What are its goals and objectives?

Organized in 1957, APICS is an educational and professional
development society; a leader in exploring and developing theories,
systems and philosophies to increase productivity while maintaining
and improving quality.

What are the membership benefits?

Education is key to succeeding in this highly competitive
environment, and APICS is the most comprehensive resource available
to provide this education.  APICS has more than 70,000 members
responsible for resource management.

For more than 35 years, APICS has offered manufacturing and other
professionals state-of-the-art information on the latest business
management concepts and practices.

As an APICS member, YOU will benefit from:
Professional publications, including the monthly P&IM Review
with APICS News, and the quarterly P&IM Journal
Discounts on more than 250 books written by industry experts
International certification programs providing you with
immediate recognition in the field.  Members enjoy drastically
reduced exam fees
Leading-edge education in the evolving practices and theories
of the profession
Specific Industry Groups (SIGS), tailored to provide
information, educational programs, and networking
opportunities for your specific industry
Employment referral service saves your company valuable
recruiting dollars and gives you first chance at desirable
jobs
Networking opportunities with your peers
And much more!

APICS offer certification program similar to CPA in accounting?


APICS Certificate Programs

Introduction

         There are two certification exams offered by APICS:  Certified
         in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) and Certified in
         Integrated Resource Management (CIRM).  CPIM program is for
         testing competence in production and inventory control; and
         CIRM tests knowledge in market and product functions,
         logistics, manufacturing processes, support functions, and
         integrated manufacturing management.

Certificate in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
         Introduced in 1973, Certified in Production and Inventory
         Management (CPIM) is recognized as a standard of excellence in
         the business of manufacturing.  CPIM provides professionals
         with in-depth, specialized knowledge of production and
         inventory control.  To date, more than 50,000 professionals
         have earned the CPIM designation.

CPIM Benefit You with
          Increased ability to predict outcomes and apply
          methods that achieve results
          Enhanced technical knowledge and expertise
          Professional credibility and recognition as a valued
          resource
          Flexibility to study for and take exams at your own
          pace

CPIM Benefits Your Organization with
           Increased productivity, profitability, and
           competitiveness
            More knowledgeable employees with superior problem-
            solving skills
            A cost-effective curriculum for employee education

Certificate in Integrated Resource Management (CIRM)
         The Certified in Integrated Resource Management (CIRM)
         program, introduced in 1991, provides individuals with cross-
         functional knowledge of interrelated functions within an
         organization.  To date, more than 1,000 professionals have
         earned the CIRM designation.

CIRM Benefits You with
           The knowledge to predict potential outcomes
           successfully
           The confidence to take actions required for efficient
           business operations
           An understanding of diverse business functions and how
           they interrelate
           An enhanced ability to respond to change and assume
           greater responsibility
           The opportunity to learn at your own pace and within
            your own schedule

CIRM Benefits Your Organization with
           Knowledgeable employees who can make sound decisions
           because they understand the interrelationships of key
           business functions
           Greater productivity and profitability
           A cost-effective curriculum for employee education
                                                                   
Taken from APICS 1995 Certificate Bulletin