Certification Process:
Frequently Asked Questions
CDFO Certification Process: Frequently Asked Questions
The information below is intended to clarify common concerns. The information contained herein is subject to revision.
Time to Recertify?
The Facts:
● Certification wasn’t “easy” – don’t let it expire.
● Recertification is required each year to maintain your designation.
● It’s now even easier to renew online with your membership renewal.
The Rewards:
● Recertification demonstrates your commitment to the design profession and continued mastery of operations in the A|E|C industry.
● Many firms desire a CDFO certification when making hiring decisions.
● And, as one SDA member stated, “…each time I recertify, I have that same sense of personal achievement and satisfaction that I received when I first became certified.”
Click here to access our recording “Steps to Obtaining your Certificate in Design Firm Operations.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Certificate in Design Firm Operations (CDFO)?
2. Why CDFO Certification?
3. Who can become certified?
4. How does one become certified?
5. What must I do to become CDFO certified?
6. How much does it cost to become CDFO certified?
7. What is required to accomplish my CDFO?
8. What if I am interested in taking the examination?
9. Why do I have to have a certain number of years of experience? If I can pass the test, what difference does the amount of experience make?
10. How long does my CDFO designation last?
11. What happens if I don’t pass the examination?
12. Once I become certified, if I leave my company or industry, may I use the CDFO designation?
13. How does becoming certified benefit me?
14. How does becoming certified benefit my employer/firm?
15. How often do I have to renew?
16. Could you give me details on how recertification works?
17. Do you have to meet a minimum number of continuing education units for each focus area?
18. What types of programs meet the continuing education requirements?
What is the Certificate in Design Firm Operations (CDFO)?
As the design services industry becomes more diverse and competitive, the need for business professionals accomplished in the A|E|C industry has never been greater. Whether you have worked your way up through the ranks of design firm operations or crossed over from another industry, you know that every business professional in the A|E|C industry must demonstrate a certain level of expertise in each of the six business areas of a design firm (focus areas). These are operations, finance, human resources, project management, marketing, and leadership. For most, the quest to be proficient in their jobs while building credentials for the future is a lifelong journey.
For more than 60 years, SDA has provided a variety of avenues to assist business personnel with their professional growth. In addition, SDA offers the opportunity for individuals to add to their credentials by obtaining a Certificate in Design Firm Operations (CDFO). The CDFO certification program allows qualified design firm personnel to demonstrate, through an examination process, a mastery of an A|E|C firm’s core business areas essential to the effective running of the firm. Regardless of the stage you are in within your career, obtaining this certification adds a valuable dimension to your professional development. This achievement will instill greater confidence in your abilities and identify you as essential to any A|E|C business team, someone who understands the unique issues inherent in a design firm.
Why CDFO accreditation?
SDA developed the Certificate in Design Firm Operations (CDFO) program to provide design firm business personnel an opportunity to demonstrate a command of the core areas of knowledge identified as essential to the effective performance of a design firm’s operations. This accreditation recognizes education, work experience, and the mastery of a body of A|E|C operations knowledge evidenced by passing a comprehensive examination in the focus areas. No other organization addresses the initial and continuing education of business personnel in the A|E|C industry, which is critical in obtaining successful design commissions and maintaining profitability, employee engagement, effective project management, and an acceptable level of risk management.
Who can become certified?
There are four elements to the CDFO certification:
1) Years of experience,
2) Educational prerequisites,
3) Successful completion of a 120-question exam, and
4) Acceptance of the SDA Code of Ethics.
The education and experience components are as follows:
● High School Diploma or equivalent plus 3 years of experience in the design industry
● Associate Degree plus 2 years of experience in the design industry
● Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree plus one year of experience in the design industry
The certification process is designed to be a fair and rigorous assessment. This program strategy is the most suitable to ensure successful candidates have the requisite knowledge and skills.
The exam cost includes a one-year membership in SDA at the member-at-large rate. SDA membership is not required, but a $50 CDFO renewal will be charged to non-SDA members (after their year of membership ends) and incur an annual continuing education audit.
How does one become certified?
Upon deciding to pursue certification, an individual submits the CDFO application and the appropriate fees, including the election of an exam period, to SDA Headquarters. Exam Dates coincide with EDS in the Spring and EDC in the Fall. The candidate should make every effort to sit for the exam during the selected period. Timing is essential in the certification path. After the application is approved, candidates should be prepared to sit for the exam during the time period chosen. SDA HQ may consider a request for an extension beyond this deadline for extreme extenuating circumstances. Submit the request in writing and before the exam window deadline. After the first exam sitting, the candidate has 12 months to re-sit for the exam without any additional fee. See “What Happens if I Don’t Pass the Exam” below for further information.
Upon acceptance and payment of the fees, SDA HQ will send the candidate an electronic version of the exam resource guide to prepare for the closed book, six-section exam. The exam comprises 120 multiple-choice questions, primarily based on the provided Resource Guide and PowerPoint training materials.
SDA gives the test at a designated time and place during each spring SDA EDSymposium month (May/June). A candidate may also take a proctored exam during designated testing session timeframes preceding the annual EDSymposium and EDConnect conferences. Proctored exams can be administered in person by another CDFA/CDFO-accredited individual in areas with an SDA chapter. In areas with no chapter, an approved Principal in the candidate’s design firm may administer the exam after SDA HQ approval.
A candidate must achieve a minimum score of 75 percent to pass.
The candidate is allowed one (1) re-test at no cost during a 12–month testing window, which commences on the date of the initial exam, in the candidate’s location, and with a proctor in attendance. Additional testing is allowable within the same testing window with an administrative fee (currently $25) per retake.
What must I do to become CDFO certified?
To receive a CDFO certificate, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements stated above, pass the certification examination given by the SDA, and sign a pledge to abide by the SDA Code of Ethics. Design firm business personnel in Canada and other countries are eligible for certification but must realize that major portions of the examination are based on U.S. federal law.
How much does it cost to receive a Certificate in Design Firm Operations?
The application fee for SDA members is $75 and $150 for nonmembers. The examination fee for SDA members is $250 and $425 for nonmembers, a total of $325 for members and $575 for nonmembers. The examination fee includes an electronic version of the CDFO Resource Guide and a year’s SDA membership for nonmembers.
What if I am interested in taking the examination?
Contact SDA Headquarters at 513-268-5302.
Or download the application here.
Why do I have to have a certain number of years of experience? If I can pass the test, what difference does the amount of experience make?
The certification program validates mastery of a set of competencies. Business personnel have to have a depth and breadth of knowledge and skills to be conversant in the practice management of an A|E|C firm. Some of these skills are achieved only through work experience in the design industry.
How long does my CDFO designation last?
You will be designated a CDFO upon meeting all the required criteria explained in the application. After that time, you will recertify each year by completing and documenting 18 hours of continuing education and remitting the annual CDFO renewal fee.
What happens if I don’t pass the examination?
You will be allowed to retake the examination once within twelve months from the date of the initial exam in your city, with a designated proctor, without incurring any additional fees. If you do not pass the examination a second time and enroll to retake the exam within 3-months of your first re-test date, you may re-test for a fee of $25. If you do not enroll and pay the re-test administration fee within three months of your initial re-test date, an additional re-test will be charged the full exam fee (currently $250 for members and $425 for nonmembers) with re-tests, as stated above.
Once I become certified, if I leave my company or industry, may I use the CDFO designation?
Yes, but you will pay a higher renewal fee and must complete a compulsory annual audit of your continuing education requirements.
How does becoming certified benefit me?
Overall, certification acknowledges outstanding achievement and provides greater career satisfaction and improved firm performance. Obtaining a Certificate in Design Firm Operations (CDFO) is a tangible measure of competence and a testimony to others of a commitment to the A|E|C profession. Becoming certified in design firm operations offers several benefits:
- Enhanced Knowledge and Skills. Certification programs provide comprehensive training in the best practices of design firm operations, covering topics such as project management, financial management, marketing, human resources, and leadership. The learning needed to obtain your certificate enhances your expertise and makes you more effective in your role.
- Credibility and Recognition. A certification demonstrates a high level of proficiency and commitment to the field, earning you respect and recognition from peers, employers, and clients. It can set you apart as a knowledgeable and dedicated professional.
- Career Advancement. With a certification, you are better positioned for promotions and leadership roles within your firm. It can also open up new career opportunities, as employers often prefer or require certified professionals for certain positions.
- Networking Opportunities. The CDFO program includes membership in SDA and access to a network of other certified professionals. They provide valuable opportunities for networking, mentorship, and sharing best practices.
- Continuous Learning and Development. SDA requires ongoing CEUs to maintain certification. These ensure that you stay up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the industry.
How does becoming certified benefit my employer/firm?
Becoming certified in design firm operations benefits your firm in several significant ways:
- Enhanced Expertise and Efficiency. Certified professionals bring advanced knowledge and skills to the firm, leading to more efficient operations and better project management. This results in cost savings, timely project completions, and higher-quality outputs.
- Competitive Advantage. Firms with certified professionals can differentiate themselves from competitors. Clients often prefer firms that demonstrate a commitment to professional development and industry best practices, giving your firm a competitive edge.
- Improved Client Satisfaction. CDFO professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to handle client projects more effectively. This leads to higher client satisfaction, repeat business, and positive referrals, which are crucial for long-term success.
- Stronger Financial Performance. Efficient operations and successful project management contribute to better financial performance. CDFO professionals can help optimize resource allocation, reduce waste, and improve profitability, benefiting the firm’s bottom line.
- Enhanced Employee Development and Retention. Supporting employees in obtaining certification boosts morale, job satisfaction, and loyalty. This investment in professional development fosters a culture of continuous improvement and can help retain top business talent.
- Compliance and Risk Management. The CDFO Certification program includes training on regulatory compliance and risk management. This ensures that the firm adheres to industry regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues and financial penalties.
- Innovation and Best Practices: CDFO professionals are exposed to the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the A|E|C industry. They bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the firm, driving continuous improvement and growth initially through the exam and then with continuing education opportunities.
- Networking and Partnerships: SDA members gain access to a network of industry experts and peers. This leads to valuable partnerships, collaborations, and opportunities for the firm to expand its reach and influence.
Overall, having CDFO professionals in design firm operations can lead to improved operational efficiency, more effective project management practices, and stronger financial performance, ultimately contributing to the firm’s long-term success and growth.
How often do I have to renew?
Certified members renew with their membership renewal. If you retire from the industry as an SDA Emeritus, you may keep your CDFO designation with no continuing education requirement. Upon departure from the profession to work in another industry, you may keep the designation only if you fulfill the continuing education requirement of 18 hours annually and pay the annual renewal fee.
Could you give me details on how recertification works?
To maintain the CDFO certification designation, a member must affirm completion of the required continuing education hours every year as part of their membership renewal.
As a current certified member, when you complete your SDA membership renewal application, check the corresponding box on the form. The annual recertification cost is $35, submitted with your membership dues. By checking the box, you affirm that you have met the 18-hour continuing education requirement for the previous calendar year.
Each year, the SDA Certification Committee audits 15% of recertifying individuals selected at random. An audit consists of a request by the SDA Certification Committee of the member to submit a list of the courses taken, the provider’s name, dates attended, number of course hours, and the certificate of attendance. Members may upload their attendance certificates to the Professional Development tab of the Member Profile. Nonmembers will submit a zip file of their certificates.
Continuing education hours may be submitted for approval and tracking throughout the year by uploading a proof of attendance to the Professional Development tab of your member profile on the SDA National website each time. SDA recommends that members update their continuing education transcript regularly to facilitate the audit process.
This audit may be conducted up to three years after the year to be audited. Retain all documentation for three years.
Do you have to meet a minimum number of continuing education units for each focus area?
Yes. You must complete at least one continuing education unit (or one hour) in each focus area (Finance, Human Resources, Marketing, Operations, Project Management, and Leadership).
Do product-related units meet the continuing education requirement?
Product-only educational opportunities, including “Lunch n’ Learns” may be used for up to six CEUs annually. Providers must meet the requirements listed below.
What types of programs meet the continuing education requirements?
Any educational program that is certified by one of the A|E|C affiliate organizations of SDA (such as AIA, ACEC, AGC, SMPS, to name a few) will be accepted, as well as educational seminars and programs offered by any learning institution like LinkedIn, Stambaugh Ness, Deltek, Quickbooks, or universities. Other professional organizations specializing in one of the focus areas are also acceptable (e.g., accounting societies such as NASBA, AICPA, IMA, or business societies such as the American Management Association [AMA]). Also, vendors who are AIA CES providers and provide AIA-approved programs are acceptable. You must keep backup documentation to prove your attendance in case of audit. This backup includes documentation such as sign-in sheets or certificates of attendance. Only proof of payment/registration details will not be sufficient proof.
Pre-recorded webinars from providers listed above are accepted for credit provided the following requirements are met:
1) For SDA-provided webinars, the attendee must pass a short quiz at the end of the webinar (if available). or
2) If no quiz is available and for other organizations, the attendee must write a two- to three-paragraph synopsis of the webinar’s content describing how the attendee will utilize this new information and post it to the member Professional Development tab on their profile in place of the certificate for review and approval. This paragraph must not simply re-phrase the webinar description.
Continuing Education Units from Authorship. Units may be obtained from the authorship of a white paper/industry-related article following publication. One CEU hour is given per publication. Recognition/application of credit expires at the end of the calendar year and shall not exceed four credits per calendar year.
Continuing Education Units for Presenters. A 1.5 to 1.0 continuing education unit ratio will be available to Presenters. The presentation shall be based on one of the six SDA focus areas. The sign-in/attendance sheet must be submitted to obtain Presenter credit, and the individual must be identified as Presenter. Recognition/application of credit expires at the end of the calendar year and shall not exceed four credits per calendar year.
