Prometric and the Human Resource Certification Institute to Launch Computerized Exams in 2004

Prometric and the Human Resource Certification Institute to Launch Computerized Exams in 2004

 Prometric technology converts existing paper and pencil certification program to computer-based format

Baltimore, Md.  – April 15, 2003 – Prometric, a part of The Thomson Corporation (TSX:  TOC; NYSE: TOC), the global leader in technology-enabled testing and assessment services, and the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), the leading generalist certification organization in the human resource field, today announced the conversion of the Institute’s PHR and SPHR exams from paper and pencil to computer-based format beginning in 2004.  Prometric will deliver the computer-based tests for HRCI’s more than 20,000 annual test takers.  The HRCI and Prometric partnership is a major step toward promoting the advancement of the certification industry through secure and convenient computer-based testing (CBT).

HRCI, an affiliate of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), has certified more than 60,000 HR professionals.  Currently, HRCI offers two certifications: Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR).  In partnering with Prometric, HRCI will be better able to provide testing services to HR professionals across the nation.

Successfully completing the HRCI exams shows that candidates have mastered the HR body of knowledge.  This certification provides national recognition of the achievement and may aid in career advancement.  The decision to convert the program to CBT will help HRCI reach even more HR professionals interested in affirming their HR knowledge and bringing standards to the HR industry.

“HRCI responded to the marketplace need for instant exam results and test taking flexibility, by offering computer-based testing,” said Cornelia Cont, CAE, Executive Director from the Institute.  “By converting to CBT, HR professionals will now have a wider choice of scheduling exams on dates and times and in the locations most convenient to them, enhancing test taker satisfaction and further strengthening HRCI’s preeminence in the certification marketplace.” 

HRCI will maintain its partnership with the Professional Examination Service (PES), which will continue to screen applicants for eligibility, process payments, score the exams and distribute official score reports and certificates.

"As the leader in CBT, we understand the certification process and its essentialness for maintaining high professional standards,” said Michael Brannick, president and CEO of Prometric.  “We have the experience and technology necessary to support and help grow the prestigious PHR and SPHR designations.  Converting to CBT affords HRCI consistent testing administration, secure testing through the Prometric network of off-site centers and instant preliminary pass/fail reporting.”

About The Thomson Corporation and Prometric
The Thomson Corporation, with 2002 revenues of $7.8 billion, is a global leader in providing integrated information solutions to business and professional customers. The Corporation's common shares are listed on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges (TSX: TOC; NYSE: TOC). Its learning businesses and brands serve the needs of individuals, learning institutions, corporations and government agencies with products and services for both traditional and distributed learning. 

Prometric (www.prometric.com) is the global leader in technology-enabled testing and assessment services for information technology certification, academic admissions and professional licensure and certifications. Prometric delivers standardized tests for more than 300 clients, in more than 25 languages, over the Web or through a global network of testing centers in more than 121 countries. Based in Baltimore, Md., Prometric employs more than 3,000 employees worldwide.

About HRCI

Established in 1976, the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) is the human resource (HR) credentialing organization founded by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), to promote the establishment of professional standards for the HR industry. HRCI's mission is to develop and administer high quality certification programs that are the recognized standard for the HR profession. HRCI recognizes HR professionals who, through professional experience and the successful completion of the HRCI comprehensive exam, have met the requirements for mastering the HR body of knowledge. Today, more than 60,000 HR professionals are PHR or SPHR certified through HRCI.

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