In order to enhance service and maximize efficiency, top management now looks to a new breed of professional mail managers. These managers need to possess knowledge of advanced mail distribution technology, and professional management and administrative skills.

To recognize these professional managers, the Mail Systems Management Association, in conjunction with an outside consulting firm, has instituted the Certified Mail and Distribution Systems Manager ("CMDSM") program. This accreditation process provides for an individual to be evaluated, tested, and certified on the body of technical knowledge and management skills necessary for performance in the profession.


The objective of the Accreditation and Certification Program are:

1.  to raise the standards of the profession;

2.  to establish for employers, as well as people in the profession, a defined body of
     knowledge for effective performance in the profession;

3.  to establish guidelines for achievement, a learning and experience path for people
     to follow in developing their career in the profession ;

4.  to award recognition to those who have demonstrated a high level of competence
     and ethical fitness for the profession; and to improve the performance in the
     profession by encouraging participation in a continuing program of professional
     development.

Today there are over 200 CMDSM accredited professionals in the mail system management profession. The program covers the job categories of:

   a.  Mail Services Management, e.g. Manager or Supervisor;
   b.  Distribution, Messenger, Shipping, Receiving or Fulfillment Manager or
        Supervisor;
   c.  Administrative, Office Services, or Facilities Manager with responsibility for Mail
        and other Distribution System; and
   d.  Vendor or consultant, serving the equipment supply or service needs of the
        mail.

To qualify, an individual must be currently employed in the field for

   a.  5 or more years, with at least 3 years in management; or

   b.  3 years in mail management and 2 years as a member of MSMA (can be
        concurrent), and provide a letter of recommendation from an employer or a
        recognized professional in management.

A candidate does not have to be a member of the MSMA to participate in the program, although the non-member certification fee does provide for one-year, individual MSMA membership. However, membership does not automatically mean you are certified or lower the requirements.


Questions and Answers about the Program
How do I become certified ?

The certification process is two-pronged, including the successful completion of an examination and the accumulation of "Management Expertise Points." Management Expertise points are earned by participation in both MSMA and non MSMA activities such as attending meetings, serving on professional committees and boards, hosting tours, speaking at conferences, and publishing articles.

When a qualified individual has met the required number of Management Expertise Credits, they may submit an application for certification. Upon approval, the applicant may sit for the next scheduled certification examination. The exam entails approximately 150 short answer and essay questions covering the full range of mail and distribution system management.

What does it mean to be a CMDSM ?

An individual awarded the CMDSM has demonstrated professional development through participation in education conferences, seminars, and meetings. That individual also has a proven knowledge of the technical, management and administrative skills necessary for a high level of professionalism in the field.

How much does it cost ?

The fee for certification is $225 for MSMA members and $400 for non-members. Non-members receive one year individual MSMA membership. This fee covers processing costs, examination expenses for administration and scoring, and the issuance of certification awards.


For more information on the certification process and the necessary qualifications, call 800/95 5 -MSMA.

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Mail Systems Management Association
Delaware Valley Chapter
P.O. Box 41809
Philadelphia, PA 19101