Due to the ever-growing importance of recognised, high quality learning, the accreditation of CPD training courses and events has become increasingly valued by organisations across industries. In January 2023, we conducted an online LinkedIn survey asking voters to choose the main benefit of CPD accreditation. In this article, we will provide an overview of what accredited training encompasses and offer a simple analysis of the results found.
What is CPD accreditation?
CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development and is the term used to describe the learning activities professionals engage in to develop and enhance their abilities. At its core, CPD is about the individual and their commitment to ongoing lifelong learning. CPD encourages looking forward and identifying opportunities to learn something new, refresh existing knowledge, improve skills, or simply keep up-to-date with the latest developments within a particular profession or industry.
The accreditation process takes an impartial and objective overview of the structure and value of learning materials to ensure full conformity to required guidelines. CPD accreditation can apply to a number of different methods of learning, which includes training courses, workshops, seminars, eLearning, conferences, and educational events.
What are the benefits of CPD accreditation?
External validation demonstrates to attendees the steps taken to deliver the highest possible training standards. The CPD Certification Service provides independent CPD accreditation compatible with international requirements. Our CPD ‘Member’ and ‘Certified’ logos are recognised in over 100+ countries and offer professional bodies, institutional associations, educational providers and consumers reassurance that further learning achieves the qualitative standards required by all parties.
Training courses are one of the most popular and well-known forms of CPD. These can be completed online or in person, and provide reliable structured CPD / active learning to participants. CPD events constitute a variety of formats, and may include live speaker sessions, conferences, and incorporate workshops and seminars. Events are usually held at venues and can be categorised by industry.
Analysis of our LinkedIn Survey Poll results
The results of the LinkedIn survey poll explored the principal reason for having training courses and events CPD accredited. Among respondents, 45% emphasised quality assurance as the primary motivation, highlighting the importance of meeting industry standards. Recognising the value of adherence to these standards, voters acknowledged that an unaccredited course or event may fall short in meeting crucial benchmarks.
In the survey, 39% identified CPD certificates as the most significant benefit of accreditation, underscoring the role that validated certificates of attendance play in affirming the quality and legitimacy of completed CPD. Certificates serve as tangible proof to an organisation's staff that their training meets a high-standard of learning, adding value to delegates when keeping their own personal CPD records.
13% of those who voted felt the importance of gaining leading recognition as the primary factor in accrediting training courses and events. Reviewed and formally approved CPD by an independent organisation establishes credibility, indicating that a course or event has achieved acceptance according to internationally known guidelines. For organisations, such recognition builds consumer confidence and enables them to reach new audiences, demonstrating a dedication to delivering quality learning opportunities. CPD with leading recognition serves as a key driving force for individual growth, industry advancement and professional engagement.
3% of voters chose advice and support as their primary reason for accrediting CPD courses and events. Guiding organisations through the accreditation process guarantees compliance with requirements and enhances the quality of professional development. Each CPD activity is checked against a proven assessment criteria to ensure standards are met across key areas. Should any materials not meet the approval requirements, an experienced team of assessors will provide helpful advice, feedback, and recommendations to support and develop your training.
While the majority of respondents identified quality assurance and CPD certificates as the primary reasons to accredit a training course or event, it is evident that leading recognition and advice/support also contribute substantial value to an organisation. It is noteworthy that quality assurance often encompasses advice and support, therefore, many voters often value it within the broader framework of the consultative nature of a reputable accreditation service.
How to gain CPD accreditation for your training courses and events
We hope this article was helpful. Established in 1996, The CPD Certification Service has over 27 years’ experience providing CPD accreditation. With members in over 100 countries, our CPD providers benefit from the ability to promote themselves as part of an international community where quality is both recognised and assured.. Every year we formally review and approve thousands of training courses, events, eLearning programs, conferences, workshops and seminars as CPD accredited.
We work with organisations from all industries, ranging from consultancy firms to training providers, large and small businesses, conference & event organisers, universities, further education colleges, local authority and Government departments.
All materials are assessed and certified against the universally accepted and structured checklist which The CPD Certification Service has developed for over 27 years. Our symbols are trademarked internationally and can be recognised across the world as a sign of quality and credibility. You can search for a selection of accredited providers, courses and events on our website. To learn more about the benefits of CPD accreditation, you can read our similar articles:
- What is the benefit of CPD to your organisation?
- How Does CPD Accreditation Improve my Business Profitability?
- How to register your CPD training for certification
If you currently offer or are looking to provide your own CPD training courses or events, please contact our team or call us on +44 (0)208 840 4383 so we can find out more and offer suitable advice on the next steps in becoming a CPD provider.
