Canadian Information Processing Society

Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) is the professional association that aims at continuously advancing the information technology (IT) field, while representing the interests of information technology professionals across Canada.

CIPS belief is that the professional foundation starts with students at universities and colleges as well as earlier levels of education; for this reason, it also has partnered with high schools. For this purpose, the association accredits IT related programs across Canada, ensuring compliance with the internationally accepted standard that defines the knowledge elements that are part of IT field.

The association also recognizes information technology practitioners that have either met or exceeded the eligibility criteria required to be recipient of the Information Systems Professional (I.S.P.) designation, the only one of its class recognized in Canada by Act of Parliament. CIPS is also accredited to award the internationally recognized Information Technology Certified Professional (ITCP) designation to seasoned professionals that demonstrate that, in addition to their IT knowledge, understand how to effectively utilize and apply their organizational experience to achieving organizational excellence.

CIPS recently implemented a new designation for graduates from CIPS accredited programs. The Associate Information Technology Professional (AITP) designation identifies the recipient as an individual that is working toward the achievement of the I.S.P. designation, while providing an early exposure to the benefits of belonging to the association.

One of CIPS' main purposes is to spread the message of and enforce the cause of professionalism in the practice of information technology. It does so by encouraging and facilitating ongoing professional development and knowledge sharing, by ensuring compliance with both, an SFIA-aligned body of knowledge and a code of ethics and professional conduct, as well as by safeguarding the public interest. The mentoring program available from CIPS is instrumental in attaining this goal. The program helps model and encourage professional behavior by matching up and coming CIPS members with experienced professionals versed in technology and business. The objective is to help mentees develop soft skills and guide them in their chosen path to success.

In addition, CIPS adds value to its members by offering other services, including the regular hosting of events across Canada for the purpose of encouraging networking and the associated exchange of ideas, professional experiences and best practices.