Upgrading to iMIS and Strengthening My Skills
I have spent most of my career working with associations, gaining experience in event management, membership, and certification. I began using iMIS early in my career and have continued using it in every association role since then.
Several years ago, Advanced Solutions International (ASI), the developer of iMIS, launched a certification program with three levels: User, Administrator, and Professional. At first, I wasn’t very interested in becoming certified for software I had used for more than 20 years. Having managed certification programs myself, I also knew the ongoing maintenance could be time-consuming.
When I joined Capital Association Management (CAM), we were using an older version of iMIS. Within the first year, we upgraded to the 2017 version and planned to move to the EMS platform. CAM also invested in the iMIS Learning Hub to help staff learn new features. Because I was responsible for the database, I started taking online classes that matched the version we used.
As we prepared for the EMS upgrade, I used the Learning Hub again to understand the platform’s new tools. The EMS version shared many similarities with iMIS 2017 but included useful enhancements. Some modules were new to me, and others weren’t part of our daily operations. Since our service provider manages areas like web design and page development, I wasn’t sure if I needed hands-on experience in every module. Still, I wanted to expand my skills to better support our clients and their membership systems.
Earning the Certified iMIS User Credential
Eventually, I decided to enroll in the Certified iMIS User program. The certification includes 11 required online modules and a final exam. Participants have 365 days to finish, but I completed all the classes in two weeks. Each module lasts about 30 to 45 minutes and ends with a short exam you must pass before moving on.
Even though much of the material was familiar, each class taught me something new. I discovered better ways to complete daily tasks and gained a deeper understanding of the RiSE tools and site-building features. These lessons have already helped me make small but meaningful improvements in our database processes.
When I reached the final exam, I felt nervous about topics I hadn’t used in a while. The test included 40 questions to complete in 60 minutes, and you need at least 80 percent to pass. On my first attempt, I missed the passing score by one question. I reviewed the areas I struggled with, studied the help guides, and tried again a few days later. The second time, I scored 39 out of 40 and earned my Certified iMIS User credential.
Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead
Completing the certification was a rewarding experience. It gave me a stronger understanding of iMIS and how its features can support both membership and certification programs. I now see what a certification process feels like from the participant’s side, not just the administrator’s perspective.
I’ve since enrolled in the certification maintenance program, which includes several classes I already planned to take. One of them was even credited automatically from my previous coursework.
As for what’s next, I’m considering the Certified iMIS Administrator program in the future. Continuous learning not only strengthens my own skills but also ensures our team at CAM continues to provide the best service and support for every client we serve.
At Capital Association Management (CAM), we help associations grow stronger through expert membership management and accreditation support. Our team focuses on building loyal, engaged member communities while guiding clients through accreditation and certification processes that enhance credibility and industry recognition.
This article was written by Valerie Shuford, Membership, Accreditation, & Certification Specialist at Capital Association Management (CAM).
