The case for certification of the innovation professional

Purpose - This paper aims to focus on the creation of a certification in the science of innovation. Design/methodology/approach - Polidoro (2013) states that "Certifications are relevant social cues that assist decision making under uncertainty". When an employer wants to know if a potential candidate has the necessary competencies and knowledge to perform a set of tasks, they often look to education, experience, certificates and/or certifications. When the experience and education of two or more candidates are similar, the presence or absence of a certificate or certification can make a difference about who will be hired (Carter, 2005). Certification in the science of innovation will assist employers in reducing uncertainty in the hiring process and in the professional development of those who focus on the tasks, goals and processes of innovation. Findings - This paper begins with a definition and explanation of certification and then presents a framework for the science of innovation. A review of the body of knowledge is presented in the International Association of Innovation Professionals (IAOIP) Global Innovation Science Handbook, 1st Ed (Gupta and Trusko, 2013). Originality/value - From this, the IAOIP certification program is presented with an explanation of the founding principles and the reasoning for the current framework. This paper ends with describing the current status of the IAOIP program and areas for future development.