Glossary of Terms

Certified Facility Manager (CFM)
The first credentialing program in facility management and the most respected global credential in the industry, setting the standard for ensuring the knowledge and abilities of practicing facility managers.

CFM Exam
A computerized exam consisting of multiple-choice questions related to the nine core competencies of facility management. This exam is offered in other formats outside North America.

CFM Exam Review
The definitive course of preparation for IFMA's Certified Facility Manager Exam, designed to assist facility professionals seeking certification with preparation for the competency-based examination.

Competency-Based
A program that assesses professional expertise through work experience, education and the ability to pass a comprehensive exam. (CFM)

Core Competencies
Nine areas identified as the fundamental areas of skills and knowledge necessary for a successful facility manager.

Credit
IFMA recognizes one credit as 15 contact hours of instruction. Courses submitted to IFMA for credit will be reviewed based on this criteria.

Facility Management Professional (FMP)
An entry-level, knowledge-based designation for new and transitioning facility professionals, geared toward FMs with less than five years of experience, designed to accelerate an FM’s transition into the profession.

IFMA Recognized Programs
IFMA developed standards to recognize quality facility management first-professional degree and certificate programs at colleges, universities or technical programs. The Recognized Program initiative was designed to encourage the strengthening of current, valid facility management education degrees and to assist in the development of new facility management degree programs. For a listing of recognized institutions, visit www.ifma.org.

International Facility Management Association (IFMA)
A member-centered organization that exists to develop and serve facility management professionals at all career levels. In support of its members, IFMA promotes the facility management profession by providing leadership, recognition and standards of excellence.

Knowledge-Based
A program that assesses professional comprehension based primarily on coursework and study. (FMP)

Successful Completion
IFMA recognizes successful completion of a course and assessment as a 70 percent or higher and/or letter grade of C or higher.

For more information, please contact certification@ifma.org.