Thinking about launching a certification program but not sure where to start?
If the idea of turning your expertise into a certification program feels overwhelming, you’re not alone.
In this episode, I share my experience launching two certification programs: Chief Strategy and Operating Officers (CSOO) and Entrepreneurial Project Managers (EPM). I break down the process of designing and implementing certifications, focusing on starting with the end goal in mind.
I introduce the Shuhari framework, inspired by martial arts, to simplify the process into three stages: SHU (learning), HA (practicing in context), and RI (mastery). This method helps structure certifications, whether they're short knowledge-based courses or in-depth skill-building programs.
I also discuss the importance of hands-on application through capstone projects and share key lessons from my journey, including how I determined the length and structure of my programs.
In this episode, I share how to alleviate the overwhelm using a simple (and surprisingly effective) framework inspired by martial arts including:
- A breakdown of the shu ha ri framework and why it’s perfect for creating certifications
- Tips on structuring programs with varying durations to fit different needs
- How to make sure your certification delivers real-world results
- Strategies for keeping your certification relevant with ongoing support and renewal
- How to avoid overthinking the process and get started
Tune into Episode 204 of the Lean Out Your Business Podcast or keep reading below.
by Crista Grasso
Crista Grasso is the Founder of Lean Scaling Co and Strategic Ops Institute and the host of the Simplify to Scale Show.
She developed the Lean Scaling System™ to make scaling simple and sustainable for service-based businesses in the messy middle of $1M - $10M. She specializes in elevating the founder out of daily operations and into visionary leadership and in certifying fractionals and consultants to be able to effectively and strategically scale the businesses they partner with.
