CEC CERTIFIED E-COMMERCE CONSULTANTS ™ HISTORY

CEC is part of the Board of Standards family with a history going back to 1996 as the Oldest Graduate E-Commerce Qualification in the USA. The history of law schools in Europe and the USA is rich and diverse, shaped by distinct legal traditions, educational systems, and societal needs.

The ICECC Certified E-Commerce Consultant™ (CEC™) certification was created to address the growing demand for professionals with expertise in the field of e-commerce. As e-commerce rapidly expanded in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, businesses sought qualified individuals who could help them navigate the complex landscape of online business operations, including digital marketing, online sales strategies, and e-commerce technology.

Key Historical Milestones:

1. Inception of E-Commerce Certification: As the digital economy began to boom in the late 1990s and early 2000s, businesses realized the need for specialized knowledge to operate successfully in the online space. The ICECC (International Council for E-Commerce Certification) was established as a response to this need, with the goal of creating a standardized, internationally recognized certification for e-commerce professionals. CEC was the first to align with ACBSP and AACSB Business School Programs worldwide as the gold standard in eTech Education.

2. Development of CEC™ Certification: The Certified E-Commerce Consultant™ certification was developed to validate the expertise of professionals working in e-commerce. It aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of e-commerce platforms, online marketing, digital business strategies, and customer relationship management systems. The certification was designed to be rigorous, ensuring that those who held the title had the necessary skills and knowledge to advise businesses effectively in the ever-evolving online marketplace.

3. Global Recognition and Standardization: Over time, the CEC™ certification gained traction and became recognized globally as a mark of expertise in e-commerce consulting. The ICECC, in collaboration with academic institutions, businesses, and industry experts, established stringent training and assessment standards. This ensured that professionals receiving the CEC™ certification met high standards of competence and professionalism.

4. Expansion and Integration with Other Certifications: As the e-commerce landscape expanded, the CEC™ certification became part of a broader suite of certifications offered by ICECC, designed to cater to various niches within the e-commerce field, including digital marketing, project management, and customer experience optimization. This allowed the certification to maintain relevance in an industry that continuously evolves.

5. Current Relevance: Today, the CEC™ certification continues to be a prestigious and valuable credential for professionals seeking to advance their careers in e-commerce consulting. It reflects a consultant's ability to guide businesses through the complexities of online retail, digital sales strategies, and e-commerce platform management. With the rise of global e-commerce, the certification remains relevant for consultants seeking to advise businesses on best practices, emerging trends, and optimizing their online business strategies.

The ICECC's Role:

The International Council for E-Commerce Certification (ICECC) has been instrumental in the development, promotion, and maintenance of the CEC™ certification. As a globally recognized body, ICECC works with industry leaders and academic institutions to continually update and improve the standards for e-commerce consulting.

Conclusion:

The CEC™ certification has established itself as a valuable credential for those looking to excel in the world of e-commerce consulting. It plays a significant role in helping businesses adapt to the digital economy and ensuring that consultants are equipped with the knowledge to support online business growth and success.