CPIM Exam Modules

The CPIM designation is awarded upon successful completion of exams covering the following five modules.

Basics of Supply Chain Management

Completely updated for 2009. The basic concepts in managing the complete flow of materials in a supply chain from suppliers to customers are covered in the Basics module. Supply chain concepts are introduced and basic terminology emphasized, as are relationships among activities in the supply chain.

  • Introduction to Supply Chain Management
  • Demand Management and Forecasting Techniques
  • Priority and capacity planning at the Master Planning, MRP and PAC levels
  • Aggregate and Item Inventory Management
  • Purchasing and Physical Distribution
  • Lean/JIT, Quality Systems and Theory of Constraints

Master Planning of Resources

Explore the processes used to develop sales and operations plans and identify and assess internal and external demand and forecasting requirements. The course focuses on the importance of producing achievable master schedules that are consistent with business policies, objectives, and resource constraints. Topics include:

  • Demand Management
  • Sales and Operations Planning
  • Master Scheduling
  • Measuring Business Performance.

Detailed Scheduling and Planning

Focus on the various techniques for material and capacity scheduling. Study detailed descriptions of material requirements planning (MRP), capacity requirements planning (CRP), inventory management practices, and procurement and supplier planning. Topics include:

  • Recognizing Techniques and Practices of Inventory Management
  • Mechanics of the Detailed Material Planning Process
  • Planning Operations to Support the Priority Plan
  • Planning Procurement and External Sources of Supply.

Execution and Control of Operations

Focus on the areas of prioritizing and sequencing work, executing work plans and implementing controls, reporting activity results, and providing feedback on performance. The course explains techniques for scheduling and controlling production processes, the execution of quality initiatives and continuous improvement plans, and the control and handling of inventories. Topics include:

  • Prioritizing and Sequencing Work
  • Executing Plans and Implementing Controls
  • Authorizing and Reporting Activities for Push and Pull Systems
  • Evaluating Performance and Providing Feedback.

Strategic Management of Resources

Explore the relationship of existing and emerging processes and technologies to manufacturing strategy and supply chain-related functions. The course addresses three main topics: aligning resources with the strategic plan, configuring and integrating operating processes to support the strategic plan, and implementing change. Topics include:

  • Competitive Market Issues
  • Choices Affecting Facilities, Supply Chain, Information Technology, and Organizational Design
  • Configuring and Integrating Internal Processes
  • Evaluating and Managing Projects.