Competitive Intelligence Education and Training Key Terms

Understanding key terminology in the world of competitive intelligence education and training

It's nearly impossible to establish or run a successful business if you don't understand who your competitors are. Additionally, you should have a working knowledge about other companies you do business with that are vital to your success, like distributors and suppliers. Competitive intelligence is the vehicle to get you that information, and if you're not familiar with the concept, you should look for training and education opportunities to get you on your way.

Understanding the key terms involved with competitive intelligence education and training will make your search for courses and programs more effective and more efficient. This guide includes definitions to six key terms: competitive intelligence, ACI, CIP certification, IACET, SCIP and war game.

 

Competitive Intelligence

Competitive Intelligence (CI) refers to the legal and ethical practice of collecting, analyzing and sharing information about companies another company does business with. This is for business planning and decision-making purposes. A company can collect and use competitive intelligence about its direct competitors, customers, suppliers, distributors, potential competitors and more.
Try: Get a better grip on the concept of competitive intelligence and its potential in the article from Aurora WDC, a company offering primary research, competitive analysis, software and systems, intelligence training and process consulting.

ACI

The core focus of the Fuld-Gilad-Herring Academy of Competitive Intelligence (ACI), an education and training institution, is to train managers, senior executives and other professionals to manage business risks more effectively and anticipate new business opportunities through competitive intelligence. ACI originated in 1999 with the merger of two competitive intelligence companies, Gilad-Herring ACI and Fuld & Company, a training organization.
Try: Learn more about ACI from one of the academy's co-founders, Fuld & Company.

CIP certification

Competitive Intelligence Professional (CIP) certification refers to the professional program designed and conducted by ACI's top educators and thinkers. ACI is the only educational institution offering an accredited CIP certificate program that grants continuing education units in business or competitive intelligence. Earning the certification requires completion of nine formal courses, completion of a written exam and at least a 75% average.
Try: Get all the details you need on the CIP Certificate Program at the ACI website.

IACET

IACET stands for the International Association for Continuing Education and Training. This non-profit organization certifies continuing education and training institutions and providers that adhere to strict guidelines. The guidelines, called ANSI/IACET 1-2007 Standard, encompass all aspects of a school's program, including program design, development and delivery processes. When looking for qualified, legitimate competitive intelligence education and training, you won't go wrong with a training provider that's labeled as an IACET Authorized Provider (AP).
Try: Get more information on IACET Authorized Provider status at the IACET website.

SCIP

SCIP is the acronym for the Society of Competitive Intelligence Professionals, a global organization that has committed to leadership, education, networking and advocacy in the realm of CI since 1986.
Try: Find out about upcoming CI training and educational events at the SCIP website.

War game

A war game is traditionally a simulated military exercise used to train military members. With regard to competitive intelligence, a war game is a fun, intriguing and challenging way for business leaders and professionals to learn about and apply CI tools and strategies in a non-threatening environment.
Try: Learn more about business war games and how playing them can ultimately help your business from Ben Gilad's Business War Games.

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