Workday, a leader in enterprise cloud applications for finance and human resources, is set to implement significant changes to its certification and training programs effective September 30, 2024. These updates aim to streamline learning paths, enhance accessibility, and ensure consistency across the Workday ecosystem. For professionals and organizations alike, understanding these modifications is crucial for maintaining compliance and maximizing the benefits of Workday’s offerings.
Understanding the Upcoming Changes
Workday’s Forthcoming Adjustments: What You Need to Know
Consolidation of Course Catalogs
Workday plans to merge its customer and partner training materials into a unified course catalog. This integration aims to provide a standardized learning experience, ensuring that all users have access to the same high-quality resources.
Assessment Restructuring
Workday is transitioning its certification assessments from open-book exams to proctored, closed-book formats consisting of fifty multiple-choice questions. Additionally, the recertification cycle will extend from six months to two years, reducing the frequency of mandatory renewals.
Certification Pathway Modifications
Several significant changes are being introduced across certification levels:
- Workday Pro Services: Entry-level certifications will now fall under this category. Coursework is no longer mandatory—certification can be earned by passing the relevant exam.
- Specialty Certifications: These no longer require exams. However, completion of specific courses is still necessary. Access is limited to Workday Service Partners and Workday Professional Services Partners.
- Implementer Certifications: Now distinct from Workday Pro Services. Functional-specific Data Loading and Data Conversion Certifications will each require separate course completions and exams. Consultants must complete a Workday Pro Services Certification in addition to the relevant specialization.
Global Language Support Expansion
To better support its diverse user base, Workday is expanding language support to include:
- French
- German
- Japanese
- Spanish
This expansion will cover course guides, exams, and select instructor-led courses, promoting greater accessibility worldwide.
Implications for Certified Workday Professionals
For those already certified, the upcoming changes bring several advantages:
- Extended Recertification Period: The two-year renewal cycle reduces the administrative burden and allows professionals more time to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.
- Simplified Specialty Certifications: Eliminating exam requirements streamlines the process for expanding into specialized areas.
Note: Certifications obtained before September 30, 2024, will remain valid until their original expiration dates. No immediate action is required unless your certification is due for renewal.
Opportunities for Aspiring Workday Professionals
The upcoming changes present a more accessible pathway for individuals considering Workday certification:
- Coursework Flexibility: Exams no longer require mandatory coursework, allowing experienced professionals to fast-track their certification.
- Broadened Access: The unified catalog and expanded language support create a more inclusive experience for global learners.
Strategic Considerations for Organizations
Organizations leveraging Workday should consider the following strategies:
- Evaluate Current Certifications: Review your team’s certification status and plan for renewals or new specialty certifications that support your operations.
- Plan for Training Adjustments: Align internal training programs with the new unified catalog to ensure consistency and compliance.
- Leverage Expanded Language Support: Utilize new language options to increase accessibility for multilingual teams.
Conclusion
Workday’s 2024 certification and training updates are set to improve learning consistency, streamline certification paths, and expand global accessibility. By preparing now, individuals and organizations alike can continue maximizing their use of the Workday platform to drive success.
At Ventosys, we are committed to keeping you informed about the latest developments in enterprise solutions. Stay tuned to our blog for more insights and updates.
