Preparatory training courses are offered by around 200 partner colleges. Three large Swiss economic associations support this certification: the Swiss Trade and Crafts Association (SGV), the Swiss Workers' Association (SAV), and the Swiss Economic Association for Information, Communication, and Organizational Technology (SWICO).

In 2006, SIZ selected the Questionmark Perception assessment-management system as part of a comprehensive update of the certification process. Certification exams had been administered on paper, but with the aid of the Questionmark system, the electronic examination was successfully introduced in 2007. The online administration of assessments has made it easy to access information. Colleges and candidates can now monitor everything from registration to the publication of grades, and administrators can adapt the system to their individual requirements.

Important benefits include flexible examination dates, quick availability of exam results and a range of evaluation options that make it possible to reach direct conclusions about the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates, as well as the quality of their training.

Computerized testing now constitutes the core business of the SIZ, but the organization wants to do more than simply adapting the previous paper-based examination system to provide additional services such as the training and examination platforms for candidates and colleges.


There are now plans to develop ICT-skills analyses on the basis of adaptive test methods for employers and staff representatives. The aim of the SIZ is to provide tools and guidance for candidates, colleges, and the employment world (employers, staff representatives, professional consultants) that are accepted as a standard and benchmark for professional ICT skills.