Exam Details:
The APICS CPIM-SMR (Certified in Production and Inventory Management - Strategic Management of Resources) exam is designed to test candidates' knowledge and understanding of strategic management concepts and their application in production and inventory management. The exam is administered by APICS, the Association for Supply Chain Management.
The cost of the CPIM-SMR exam varies depending on your location, but typically ranges from $630 to $875. The passing mark for the exam is 300 out of a possible 400 points. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and candidates have 3.5 hours to complete it. The exam is delivered through Pearson VUE testing centers, and candidates can take the exam in-person or online.
Exam Objectives:
The CPIM-SMR exam covers a range of topics related to strategic management of resources, including:
- Developing a Business Strategy
- Competitive Market Issues
- Strategic Marketing and Product Lifecycle Management
- Financial Analysis
- Market Demand
- Creating a Strategic Plan
- Supply Chain Strategy
- Operations Strategy
- Implementation and Execution of Strategic Plans
- Organizational Design and Performance Measurement
Related Books:
APICS recommends several books for candidates preparing for the CPIM-SMR exam. These include:
- "Strategic Management of Resources" by David J. Lightfoot and William H. Lasher
- "Competing for Advantage" by Robert E. Hoskisson, Michael A. Hitt, and R. Duane Ireland
- "Operations and Supply Chain Management" by F. Robert Jacobs and Richard B. Chase
- "Marketing Management" by Philip Kotler and Kevin Lane Keller
- "Fundamentals of Financial Management" by Eugene F. Brigham and Joel F. Houston
- "Performance Measurement and Management Control" by Hanne Nørreklit, Morten Jakobsen, and Flemming Poulfelt
To pass the CPIM-SMR exam, candidates should focus on developing a strong understanding of the key concepts covered in the exam objectives. They should review the related books and other study materials provided by APICS, and consider taking a CPIM-SMR review course to help prepare for the exam. Candidates should also practice answering multiple-choice questions and work on their time management skills to ensure they can complete the exam within the allotted time frame.