About Certification



SDP Certification

SDP Certification is the Society of Decision Professionals’ foundational credential for demonstrating the ability to apply structured decision-making to real-world decisions. It validates practical capability across the core elements of decision excellence, provides a recognized benchmark for individuals and organizations, and creates a pathway for continued professional growth. 

Certification is included with SDP membership at no additional cost and is offered at four levels—Associate, Practitioner, Lead Practitioner, and Fellow—each reflecting a rigorous, standardized assessment of competency and experience. To maintain your SDP certification, you must maintain an active SDP membership.


Get Started Today!

Why Get Certified

SDP Certification is more than a credential — it's a way to demonstrate that you can apply decision excellence principles to real decisions with real consequences. It validates your expertise, strengthens your professional credibility, and gives employers and clients an independent benchmark for your decision-making capabilities. Whether you're looking to advance your career, strengthen your practice, or demonstrate your commitment to decision excellence, SDP Certification is a recognized signal that you can be trusted with the decisions that matter most. And because certification is included with SDP membership, there's no additional fee.

SDP Certification Career Ladder

There are four levels within SDP’s certification career ladder. To learn more about the criteria and requirements for each level, click LEARN MORE on the corresponding image below.

Learn More

Learn More

Learn More

Learn More

The levels are described across the following key areas:

Ready to Get Started?

Learn about the requirements, application details, and steps to become an SDP Certified Decision Professional.

Certification Application Page



Certification Council

The Certification Council administers the current process, implements process improvements, and  explores how the certification benefit can support the strategic goals of SDP.

Brian Putt

Council Chair

Contact

Mark Di Giovanna

Contact

Julie Kickham

Contact

Leslie Lippard

Contact

David Skinner

Contact

Peter Wood

Contact

Jeremy Walker

Contact