The mark of excellence for a professional certification program is the value and recognition it bestows on the individual who achieves it. Since 1978, the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) program, sponsored by ISACA®, has been the globally accepted standard of achievement among information systems (IS) audit, control and security professionals.
The technical skills and practices that CISA promotes and evaluates are the building blocks of success in the field. Possessing the CISA designation demonstrates proficiency and is the basis for measurement in the profession. With a growing demand for professionals possessing IS audit, control and security skills, CISA has become a preferred certification program by individuals and organizations around the world. CISA certification signifies commitment to serving an organization and the IS audit, control and security industry with distinction. In addition, it presents a number of professional and personal benefits.
"Boards and executives are increasingly realizing that their information technology deserves a high level of governance to minimize risks and add value, and they are looking for prospective employees with the experience and credentials to help them attain strong governance." said Lynn Lawton, CISA, FCA, FIIA, PIIA, FBCS CITP, international president of ISACA.
Business managers can rely on a certification program such as CISA to help them identify qualified staff. By encouraging professionals to understand the business objectives of their organization and learn how IS can support and add value to overall goals, CISA fulfills the needs of many organizations around the world.
Both company and employee benefits from CISA certification. According to Ross E. Wescott, CISA, CIA, CCP, senior IS audit specialist for NW Natural, Portland, Oregon, USA, "The CISA designation indicates a certain level of competence. It signifies personal growth, achievement, career progress, initiative and professional knowledge. Companies are increasingly requiring CISA as well as CPA and CIA when filling top internal auditing positions.
"Everybody wins with continuing education and certification," added Weston. "Employees gain respect and their employers gain assurance that their staff has the practical knowledge to asses technology risk and control."
