinkedIn

78. Am I eligible to appear for CPIM Part 2 examination?

Yes, if you have passed CPIM Part-1 examination.

79. I have completed my Diploma in Mechanical Engineering . Can I appear for CPIM Part-2 examination?

No. In order to appear for CPIM Part-2 you should have passed CPIM Part-1 Examination.

80. How many modules are there in CPIM Part-2?

Four modules that reflect the most current APICS CPIM PART-2 body of knowledge.

81. How many chapters are there in CPIM Part-2?

There are 21 Chapters totalling approximately 1110 pages in CPIM Part-2.

Module-1: Strategic Management of Resources

Developing a Business Strategy, Gathering and Analyzing Internal/External Information, Where Will We Compete?, How Will We Compete?, Sustainability and Strategy, Business Planning, Aligning the Operations Strategy, Infrastructure.

Module-2: Master Planning of Resources

Demand Management, Sales and Operations Planning, Master Scheduling, Distribution Planning

Module-3: Detailed Scheduling and Planning

Inventory Management, Materials Requirement Planning, Managing Projects, Detailed Capacity Planning, Planning Procurement and External Sources of Supply.

Module-4: Execution and Control of Operations

Execution of Operations, Scheduling and Authorization, Quality, Communication and Continuous Improvement, Design Concepts and Trade-Offs.

82. Is CPIM Part-2 an objective type examination?

Yes. CPIM Part-2 examination has 150 objective type multiple choice questions.

83. How many questions are there in CPIM Part-2 examination?

84. How much I secure to pass CPIM Part -2 Examination?

The APICS CPIM Part-2 examination score range is from 200-350. A score of 300 or higher is required to pass the exam.

85. What is the duration of the CPIM Part-2 examination?

Candidates will be allowed 3.5 hours of test time.

86. How many options are there in the CPIM part-2 exam questions?

There are 4 options for each objective type questions.

87. What is the nature of CPIM Part-2 examination?

CPIM Part-2 is a computer based testing. Candidates should answer all exam questions and no negative marks for wrong answers.

88. Can I prepare for CPIM Part-2 without learning system?

Yes, but to appear for CPIM Part-2 examination, learning system and APICS membership are mandatory.

89. How many books are there in the learning system?

Four module books reflect the most current APICS CPIM Part-2 body of knowledge which includes 21-chapters.

90. How many hours should I spend in a day for CPIM Part-2 preparation?

On an average you should spend 2 hours in a day for CPIM Part-2 preparation.

91. I am not an extraordinary student in my academics will I be able to pass CPIM Part-2?

Yes, absolutely. It’s not necessary to be a class topper for passing CPIM Part-2 but to have some practical understanding about the subjects .

92. What is the duration of the CPIM Part-2 examination?

Candidates will be allowed 3.5 hours of test time.

93. How many options are there in the CPIM part-2 exam questions?

There are 4 options for each objective type questions.

94. What should I carry to the CPIM examination centre?

Candidates must bring a valid primary identification, bearing a future expiration date that includes a recent photograph and signature:

Driver’s license (except in China)
Passport
Military ID
State ID
Company ID (except in China)
They also must bring a valid secondary identification that includes their signature:
Credit card
Check cashing card
Citizenship card
Another ID from the primary list.

95. How Fhyzics will support me in achieving CPIM?

Fhyzics offers end-to-end support which includes APICS PLUS International Membership, APICS Dictionary, CPIM Part-2 Exam Content Manual, 3-days Intensive Classroom Training, CPIM Examination Credit and unlimited support through email or phone to clarify your questions for 6-months from the date of registration. Fhyzics provide preparation materials and pre-examination readiness assessment regarding CPIM preparation and supports you in achieving CPIM.

96. How many years work experience required for appearing in CPIM Part-2 examination?

Work experience is not required to appear for CPIM Part-2 examination.

97. Should I prepare any other material apart from learning system?

We believe that the best way to study for the CPIM Part-2 Exam is by using the Learning System. The Learning System covers the content of the ECM, organizing over 125 references into one, comprehensive, easy to-read source, and incorporates reinforcement tools to make sure you are mastering the content. However, candidates need to dedicate enough time to thoroughly review and utilize all the materials provided in the Learning System to be best prepared on exam day.

98. What is the classroom duration ?

The CPIM Part-2 class starts from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM and it’s a 5 days of training on Friday, Saturday and Sunday over 2 months including lunch and coffee breaks.

99. Can I attend the CPIM Part-2 demo class at Chennai or Bengaluru?

Yes, you can attend the CPIM Part-2 demo class at Chennai or Bangalore.