1 .Guide To New Exam

Information Technology Engineers Examination
Guide to the New Examination System
-- A Guidepost to Advanced IT Human Resources --
Information-technology Promotion Agency New Examination System Deliberation Committee Report
December 25, 2007
Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008
Contents
1 Summary of the System Revision ..................................................................................................... 4 1.1 Positioning of this Report .......................................................................................................... 4 1.2 Approach of the Information Technology Engineers Examination System Review ................. 4 (1) Examination System Compliant with the Common Career/Skill Framework ....................... 4 (2) Establishment of an examination that corresponds with Level 1 of the Common Career/Skill Framework .............................................................................. 8 (3) Integration of vendor-side and user-side human resources .................................................... 9 (4) Response to growing importance of knowledge and skills of embedded systems ................ 9 (5) Consolidation of advanced examinations .............................................................................. 9 (6) Fundamental review of scope of questions to reflect state-of-the-art technological trends .... 10 (7) Improvement of convenience for examinees ....................................................................... 10 Outline of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination System ............................... 11 2.1 The New Categories of the Information Technology Engineers Examination ........................ 11 (1) Examination categories........................................................................................................ 11 (2) Considerations regarding the examination system .............................................................. 13 2.2 Outline of Examination Categories ......................................................................................... 14 (1) Typical examinees ............................................................................................................... 14 (2) Association between examination categories of the Advanced Examination and fields of work..... 15 2.3 Correspondence between the Current and New Examinations................................................ 16 (1) Correspondence between the Current and New Examinations ............................................ 16 (2) Comparison of the Scope of the Current and New Examinations ....................................... 20 (3) Transition of the Information Technology Engineers Examination System ........................ 20 2.4 Considerations for Questions in the New Examinations ......................................................... 20 (1) Corresponding to a Wide Range of Human Resource Models ............................................ 20 (2) Questions Regarding Knowledge of User Tasks and a Wide Range of Industries .............. 21 (3) Questions from Users' Standpoint ....................................................................................... 22 (4) Questions Related to Embedded Systems............................................................................ 22 (5) Questions Related to System Audits .................................................................................... 22 Details of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination............................................. 23 3.1 The Human Resource Models (Tasks and Roles, Expected Technology Level, Corresponding Level) Corresponding to Each Examination Category ................................... 23 (1) IT Passport Examination...................................................................................................... 23 (2) Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination .......................................... 23 (3) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination .................................................... 24 (4) Information Technology Strategist Examination ................................................................. 25 (5) Systems Architect Examination ........................................................................................... 26 (6) Project Manager Examination ............................................................................................. 27 (7) Network Specialist Examination ......................................................................................... 28 (8) Database Specialist Examination ......................................................................................... 28 (9) Embedded Systems Specialist Examination ........................................................................ 29 (10) Information Security Specialist Examination ...................................................................... 30 (11) Information Technology Service Manager Examination ..................................................... 30 (12) Systems Auditor Examination ............................................................................................. 31 Configuration and Grading of Examinations .................................................................................. 33 4.1 Examination Time, Type, and Number of Questions and Answers ......................................... 33 4.2 Outline of the Scope of Questions ........................................................................................... 34 4.3 Grading Method, Points Allocation and Pass Criteria ............................................................. 34 Examination Implementation .......................................................................................................... 37 5.1 Implementation Schedule of the New Examination System ................................................... 37 5.2 Implementation Method and Period of Examinations ............................................................. 37
5.3 Exemption System ................................................................................................................... 38 (1) Introduction of Exemption System for a Part of the Morning Exam in the Advanced Examination .............................................................................................. 38 (2) Exemption System Interim Measures for Successful Candidates in the Current Examinations ...... 39 (3) Exemption System Interim Measures for Individuals that have Completed Authorized Courses in the Current Examination System .................................. 40 (4) Authorized Course Exemption System in the New Examination System ........................... 41 5.4 Accommodating Physically Disabled Persons ........................................................................ 41 6 Information Disclosure ................................................................................................................... 42 (1) IT Passport Examination (discussions ongoing) .................................................................. 42 (2) Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination, Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination, and Advanced Examination .... 42 Matters for Consideration ............................................................................................................... 44 7.1 In Consideration of Future Improvements and Enhancements of the Examination System ......... 44 Scope of Questions.......................................................................................................................... 45 8.1 IT Passport Examination ......................................................................................................... 45 8.2 Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination, Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination, and Advanced Examination ........ 49 (1) Morning Examination .......................................................................................................... 49 (2) Afternoon Examinations ...................................................................................................... 60 Transition of the Information Technology Engineers Examination System ......................... 68 Comparison of Scope of Current and New Examinations .................................................... 69 Breakdown of Number of Questions per Field in the Fundamental Information Technology Abstract of Aiming towards the Development of Advanced IT Human Resources..... 77 Structure of Skill Standards ............................................................................................. 84 Members List ..................................................... 87 Deliberation History .......................................... 89
7 8
Annex 1 Annex 2 Annex 3
Engineer Examination and Applied Information Technology Engineer Afternoon Examination .......... 76 Appendix 1 Appendix 2
New Examination System Deliberation Committee New Examination System Deliberation Committee Guide to the IT Passport Examination
(Level 1 Examination Working Group Report) ......................................................................... 89
The company and products names in this report are trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective companies. Also, this report does not specify and TM .
1 Summary of the System Revision

1.1
Positioning of this Report The Human Resources Development Working Group (hereinafter, HRD-WG) which was established in October 2006, under the Information Service and Software Subcommittee of the Information Economy Committee within the Industrial Structure Council, has discussed matters concerning the development of advanced IT human resources in perspective of the coming 10 years in Japan. The results of the discussions have been summarized in a report entitled Aiming towards the Development of Advanced IT Human Resources (hereinafter, HRD-WG Report), dated July 20, 2007 (see Appendix 1). Based on the discussions of the HRD-WG, the Information-technology Promotion Agency (hereinafter, IPA) established the New Examination System Deliberation Committee (chairperson: Yoshiaki Iwamaru) in April 2007, consisting of experts on the Information Technology Engineers Examination. This committee has deliberated the realization of a new Information Technology Engineers Examination system. The committee produced a report entitled New Examination System Deliberation Committee Interim Report as an interim result of their discussions and invited public comments during the period September 7 to 27, 2007. This Report is a final summarization of the discussions by the New Examination System Deliberation Committee, taking account of the public comments. Furthermore, under the New Examination System Deliberation Committee, the Level 1 Examination Working Group (chairperson: Kazuhiko Satoh) has discussed the contents of the newly established Level 1 Examination. The report entitled Guide to the IT Passport Examination produced by this working group as a result of their discussions, is an integral part of this report and is added to the end.
1.2
Approach of the Information Technology Engineers Examination System Review In reviewing the Information Technology Engineers Examination system, the content was
examined closely from the viewpoints of examination implementation experts based on the direction of the examination system reform as proposed by HRD-WG Report and moreover the improvement of examinees convenience was considered. (1) Examination System Compliant with the Common Career/Skill Framework The HRD-WG Report proposed the establishment of a Common Career/Skill Framework that indicates the career and required skills suitable for the advanced IT human resource models that Japan should aim to develop in the future. In order to build an objective human resource evaluation mechanism under the Common Career/Skill Framework, the Information Technology Engineers Examination system is revised fundamentally to be compliant with each of the human resource skill
standards including the IT Skill Standard (ITSS)1, Embedded Technology Skill Standards (ETSS)2 and Users' Information Systems Skill Standards (UISS)3 (see Table 1 and Appendix 2) using the Common Career/Skill Framework as a reference model and thereby make it useful for judging the level of individual skill as shown below. Of the seven levels of the Common Career/Skill Framework, Level 1 through 3 are judged basically by passing the Information Technology Engineers Examination, and Level 4 is judged by work experience etc. in addition to passing the Information Technology Engineers Examination (Figure 1).
Advanced IT Human Resources
SuperHigh
Level 7 Level 6
Domestic High-End Players Accepted Internationally High-End Players on a Domestic Level High-End Players on a Corporate Level Advanced Knowledge and Skills
Performance (Achievement) Basis
Professional Committee
Work Experience, Interview, etc.
High
Level 4 Level 3
Middle
Exam Result and Work Experience
Evaluated by Each Corporation
Level 5
The new exam corresponds up to level 4.
Advanced Exam Middle Exam Basic Exam Entry Exam
Applicable Knowledge and Skills
Skill (Ability) Basis
Level 2
Entry
Basic Knowledge and Skills Minimum Required Basic Knowledge
Level 1
Note:
Exam Result
indicates the scope of the Examination System Reform
Figure 1
Level Judgment based on the Common Career/Skill Framework (Source: HRD-WG Report)
ITSS (Skill Standards for IT Professionals): A reference that defines and systemizes the skills required for providing various IT related services, and that is intended to provide a useful guideline (common framework) for the education, training etc. of IT service professionals within the industry and academic world. ETSS (Embedded Technology Skill Standards): A reference that defines and systemizes the skills required for embedded software development, and that is intended to provide a useful guideline (common criteria) for the human resource development and utilization of embedded software developers. UISS (Users' Information Systems Skill Standards): A reference for optimal placement of information system functions within companies, and for determining required human resources and appropriate human resource development for this arrangement.
Table 1
Overview of Each Skill Standard (source: based on HRD-WG Report)

Skill Standards for IT Professional (ITSS) Embedded Technology Skill Standards (ETSS) Users Information Systems Skill Standards (UISS)
May 2005 IPA: Software Engineering Center (SEC) A reference that defines and systemizes the competence required for providing various IT related services, and a useful common framework for the development and education of IT service professionals within the industry and academic world. A reference to realize optimal human resource development, and effective resources, utilization with of human to regard June 2006 Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) A reference that systemizes the skills required and within user companies organizations
Publication Date Administration Body Purpose
December 2002 IPA: IT Skill Standard Center
that utilize information systems. Systemization is based on the software lifecycle process from system planning and development up to maintenance, operation, and disposal. Users Organizational Jobs Functions and
embedded software development. (The skill standards focus on technology, and do not define skills such as business skills and interpersonal skills). Embedded Engineers Technology (Skill Framework)
Main Target Focus
Vendors Human Resources (Career Framework)
Career Framework
Career Framework
Structure
Skill Dictionary
(Note) For details of the structures, refer to Appendix 2.
The HRD-WG Report presents three human resource categories and seven human resource models shown in Table 2 and Figure 2. Of these, the new Information Technology Engineers Examination targets the five human resource models for basic strategist and solution provider human resources. Table 2 Types of Advanced IT Human Resources
Human Resource Model 1) Strategist 2) Systems Architect <Solution providers> Designs and develops systems as well as supervising highly reliable and productive operations 3) Service Manager
(Source: based on HRD-WG Report)

Scope of Exam
Human Resource Type <Basic strategists> Plans basic strategies to solve various issues using IT
Human Resource Model Description Leads the increase of business values by utilizing IT. Designs systems best suited for the business strategy. Maintains the system while ensuring ongoing high reliability. Manages construction of highly reliable systems under given constraints (quality, cost, delivery date, etc.). Implements technology domains such as databases, networks, etc. Brings innovation to society and economy by creation, etc. of new elemental technologies. Corresponds with education of Skill Standards for IT Professionals.
Included
4) Project Manager 5) Technical Specialist
<Creators> Pioneers social and economical frontiers using new elemental technology <Others>
6) Creator
Not Included
7) Others
Current Skill Standards (34 Job Titles)

IT: Skill Standards for IT Professionals (11) ET: Embedded Technology Skill Standards (10) UI: Users' Information Systems Skill Standards (13)
Skill Standards
Human Resources Type
Human Resource Category
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Level 4
Assessed by Exam Result, Work Experience, etc.
Level 5
Level 6
Level 7
Assessed by Exam Result
Assessed by Work Experience, Evaluation of Professionals, etc.
Work Experience Verification & Evaluation of Professionals and Experts etc.
Middle Examination ( Tentative Name )
2. Systems Architect
3. Service Manager
Solution
4. Project Manager
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33
ET UI UI ET ET ET ET ET Creation
*2
5. Technical Specialist
Development Environment Engineer
6. Creator 7. Other
Creators are ineligible for assessment by the ITEE. Correspond to education category in ITSS
34
Education
* 1: Although the Information Security Engineer Examination and Systems Auditor Examination are designed
to examine the human resource models of Service Manager or Technical Specialist, these examinations remain unchanged.
* 2: In the new human resource models application design is part of the Systems Architect category,
while application implementation is part of the Technical Specialist category. In the examination, topics from application design to implementation is included in the Systems Architect Examination.
(Note)
indicates the scope of the examination system reform.
Figure 2
Current Skill Standard and Direction of Restructuring of the Information Technology Engineers Examination (Source: based on the HRD-WG Report)
(2) Establishment of an examination that corresponds with Level 1 of the Common Career/Skill Framework Information technology is becoming a social infrastructure of Japan, and is playing an important role in any company regardless of its industry or its types of role up to a point where company and organizational activities can hardly be discussed without taking information technology into account. To perform activities as business workers within these circumstances, in addition to being capable of operating personal computers and processing data using them, all business workers are required to have perspective for aggressively utilizing the potential of information technology in their own tasks to generate added value. Business workers are also expected to have an understanding of how to utilize information technology in order to identify and analyze issues in the workplace and solve those issues. Furthermore, it is essential for business workers in the coming years to possess knowledge such as how to safely perform business activities in the network society and knowledge that contribute to improving corporate compliance. Considering these points, the Level 1 Examination, which measures the basic knowledge commonly required of business workers, is newly established to expand the IT human resource
Technical Specialist Exam
Application Specialist IT Specialist Software Development Domain Specialist Software Engineer QA Specialist Test Engineer
Entry Examination ( Tentative Name )
Basic Examination ( Tentative Name )
Systems Architect Exam
Work Experience Verification
Project
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Business Strategist IS Strategist Program Manager IS Analyst Marketing Sales Consultant Product Manager IS Architect IT Architect Systems Architect IS Operation IS Administrator Security Administrator IS Staff IS Auditor IT Service Management Customer Service Project Manager Project Management Project Manager Bridge SE Development Process Improvement Specialist System Designer Application Designer
UI UI UI UI ET UI ET UI UI UI UI UI UI ET ET
Basic Strategy
1. Strategist
Service Manager
Strategist Exam
population at entry level, thereby aiming to improve the overall national capability of information technology utilization. The System Administrator Examination, which has achieved a good reputation as an examination for information system users, is incorporated partially into the Level 1 and Level 2 Examinations in order that a better examination system may be formed.. The Level 1 Examination has a duration of just under three hours and consists only of multiple-choice questions, and a broad range of questions are set with regard to basic knowledge of the three fields of the Common Career/Skill Framework which are strategy, management, and technology. Successful examinees must reach or surpass the standard qualifying scores set for each of the three fields and for the total score of the three fields. Furthermore, examinations are conducted frequently throughout the year, and the introduction of CBT (Computer Based Testing: an examination method in which questions are displayed and answered on personal computers) is sought so that examinees can take the exams in places most convenient for themselves. Successful examinees are granted qualification certificates from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, and their score is written on the certificate. For details regarding the Level 1 Examination, refer to the Guide to the IT Passport Examination. (3) Integration of vendor-side and user-side human resources Both the IT industry and user industry are in need of human resources capable of strategically utilizing information technology. Furthermore, in order to plan and construct an appropriate highquality information system, it is imperative that user-side human resources possess knowledge and skills at levels comparable to vendor-side human resources, and vendor-side human resources possess thorough knowledge of user-side tasks, and that both maintain close communication with each other. Considering these matters, the examination system is reformed to integrate vendor-side human resources and user-side human resources that had been separated in the current Information Technology Engineers Examination. Specifically, the Level 1, 2, and 3 Examinations are designed to cover a wide area of questions not only from the technology field but also from the management and strategy fields, so that the examinations can be also utilized broadly on the user-side. (4) Response to growing importance of knowledge and skills of embedded systems Knowledge and skill of embedded systems are examined only in a certain examination category under the current Information Technology Engineers Examination, but the examination system is reformed so that questions on embedded systems are included broadly in order to respond to their growing importance for increasing Japans global competitiveness. (5) Consolidation of advanced examinations In accordance with the integration of vendor-side and user-side human resources, examination
categories of technological fields that overlap are consolidated. Specifically, the current System Analyst Examination and Senior System Administrator Examination are consolidated in order to develop human resources which establish basic strategies and lead increases in business value by utilizing information technology. Furthermore, the Information Security Engineer Examination and Information System Security Administrator Examination are consolidated in accordance with the requirements of vendor-side and user-side human resources with comparable levels of knowledge and skills in the face of the rising importance of information security. (6) Fundamental review of scope of questions to reflect state-of-the-art technology trends To cope with the rapid development of information technology, a fundamental review of the scope of questions is conducted in accordance with the Common Career/Skill Framework. Knowledge required of IT human resources is organized into three fields: Strategy, Management, and Technology. Furthermore, the essential technology fields such as embedded systems, information security, and Open Source Software (OSS) are clearly included within the scope of the questions, and state-of-the-art knowledge is incorporated. (7) Improvement of convenience for examinees In order to make it easier for more people to take the examinations, the newly established Level 1 Examination seeks to introduce CBT. Furthermore, not only the total score, but also the scores in each of the Strategy, Management, and Technology fields, are made available to examinees in addition to their pass/fail result. Also, the exemption system with regard to the Afternoon Examination of the Advanced Examinations is expanded.
2 Outline of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination System

The results regarding the reform of the Information Technology Engineers Examination system, based on 1.2 Approach of the Information Technology Engineers Examination System Review, are shown below.
2.1
The New Categories of the Information Technology Engineers Examination
(1) Examination categories The new Information Technology Engineers Examination is, in principle, designed as a system compliant with the Common Career/Skill Framework. Specifically, Level 1 to 4 of the five human resource models of Strategist, Systems Architect, Project Manager, Service Manager, and Technical Specialist are covered. a) For Level 1 through 3 of the Common Career/Skill Framework, an examination common to the five human resource models are established. Of these, the examination associated with Level 1 is the IT Passport Examination, the examination associated with Level 2 is the Fundamental Information Technology Information Engineer Examination, and the examination associated with Level 3 is the Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination. b) For Level 4, an examination category taking into account the human resource models, etc. of the HRD-WG Report is established, and is collectively called Advanced Examination. Specifically, the examination for Strategists is the Information Technology Strategist Examination, the examination for Systems Architects and some Technical Specialists is the Systems Architect Examination, the examination for Project Managers is the Project Manager Examination, and the examination for Service Managers is the Information Technology Service Manager Examination. For Technical Specialists, the target technological area is explicitly identified and is subdivided into the following three categories: Network Specialist Examination, Database Specialist Examination, and Embedded Systems Specialist Examination. Besides the above, the Information Security Specialist Examination and Systems Auditor Examination are established, and associated with Technical Specialists and Service Managers respectively. (Table 3 and Figure 3)
Table 3
Examination Categories, and Associated Human Resource Models and Levels

Examination category Associated human resource models and levels Level 1 of the 5 human resource models Level 2 of the 5 human resource models Level 3 of the 5 human resource models Level 4 of Strategists (Note) Level 4 of Systems Architects (Note) Level 4 of Technical Specialists (Note) Level 4 of Project Managers (Note) Level 4 of Technical Specialists (Note) Level 4 of Technical Specialists (Note) Level 4 of Technical Specialists (Note) Level 4 of Technical Specialists (Note) Level 4 of Service Managers (Note) Level 4 of Service Managers (Note)
IT Passport Examination Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination Information Technology Strategist Examination Systems Architect Examination Project Manager Examination Network Specialist Examination Database Specialist Examination Embedded Systems Specialist Examination Information Security Specialist Examination Information Technology Service Manager Examination Systems Auditor Examination
Advanced Examination
(Note) For Level 4, qualification is determined by task experience etc. in addition to passing the Information Technology Engineers Examination.
Common Career Skill Framework
Information Systems / Embedded Systems Vendor / User Advanced (Professional) Examination Database Specialist Exam Network Specialist Exam IT Service Manager Exam Systems Architect Exam Project Manager Exam
Independent
Specialist Exam
Level 4 Knowledge & Skills
(ST)
Applied Level 3 Knowledge & Skills Basic Level 2 Knowledge & Skills Basic Level 1 Working Knowledge
(SA)
(PM)
(NW)
(DB)
(ES)
(SC)
Specialist Exam
Advanced
Information Security
IT Strategist Exam
(SM)
(AU)
Applied Information Technology Engineer Exam (AP)
Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Exam (FE)
IT Passport Exam (IP)
Systems Auditor Exam
Embedded Systems
<Description of examination category abbreviations> Examination category name Information Technology Passport Examination Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination Information Technology Strategist Examination Systems Architect Examination Project Manager Examination Network Specialist Examination Database Specialist Examination Embedded Systems Specialist Examination Information Security Specialist Examination Information Technology Service Manager Examination Systems Auditor Examination Figure 3
Abbreviation IP FE AP ST SA PM NW DB ES SC SM AU
Structure Diagram of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination
(2) Considerations regarding the examination system The followings are addressed in consideration of the standpoint of the information policy, continuity with regard to the current examination system, and the expected number of applicants and examinees, etc. a) Target scope of the Information Technology Strategist Examination The Information Technology Strategist Examination targets basic strategists who plan basic strategies to solve various business management issues by utilizing information technology, and includes the contents of the current System Analyst Examination and Senior Administrator Examination. b) Target scope of the Systems Architect Examination The Systems Architect Examination addresses systems architects who design the system structures of information systems4 and embedded systems, and technical specialists who design and develop applications for information systems. c) Target scope of the Information Security Specialist Examination The Information Security Specialist Examination includes the contents of the current Information Security Engineer Examination and Information Security Administrator Examination.
Hereinafter in this report, systems that are mainly enterprise type will be referred to as information systems in order to differentiate them from embedded systems. Furthermore, information systems and embedded systems will be collectively referred to as systems.
2.2
Outline of Examination Categories
(1) Typical examinees The profile of intended examinees for each examination category is shown in Table 4. Table 4
Examination category
Typical Examinees for Each Examination Category
Typical examinee Individuals who have basic knowledge of information technology that all IT Passport business workers should commonly possess, and who are doing information Examination technology related tasks, or trying to utilize information technology in their tasks in charge. Fundamental Individuals who have basic fundamental knowledge and skills required to be an Information Technology advanced IT human resource, and who possess practical utilization abilities. Engineers Examination Applied Information Individuals who have applied knowledge and skills required to be an advanced Technology Engineers IT human resource, and who have established their own direction as an Examination advanced IT human resource. Individuals who have an established field of expertise as an advanced IT human resource, and who plan, propose, and promote basic strategies to innovate, Information sophisticate, and optimize certain processes with regard to business models and Technology Strategist activities utilizing information technology, based on the companys Examination management strategies. Or, individuals who supervise the planning and development of embedded systems, and plan, propose, and promote basic strategies to realize new values. Individuals who have an established field of expertise as an advanced IT human resource, and in response to suggestions from IT strategists, define the Systems Architect requirements that are necessary for the development of information systems or Examination embedded systems, design the architecture to realize the systems, and for information systems, lead development. Individuals who have an established field of expertise as an advanced IT human resource, and who, as a person responsible for a system development project, Project Manager prepare project plans, secure the required personnel and resources, and control Examination and manage the project while taking responsibility for achievement of the planned budget, delivery date, and quality. Individuals who have an established field of expertise as an advanced IT human resource, and who utilize specific technologies related to networks and take a central role in the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, Network Specialist and maintenance of optimal information system infrastructures while providing Examination technical support for the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance of information systems as a specialist of specific technologies. Individuals who have an established field of expertise as an advanced IT human resource, and who utilize specific technologies related to databases and take a central role in the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, Database Specialist and maintenance of optimal information system infrastructures while providing Examination technical support for the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance of information systems as a specialist of specific technologies. Individuals who have an established field of expertise as an advanced IT human resource, and who utilize their broad knowledge and skills related to embedded Embedded Systems system development and lead the establishment of optimal embedded system Specialist Examination development infrastructure and the design, establishment, and production of embedded systems. Individuals who have an established field of expertise as an advanced IT human Information Security resource, and who, with regard to the planning, requirements definition, Specialist Examination development, operation, and maintenance, support the realization of security
Advanced Examination
Examination category
Information Technology Service Manager Examination
Systems Auditor Examination
Typical examinee features compliant with information security policies or prepare the information system infrastructure and support information security management as a specialist of information security technology. Individuals who have an established field of expertise as an advanced IT human resource, and who with regard to the overall information system, ensure stable operations and act to minimizes damage from incidents as well as take efforts such as continuous improvement and quality management to provide highly safe and reliable services. Individuals who have an established field of expertise as an advanced IT human resource, and who from a standpoint independent from auditees, comprehensively inspect and evaluate the risks and controls of information systems and embedded systems, report audit results to top management and others, and recommend improvements.
(2) Association between examination categories of the Advanced Examination and fields of work The roles that the assumed human resources in each of the examination categories of the Advanced Examination play in each field of work related to providing IT solutions, products, and services, can be roughly organized as shown in Figure 4.
Field of Work (Phase) (Note) Exam Category Business Strategy Planning Information System Strategy Planning
Planning &
Planning
Requirements Definition
System Design
Software Design
Production, Test, Deployment
Operation
Maintenance
System Auditing
Information Technology Strategist Exam Systems Architect Exam Project Manager Exam Network Specialist Exam Database Specialist Exam Embedded System Specialist Exam Information Security Specialist Exam Information Technology Service Manager Exam
Planning & evaluation of Envisioning & evaluation of planning of information system strategy business individual and overall strategy systemization
systemization
Technical support
System planning
Requirements definition
System planning
Management & evaluation of information system strategy execution Information Information Information system system system design establishment evaluation
Technical support
Envisioning & Project Project planning of Project Project planning & management individual management management management & evaluation systemization Network Technical Technical System Network system support support planning system design establishment Database Technical Technical System Database system support support planning system design establishment Technical support Technical support Technical support Technical support System planning System planning Embedded system design Security function design Embedded system establishment Security function establishment
Network system operation Database system operation Technical support Technical support
Service
Network system maintenance Database system maintenance

Embedded system enhancement & maintenance
Technical support
Service
management management Service Service Service Service Service execution, and execution, and management provision & provision & management management management management planning & continual continual planning planning planning planning execution improvement of improvement of services services
Systems Auditor Exam : Main work fields
System auditing
: Subordinate work fields
(Note) The fields of work are organized based on Software Life Cycle Processes-Japan Common Frame 2007.
Figure 4
Association between Examination Categories of the Advanced Examinations and Fields of Work
2.3
Correspondence between the Current and New Examinations
(1) Correspondence between the Current and New Examinations The categories for the new examinations roughly correspond to those of the current examinations as shown in Figure 5. Note that the rearrangement and restructuring of the examination categories is done to provide a new measure for the development of competence that is more in line with needs of the age, and this does not change a pass in an examination under the previous examination system. In particular, while the Systems Administrator Examination is principally incorporated into the IT Passport Examination in order that a better examination system may be formed, the Systems Administrator Examination questions, which tested knowledge and skills required in promoting the computerization of a section, required a higher level of understanding than the IT Passport Examination, which mostly tests fundamental knowledge commonly required for utilizing IT in the workplace. Therefore, it can be said that the Systems Administrator Examination is inclusive of the level of the IT Passport Examination, and an individual that has passed the Systems Administrator Examination satisfies the level required to pass the IT Passport Examination. The transition of the examination system, from its foundation in 1969 to the upcoming revision, is described in Annex 1.
Independent
Information Systems Development & Operation Side Application Systems Engineer Examination Technical Engineer Examination
Embedded Systems Development Information Security Database Systems Network Systems
Information Systems User Side Information Systems Security Administrator Examination

(SU)
Systems Analyst Examination
Project Manager Examination
Current Examination
(AU)
(AN)
(PM)
(AE)
(NW)
(DB)
(SM)
Systems Management
(ES)
(SV)
Software Design & Development Engineer Examination (SW) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination (FE) Systems Administrator Examination (AD)
Information Systems/Embedded Systems Vendor/User

Advanced (Professional) Exam
Level
Independent
Embedded Systems Specialist Examination
Information Security Specialist Examination
Database Specialist Examination
IT Service Manager Examination
Network Specialist Examination
Systems Architect Examination
New Examination
(ST)
(SA)
(PM)
(NW)
(DB)
(ES)
(SC)
(SM)
3 2 1
Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination (AP) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination (FE) Information Technology Passport Examination (IP)
: Indicates that the categories of the new and current exams correspond closely to one another in terms of the scope of the questions and level of difficulty. : Indicates that the categories of the new and current exams correspond closely to one another in terms of the level of difficulty. The scope of the questions is widened and technical aspects are partially supplemented in the categories of the new exams. : Indicates that the categories of the new and current exams correspond closely to one another in terms of the scope of the questions. The categories of the current exams include the level of the categories of the new exams.
Figure 5
Correspondence between Current and New Examinations
Below, correspondence between the current and new examination categories is explained. a) IT Passport Examination (Level 1) The scope of questions covers a wide range of fields, from the fields of strategy, management, and technology. It covers the same scope as the Morning Exam of the current Systems Administrator Examination, and is further supplemented with fundamental theories. Bearing in mind that the examination is aimed at testing basic knowledge that all business workers should possess, the examination focuses on testing the understanding of fundamental terminology and concepts, etc. in the fields of strategy, management, and technology.

(AU)
IT Strategist Examination
Senior Systems Administrator Examination

(SD)
b) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination (Level 2) The Morning Exam covers the same fields as the current Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination. The afternoon exam covers the same technology fields as the current Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination, while incorporating management and strategy fields, questions is spread evenly across a broad range of fields. The level of the examination is almost equivalent to that of the current Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination. c) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination (Level 3) The Morning Exam includes strategy fields in addition to the technology and management fields covered in the current Software Design & Development Engineer Examination. The Afternoon Exam covers almost the same technology fields as the current Software Design & Development Engineer Examination, but also includes management and strategy questions. Several questions are provided, allowing the examinee to select and answer the questions that best match his/her area of profession. The level of the new examination is almost equivalent to that of the current Software Design & Development Engineer Examination. d) Information Technology Strategist Examination (Level 4) In addition to fields covered by the current System Analyst Examination, this examination covers the fields of formulation of management-oriented business strategies, as well as execution management and evaluation of IT strategies. This examination is inclusive of the current Senior Systems Administrator Examination. Multiple-choice questions on planning, formulation of development schedules and promotion of embedded systems also are added to expand the scope of questions. While the current System Analyst Examination is targeted at ITSS level 5, the IT Strategist Examination is targeted at level 4, with its relative difficulty lowered slightly such as by reducing the complexity and the scale of the theme described in the questions. e) Systems Architect Examination (Level 4) In comparison to the current Application Systems Engineer Examination, the Systems Architect Examination clarifies and focuses on the structural design of information systems for total optimization and on the system formula design of the target information systems. Architecture design for embedded systems is covered by additional multiple-choice questions. The level of the new examination is almost equivalent to that of the current Application Systems Engineer Examination. f) Project Manager Examination (Level 4)
The scope of the examination is almost equivalent to that of the current Project Manager Examination, but additionally covers embedded systems. While the current Project Manager Examination was targeted at ITSS level 5, the new Project Manager Examination is targeted at level 4, with its relative difficulty lowered slightly such as by reducing the complexity and the scale of the projects used in the questions. g) Network Specialist Examination (Level 4) The scope and level of the examination is almost equivalent to the current Network Systems Engineer Examination. h) Database Specialist Examination (Level 4) The scope and level of the examination is almost equivalent to the current Database Systems Engineer Examination. i) Embedded Systems Specialist Examination (Level 4) The scope and level of the examination is almost equivalent to the current Embedded Systems Development Engineer Examination. j) Information Security Specialist Examination (Level 4) This examination covers the combined scope of the current Information Security Engineer Examination and the Information Systems Security Administrator Examination. In order to match the Technical Specialist model described in the Common Career/Skill Framework, the Information Security Specialist Examination is weighted towards security technology fields covered in the Information Security Engineer Examination (refer to *1 in Figure 2, and Table 3). The level of the examination questions is almost equivalent to that of the current Information Security Engineer Examination and the Information Systems Security Administrator Examination. k) Information Technology Service Manager Examination (Level 4) The Information Technology Service Manager Examination is based on the current Systems Management Engineer Examination, but its scope is reorganized in accordance with JIS Q 20000 and ITIL for a greater emphasis on management aspects. The level of the examination is almost equivalent to that of the current Systems Management Engineer Examination. l) Systems Auditor Examination (Level 4) The scope of this examination is almost equivalent to that of the current Systems Auditor Examination. To foster systems auditors capable of coping with increasingly sophisticated
and diverse information technologies, the new examination demands a broader and deeper understanding of information technology. Embedded systems are covered by additional multiple-choice questions. The level of the examination is almost equivalent to that of the current Systems Auditor Examination. (2) Comparison of the Scope of the Current and New Examinations Annex 2 compares the scope of the current and new examinations. For an outline of the scope of the examinations, refer to 4.2 Outline of Scope of Questions. For details of scope, refer to 8 Scope of Questions. (3) Transition of the Information Technology Engineers Examination System The Information Technology Engineers Examination was established in 1969 as a national examination administered by the former Ministry of International Trade and Industry. Since then, it has undergone three major revisions to accommodate the needs of the age and the advancement and changes in information technology. For reference, Annex 1 presents the transition of the examination system, from its inception in 1969 to the upcoming revision, including information on the revisions in 1994 and 2001.
2.4
Considerations for Questions in the New Examinations
(1) Corresponding to a Wide Range of Human Resource Models The IT Passport Examination, Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination, and Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination are consistent with the five human resource groups described in the Common Career/Skill Framework, and include a variety of questions from the fields of technology, management, and strategy. a) IT Passport Examination The examination is structured on the basis that it is designed to test basic knowledge that all business workers should possess. In the strategy field, the examinee is tested on his/her knowledge of fundamental terminology and concepts, etc. required for analysis related to computerization and corporate activities, the content of the high school information technology course, and fundamental terminology and concepts, etc. used in commonly read newspapers, books, and magazines, etc. There also are questions concerning methods for grasping and analyzing familiar tasks, and resolving issues, as well as basic knowledge for utilizing office tools for data analysis and problem solving. In the management field, the examinee is tested on his/her knowledge of fundamental terminology and concepts, etc. related to system development and project management processes, but not on specific terminology and concepts, etc. that require a high degree of expertise. There
also are questions that test basic knowledge required to consider improving the task environment using computers, networks, office tools, etc. In the technology field, the examinee is tested on his/her knowledge of fundamental terminology and concepts, etc, as well as on logical thinking, but not on fields that would require a high degree of technological expertise. Furthermore, there are questions of fundamental knowledge on the safe use of familiar systems. b) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination Since the Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination targets both solution providers and basic strategists, the questions evenly cover a broad field of technology, management, and strategy. The proportion of software development (programming) questions is reduced in comparison to the current Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination, with the number of questions 1 instead of 2. Furthermore, while the current examination targets solution providers and allows the examinee to select from four programming languages (C, COBOL, Java5, and assembly), the new examination expands the target to include basic strategists and user-side human resources that may not require programming skills, and is revised to add questions to test logical thinking skills using spreadsheets as a subject enabling to select questions other than programming languages. c) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination While the current Software Design & Development Engineer Examination specifically targets software developers, the Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination targets all five human resource models, and hence covers a much wider range of questions. However, as the examination is designed for those who have decided on the path they are taking as an advanced IT human resource, the examination evenly covers the fields of technology, management, and strategy, allowing both strategists and solution providers to select the questions that best fit their tasks in charge and area of expertise. (2) Questions Regarding Knowledge of User Tasks and a Wide Range of Industries In order to develop superior software products (module products) that incorporate know-how of user tasks, or to improve task processes by utilizing such products, human resources with a thorough understanding of user tasks are expected. Considering the above, the Information Technology Strategist Examination, Systems Architect Examination, and Systems Auditor Examination in particular include questions that demand specific solutions to issues experienced by user companies and organizations such as the financial, manufacturing, distribution, and public services industries. Furthermore, in response to the increasing importance of utilizing information technology
Java is a trademark or registered trademark of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the U.S.A and other countries.
solutions in various task areas, there are more questions concerning industries that have previously received little coverage, such as medicine and transportation. (3) Questions from Users' Standpoint In response to the unification of vendor-side and user-side human resources, there are an increased number of questions presented from the users standpoint, for example on RFP (request for proposal) writing, estimation methods, contract-related knowledge, and outsourcing management. (4) Questions Related to Embedded Systems In response to the increasing importance of knowledge and skills related to embedded systems, questions on embedded systems are widely incorporated, not only into the Embedded Systems Specialist Examination, but into all examination categories. (5) Questions Related to System Audits In a world where information technology is penetrating into every aspect of our economic activities and increasingly becoming a social infrastructure, a systems auditor must understand information technology precisely in order to contribute to the improvement of IT governance and assurance of compliance. The Systems Auditor Examination aims to foster systems auditors capable of coping with increasingly sophisticated and diverse information technologies, and hence questions demand a broader and deeper understanding of information technology than the current Systems Auditor Examination.
3 Details of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination

3.1
The Human Resource Models (Tasks and Roles, Expected Technology Level, Corresponding Level) Corresponding to Each Examination Category The tasks and roles, expected technology level, and corresponding levels for each examination category are shown below. (1) IT Passport Examination
Individuals who have acquired common basic knowledge of information technology that a business worker should possess, and utilize information technology in their tasks as well as perform the following activities: Tasks and a) Understand information devices and systems to use, and utilize them. Roles b) Understand the tasks in charge, identify problems of those tasks, and act to provide required solutions. c) Perform acquisition and utilization of information safely. d) Support task analysis and systemization activities under the guidance of superiors. The following basic knowledge is required as a business worker in order to determine information devices and systems, and to perform his/her tasks in charge as well as facilitate systemization. a) Knowledge of computer systems and networks to determine the information devices and systems to use, and knowledge of how to utilize office tools. Expected b) Knowledge of corporate activity and related tasks in order to understand the tasks in Technology charge. Also, in order to identify issues of the tasks in charge and provide required Level solutions, systematic thinking and logical thinking as well as knowledge of problem analysis and problem solving methodologies are required. c) Ability to act in accordance with relevant laws and regulations as well as various information security provisions in order to utilize information safely. d) Knowledge of development and operations of information systems in order to support analysis and systemization of tasks. Corresponds with Level 1 of the Common Career/Skill Framework for the 5 Human Corresponding Resource Models (Strategist, Systems Architect, Service Manager, Project Manager, and Level Technical Specialist)
(2) Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination

Individuals engaged in the planning of basic strategy or in the implementation of IT solutions, products or services, and who perform either of the following activities under the guidance of superiors. 1. Participate in strategic planning that utilizes information technology in response to issues that a consumer (company management, social system) faces. 2. Build a highly reliable and productive system through design and development of systems, or through optimally combining (integrating) generic products. Also, contribute to the realization of stable operational services of systems. 1. With regard to strategic planning utilizing information technology, the following knowledge and skills are required, depending on the tasks in charge. a) Understanding of the basics of target business fields and tasks and capability to utilize this understanding in his/her tasks in charge. b) Capability to perform projection, analysis and evaluation of information strategies under the guidance of superiors.
Tasks and Roles
Expected Technology Level
c) Capability to participate in making proposals under the guidance of superiors. 2. With regard to design, development and operation of systems, the following knowledge and skills are required depending on the tasks in charge. a) Understanding of the basics of information technology in general and capability to utilize this understanding in his/her tasks in charge. b) Capability to design, develop and operate systems under the guidance of superiors. c) Capability to design software under the guidance of superiors. d) Understanding of policies of superiors and ability to develop software on his/her own. Corresponds with Level 2 of the Common Career/Skill Framework for the 5 Human Corresponding Resource Models (Strategist, Systems Architect, Service Manager, Project Manager, and Level Technical Specialist) * Examination questions correspond to either: 1. Basic strategist or 2. Solution provider as outlined in Tasks and Roles and Expected Technology Level. As such, in the Afternoon Examinations, there are multiple-choice questions for each technological area. For more information, refer to Annex 3 Breakdown of the Number of Questions per Field in the Afternoon Examination.
(3) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination

Individuals engaged in the planning of basic strategy or the implementation of IT solutions, products or services, and who perform either of the following activities independently. 1. Devise strategy that utilizes information technology in response to issues that a consumer (company management, social system) faces. 2. Construct a highly reliable, productive system through the design and development of systems, or through optimally combining (integrating) generic products. Also realize stable operational services of systems. 1. With regard to strategic planning that utilizes information technology, the following knowledge and skills are required, depending on the tasks in charge. a) Capability to understand the managements policies, accurately grasp the external environment surrounding the management, and collect trend information and case studies when formulating business and IT strategies. b) Capability to conduct gap analysis, etc. based on predetermined monitoring indicators when evaluating management and IT strategies. c) Capability to participate in discussing proposals and making parts of proposal documents.
Tasks and Roles
2. With regard to system design, development and operation, the following knowledge and skills are required depending on the tasks in charge. a) Capability to organize system requirements and conduct surveys of applicable technologies when designing architectures. b) Capability to ensure stable operation and provision of services in the field concerned as a member of teams such as administration, operation, and service desk teams. c) Capability to manage scope, budget, process, quality, etc. as a project member under a project manager (leader). d) Capability to understand the policies of superiors and solve technical problems spontaneously with regard to the design, development, operation, and maintenance of information systems, networks, databases, embedded systems, etc. Corresponding Corresponds with Level 3 of the Common Career/Skill Framework for the 5 Human
Level
Resource Models (Strategist, Systems Architect, Service Manager, Project Manager, and Technical Specialist)
* Examination questions correspond to either: 1. Basic strategist or 2. Solution provider as outlined in Tasks and Roles and Expected Technology Level. As such, in the Afternoon Examinations, there is a choice of questions for each technological area. For more information, refer to Annex 3 Breakdown of Number of Questions per Field in the Afternoon Examination.
(4) Information Technology Strategist Examination

Individuals engaged in the planning, promotion, or support of business innovation, operational process innovation, development of innovative products and services utilizing information technology, and who take a leading role in the following while guiding subordinates. a) In accordance with the characteristics of businesses in different industry fields, formulate business strategies utilizing information technology in order to realize management strategies, and evaluate implementation results. b) In accordance with the characteristics of the businesses in different industry fields, formulate information system strategies and overall systemization plans for realizing business strategies, and evaluate implementation results. c) Formulate concepts and plans for individual systemization to realize information system strategies, and evaluate implementation results. d) Considering the prerequisites and constraints of each business, manage the execution of reform programs comprising multiple individual projects in order to realize information system strategies. e) As well as formulating development strategies for embedded systems, supervise the lifecycle covering development, construction, maintenance, etc. The following knowledge and practical ability are required to execute the formulation, proposal, and promotion of basic strategies utilizing information technology in sections such as business planning, the promotion of operational process innovation, computerization planning, and product and service planning. a) Capability to advise on the analysis of the business environment, the analysis of information technology trends, and the formulation of business models as well as capability to formulate or support business strategies. Also, capability to evaluate the achievement level of the business strategies and provide feedback to management. b) Capability to conduct surveys and analysis of the target business and task environment, and formulate information system strategies and overall systemization plans. Also, capability to evaluate information system strategies and overall systemization plans. c) Capability to conduct survey and analysis of the target business and task environment, formulate concepts and plans for systemization of individual systems based on overall systemization plans, and procure appropriate individual systems. Also, capability to evaluate the implementation results of the systemization concepts and plans. d) Capability to understand the prerequisites for implementing information system strategies and reform programs, and monitor and control the realization of information system strategies. Also, capability to perform causal analysis, formulate and implement countermeasures, etc. with regard to the risks in the realization of information system strategies. e) With regard to the development of new embedded systems, capability to plan competitive systems based on analysis of related technology trends, social constraints
Tasks and Roles
and needs, intellectual property, etc. Also, capability to formulate and promote deployment strategies and development strategies in accordance with added values, extensibility, flexibility, etc. Corresponding Prerequisite for Level 4 of the Common Career/Skill Framework Human Resource Model Level of a Strategist
(5) Systems Architect Examination

[Information Systems] Individuals engaged in the structure design of information systems for the realization of information system strategies, the requirements definition needed for development, the design of system methods and the development of information systems, and who take a leading role in the following while guiding subordinates. a) Design the structure of the target information system from the perspective of overall optimization in order to realize information system strategies. b) Analyze, organize and document the requirements needed for the development of target information systems, in order to realize overall systemization plans and the individual systemization concepts and plans. c) Design optimal system methods for realizing the requirements of target information systems. d) Based on the requirements and the designed system methods, conduct review of the design, development, testing, operation, and maintenance of software that satisfy the required quality, and develop the target information systems. However, for specific technologies such as databases, networks, etc, accept support from specialists when necessary. e) Evaluate target information systems and the effectiveness thereof. [Embedded Systems] Individuals engaged in the survey and analysis of embedded system requirements, deciding functional specifications, and documenting the required specifications for hardware and software, and who take a leading role in the following while guiding subordinates. a) Based on the conceptions and development plans for embedded systems, survey and analyze the functional requirements, technical requirements, environmental prerequisites, and quality requirements and determine the functional specifications of target embedded systems. b) Consider the assignment of functions to hardware and software to realize functional specifications, design optimal system architecture, and compile the required specifications for hardware and software. c) Formulate policies regarding the validity of introducing generic modules and the possibilities of reusing software assets that have already been developed. The following knowledge and practical skills are required to smoothly execute the tasks and roles of Systems Architect. [Information Systems] a) Capability to correctly understand information system strategies and consider the overall organization of task models and information systems. b) Capability to utilize both specialist knowledge of all types of task processes and knowledge of systems, and to propose appropriate systems. c) Capability to make abstractions (models) of a companys business activities and reconstruct them into a form in which information technology can be applied.
Tasks and Roles
d) Knowledge about best practices for each industry, the status of task processes in major companies, and the task processes in many user companies of the same industry, specialist knowledge of each different industry, knowledge of industry specific practices, etc. e) Knowledge related to generic systems such as information system implementation methods, development methods, and software packages, and capability to select and apply them appropriately. f) Knowledge about basic elemental technologies with regard to operating systems, databases, networks, etc. and capability to construct and maintain appropriate information systems, considering the technological risks and effects of those technologies. g) Capability to establish appropriate evaluation criteria for the system operation, task operation, investment effects and task effects of information systems, and analyze and evaluate the systems. h) Capability to consider generalization of software and system services, bearing in mind the possibility of deployment to many companies. [Embedded Systems] a) Capability to examine environmental conditions and quality requirements such as safety of where the target embedded systems are used, and determine the functional specifications that should be realized. b) Capability to design appropriate combinations of hardware and software based on the functional specifications of target embedded systems and compile the designs as separate requirement specifications. c) Thorough knowledge about real time operating systems and knowledge of generic modules, and capability to consider the possibility of reusing software assets and utilizing them appropriately. Corresponding Prerequisite for Level 4 of the Common Career/Skill Framework Human Resource Models Level of Systems Architects and Technical Specialists
(6) Project Manager Examination

Individuals engaged in the planning, execution and management of system development projects as the person in charge of the project, and who take a leading role in the following while guiding subordinates. a) Support the formulation of individual systemization concepts and plans as required, and prepare project plans for the execution of the relevant projects based on the individual systemization concepts and plans that were formulated. b) Secure necessary personnel and resources, and establish project organizations. c) Manage budget, process, quality, etc. and run the project smoothly. Keep track of the state of progress, pick up and recognize problems and anticipated future issues at an early stage, and implement appropriate measures and actions to achieve project goals. d) Report appropriately to senior members and stakeholders on the project execution plans, state of progress, issues, countermeasures, etc, and obtain support and cooperation to run the project smoothly. e) Analyze and evaluate the project plans and achievements at the end of each stage and at the end of projects, or as needed and reflect these in subsequent operations of the projects as well as provide them as reference models for other projects. The following knowledge and practical skills are required to smoothly execute the tasks and roles of Project Manager.
Tasks and Roles
Expected Technology
a) Understanding of the basics regarding organization management and IT systems. b) Capability to correctly understand the expectations towards the individual systemization concepts and plans as well as the projects, and prepare feasible project plans. c) Capability to reliably accomplish project goals under the prerequisites and constraints. d) Capability to manage personnel, resources, budget, process, quality, etc, unify overall understanding of the project, and run the project. e) Capability to understand the state of progress of the project and anticipated risks at an early stage, and deal with them appropriately. f) Capability to appropriately analyze and evaluate project plans and achievements. Also, capability to utilize the results in the subsequent operation of the projects as well as provide them as reference for other projects. Corresponding Prerequisite for Level 4 of the Common Career/Skill Framework Human Resource Model Level of a Project Manager
Level
(7) Network Specialist Examination

Individuals engaged in planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance work for network systems, and who take a leading role in the following while guiding subordinates. a) As network administrator, manage network resources which comprise the foundation Tasks and of information systems. Roles b) Analyze requirements of the network systems and perform the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance considering efficiency, reliability, and safety. c) Provide network related technical support for the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance of information systems. The following knowledge and practical skills are required in order to construct and maintain network systems that conform to objectives. a) Capability to foresee the trend of network technologies and services, and select applicable technologies and services according to objectives. b) Capability to understand precisely the requirements of the company, organization or Expected individual applications, and create requirement specifications of network systems. Technology c) Capability to evaluate design techniques such as modeling, protocol technology, Level reliability design, security technology, network services, and costs etc. that relate to the requirements specifications, and create optimal logical designs and physical designs. d) Capability to utilize network related companies (telecommunications companies, vendors, construction firms, etc.), and construct and operate network systems. Corresponding Prerequisite for Level 4 of the Common Career/Skill Framework Human Resource Model Level of a Technical Specialist
(8) Database Specialist Examination

Individuals engaged in the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance work for data resources and databases, and who take a leading role in the following while guiding subordinates. a) As data administrator, manage data resources for the entire information system. b) Analyze requirements of the database systems and perform planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance considering efficiency,
Tasks and Roles
reliability, and safety. c) Provide database related technical support for the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance of individual system development. The following knowledge and practical skills are required for the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance of high quality databases. a) Capability to foresee the trend of database technologies, and select applicable technologies according to objectives. b) Capability to understand the purposes and techniques of data resource management, Expected and perform standardization of data parts as well as conduct the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance of repository Technology Level systems. c) Capability to understand data modeling techniques, conduct data analysis based on user requirements, and create accurate conceptual data models. d) Capability to understand the characteristics of database management systems, and conduct planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance of high quality databases. Corresponding Prerequisite for Level 4 of the Common Career/Skill Framework Human Resource Model Level of a Technical Specialist
(9) Embedded Systems Specialist Examination

Individuals engaged in the development, implementation, and testing in the development process of embedded systems based on hardware and software requirement specifications of the embedded systems, and who take a leading role in the following while guiding subordinates. a) Balance the division of functions based on trade-offs between hardware and software that realize optimal functional specifications and realtime processing in embedded systems, and create design and specification documents. Tasks and Roles b) Lead the execution of tasks of each stage in the embedded systems development process. c) Based on advanced specialist knowledge and development experiences in specific technology and product fields, obtain technical knowledge from experts in the relevant development fields, and incorporate the knowledge into each stage of the development processes. d) Prepare and improve the development environment for performing development. The following knowledge and practical skills are required to appropriately decompose the required functions, performance, quality, reliability, security, etc. into hardware and software requirements and realize an optimal embedded system. a) Capability to realize appropriate combinations of hardware and software based on functional specifications and lead the execution of each stage of embedded system Expected development processes. Technology c) Capability to obtain technical knowledge from experts in the relevant development Level fields and incorporate the knowledge into each stage of the embedded system development processes, based on advanced specialist knowledge and development experiences in specific technology and product fields. c) Capability to construct and improve effective development environments for performing embedded system development. Corresponding Prerequisite for Level 4 of the Common Career/Skill Framework Human Resource Model Level of a Technical Specialist
(10) Information Security Specialist Examination

Individuals engaged in promotion or support tasks for the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance of security functions, or the preparation of secure information system foundations, and who take a leading role in the following while guiding subordinates. a) Analyze and evaluate threats and vulnerabilities to information systems and promote or support the planning, requirements definition, and development of security functions that appropriately avoid or prevent these. Tasks and b) Analyze the threats to information systems during development projects of Roles information systems or security functions, and support project management appropriately. c) Support security administration from a technical side in dealing with security violations, application of security patches, and other information system operation processes. d) Support information security management sections such as in the creation of information security policies and the education of users. As an information security technology specialist, the following knowledge and practical skills are required to apply information security technology in cooperation with other specialists as well as for the planning, requirements definition, development, operation, and maintenance of secure information systems. a) Capability to conduct risk analysis of information systems or information system infrastructures, and extract concrete information security requirements compliant with information security policies. b) For information security measures, basic skills and application skills for multiple specific areas with regard to technological measures, and capability to apply these skills to target systems as well as evaluating their effects. c) For information security measures, basic knowledge and techniques for applicable cases with regard to physical and administrative measures, and capability to understand the basic approaches to information security management, detailed Expected knowledge of cases where the approaches are applicable, and capability to evaluate Technology them. Level d) For information technology knowledge, basic knowledge of networks, databases, and system development environments, and capability to select necessary elemental technology including encryption, authentication, filtering, and logging in order to ensure confidentiality, accountability, etc. of information systems. e) Basic knowledge as well as knowledge and experience of specific application examples of process management and quality control for information system development. f) Basic knowledge regarding information security policies, and capability to support information security management sections in policy formulation and user education, etc. g) Basic knowledge of information security related legal requirements, etc. and capability to apply them. Corresponding Prerequisite for Level 4 of the Common Career/Skill Framework Human Resource Model Level of a Technical Specialist
(11) Information Technology Service Manager Examination

Tasks and Roles Individuals engaged in the management of IT services with the objective of continually improving their quality and cost efficiency, and who take a leading role in the following
while guiding subordinates. a) Prepare and execute the processes of service support and service delivery as a leader of teams such as operation management, operation, and service desk teams, and provides IT services to customers at optimal quality and cost. b) Conduct acceptance, operation, etc. of systems within the lifecycle management of applications. Also provide stable information system infrastructures including development environments, and conduct efficient operation management of systems. c) Conduct continual improvement of IT services and management processes. Report the state of implementation of IT services to customers, as well as make efforts to improve customer satisfaction. d) Conduct the operation and management of information security policies and the controlling of information security incidents, and effectively manage information security during IT service activities. e) Conduct installation of hardware that matches customer facility requirements, installation of software, customization, maintenance, and repair. Also, conduct facility management of data centers. The following knowledge and practical skills are required to smoothly execute the tasks and role of IT Service Manager. a) Capability to provide IT services by understanding and implementing the objectives and contents of each of the process in service support and service delivery. b) Capability to implement system operation control, operation methods in case of an incident, performance management, and configuration management. Management techniques required for system operation management such as incident management, Expected configuration management, account management, and performance management, and capability to maintain the quality of information system infrastructures. Technology c) Capability to prepare a plan, implement and evaluate improvement measures for IT Level services as well as provide high quality service reports to customers. d) Knowledge and techniques required to implement highly effective information security measures, and capability to operate and manage information security. e) Capability to install, set up, maintain, and extend functions, and recover from incidents with the aim of stable operation of hardware and software that has been or is to be installed. Also, knowledge relating to the safety management of data centers and capability to execute facility management. Corresponding Prerequisite for Level 4 of the Common Career/Skill Framework Human Resource Model Level for a Service Manager
(12) Systems Auditor Examination

Individuals engaged in the audit of information systems and embedded systems from a position independent of auditees, and who take a leading role in the following while guiding subordinates. a) Analyze the risks involved in information systems and embedded systems based on broad and thorough knowledge of information systems, embedded systems and their planning, development, operation and maintenance, and understand the necessary controls. b) By verifying or evaluating the controls relating to information systems and embedded systems, either provide endorsements or advice, and contribute to the improvement of IT governance and securement of compliance. c) Prepare audit plans to implement b) and perform audits. Also, report audit results to top management and the relevant people, and perform follow-ups.
Tasks and Roles
The following knowledge and practical skills are required to promote enhancements so that information systems and embedded systems are utilized appropriately and safely, and to contribute to the improvement of IT governance and securing of compliance. a) Broad and thorough knowledge of information systems, embedded systems and their planning, development, operation and maintenance as well as specialist knowledge related to the risks and controls of realizing those objectives and functions. b) Capability to evaluate the task processes to which the information systems and embedded systems are applied and the risk to the company strategies, as well as capability to clarify issues of the controls in place and establish decision criteria to Expected analyze and evaluate the issues. Technology c) Capability to prepare audit plans in accordance with business requirements, Level management policies, regulations, guidelines, contracts, and internal rules for information security, and protection of privacy and internal controls, etc. in order to contribute to the improvement of IT governance and securing of compliance, etc, as well as appropriately managing audit tasks based on plans. d) Capability to apply auditing techniques in a timely and precise manner in order to implement effective and efficient auditing procedures at the planning, development, and operation stages of information systems and embedded systems. e) Capability to put together audit results as logical reports based on facts, provide valuable and convincing recommendations, and perform follow-ups. Corresponding Prerequisite for Level 4 of the Common Career/Skill Framework Human Resource Model Level for a Service Manager
4 Configuration and Grading of Examinations

4.1
Examination Time, Type, and Number of Questions and Answers Table 5 shows the time, type, and number of questions and answers for each examination. Table 5 Time, Type, and Number of Questions and Answers for Each Examination.
(165 mins) No. of Qs Exam Type No. of As Multiple-Choice 100 (1 from 4) 100 Morning 9:30~12:00 (150 mins) No. of Qs Exam Type No. of As Afternoon 13:00~15:30 (150 mins) No. of Qs Exam Type No. of As
Examination Category IT Passport Examination
Examination Category
Fundamental Information Multiple-Choice 80 Multiple13 (Note) Technology Engineer 7 (1 from 4) 80 Choice Examination Applied Information Technology Multiple-Choice 80 12 (Note) Short Answer 6 Engineer Examination (1 from 4) 80 (Note) For details of questions in each field of the Afternoon Examination in the Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination and Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination, see Annex 3. Morning I 9:30~10:20 (50 mins) Exam Type Information Technology Strategist Examination Systems Architect Examination Project Manager Examination Network Specialist Examination Database Specialist Examination Embedded Systems Specialist Examination Information Security Specialist Examination Information Technology Service Manager Exam MultipleChoice (1 from 4) Common Questions Advanced Examinations No. of Qs No. of As Morning II 10:50~11:30 (40 mins) Exam Type Multiple-Choice (1 from 4) Multiple-Choice (1 from 4) Multiple-Choice (1 from 4) Multiple-Choice (1 from 4) 30 30 Multiple-Choice (1 from 4) Multiple-Choice (1 from 4) Multiple-Choice (1 from 4) Multiple-Choice (1 from 4) Afternoon I 12:30~14:00 (90 mins) Afternoon II (Note) 14:30~16:30 (120 mins)
No. of Qs Exam No. of Qs Exam No. of Qs No. of As Type No. of As Type No. of As 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 Short Answer Short Answer Short Answer Short Answer Short Answer Short Answer Short Answer Short Answer 4 2 4 2 4 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 4 2 4 2 Essay Essay Essay Short Answer Short Answer Short Answer Short Answer Essay 3 1 3 1 3 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 3 1
Multiple-Choice Systems Auditor 25 Short 4 3 Essay (1 from 4) Examination 25 Answer 2 1 (Note) In the Afternoon II Examination, the essay type indicates the essay (short essay) type of the current examination, and the short answer type indicates the essay (case analysis) type in the current examination.
4.2
Outline of the Scope of Questions
a) The scope of the questions is compliant with the Common Career/Skill Framework. To pursue consistency between the Information Technology Engineers Examination and each of ITSS, ETSS, and UISS human resource skill standards, a detailed discussion has been held to refine the Common Career/Skill Framework, and under the direction of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, necessary changes have been made to the major and middle categories as shown in the HRD-WG Report ( Appendix 1 ). For details of these changes, refer to Table 14 List of Question Fields by Examination Category and Table 15 Scope of Morning Questions. b) The IT Passport Examination tests the minimum required basic knowledge for business workers involved in information technology. The Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination tests basic knowledge and skills required for the development of individuals aiming to be an advanced IT human resource. The Applied Information Technology Examination tests applied knowledge and skills required to become an advanced IT human resource. The Advanced Examination tests advanced, specialist knowledge and skills related to information technology and tasks required for advanced IT human resources (Basic Configuration of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination in Appendix 1 HRD-WG Report). c) The IT Passport Examination and the Morning Examination evaluate by testing knowledge indicated in the Common Career/Skill Framework to find whether the examinees skill reaches the expected technology level in the relevant examination category. d) The Afternoon Examination evaluates by testing problem finding ability, abstraction ability and problem solving ability, etc. gained from reflection on experiences and the combination of knowledge indicated in the Common Career/Skill Framework to find whether the examinees skills reach the expected technology level for the relevant examination category. The questions in the Afternoon Examinations are basically written in a format which lists the situations where skills are applied for each task and process. e) For details regarding the scope of questions, refer to 8 Scope of Questions.
4.3
Grading Method, Points Allocation and Pass Criteria
a) Raw points are be used as the grading method for all examination categories and for all time slots6. b) The pass criteria for each examination are as follows: In the IT Passport Examination, if the total points (total from all fields) and the points in each field (points for the 3 fields of Strategy, Management, and Technology) are all above the
6
In the IT Passport Examination, points will initially be given as raw points, but data will be collected and analyzed as the examination is conducted and a statistical method will be introduced at a later stage when preparations are in place.
required standard then a pass is awarded. In the Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination, Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination, and Advanced Examination a pass is awarded if points in each of the time slots (Morning, Afternoon, Morning I, Morning II, Afternoon I, and Afternoon II Examinations in Table 6) are all over the required standard. A certificate is granted to successful candidates from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry. On the IT Passport Examination Certificate, points are indicated. c) The points allocation (100%) and pass points are shown in Table 6. Table 6 Points Allocation and Pass Points for Each Examination Category
Time Slot Point 1,000 total points Pass Points Total points (of all fields): 60% Points in each field: 30%
Examination Category IT Passport Examination
Time Slot Point Allocation Pass Points 60% Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination Morning 100 total points Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination Afternoon 100 total points 60% Information Technology Strategist Examination Morning I Systems Architect Examination Morning II Project Manager Examination Afternoon Information Technology Service Manager Examination Afternoon Systems Auditor Examination Morning I Network Specialist Examination Morning II Database Specialist Examination Embedded Systems Specialist Examination Afternoon Information Security Specialist Examination Afternoon 100 total points 60% 100 total points 60% 100 total points 60% Rank A (Note) 100 total points 60% 100 total points 60% 100 total points 60% 100 total points 60% Advanced Examinations
(Note) Evaluation Method for the Afternoon II Examination (essay type) The content of the essay is evaluated from evaluation view points such as sufficiency of the points required by the question, specificity of the essay, validity of content, consistency of logic, assertions based on insights, perceptiveness/ability to take action, originality/far-sightedness, and presentation and composition ability. Also, if the essay content does not adhere to the Instructions for Answering in the questions booklet, evaluation may be lowered depending on the extent of deviation, despite the content of the essay. The relationship between the evaluation ranks and pass & fail are shown in Table 7.
Table 7 Evaluation Ranks and Pass/Fail Relationship of Afternoon II Examination (Essay Type)
Evaluation Rank A B C D Content Satisfies passing level Falls just short of passing level Content is insufficient Deviates significantly from the requirements of the question Pass/Fail Pass Fail
d) The Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination and Advanced Examination employ a Multi-Stage Selection Method as follows: <Applied Information Technology Examination> If points in the Morning Examination do not reach the pass level, the Afternoon Examination is not graded and the candidate fails. <Advanced Examinations Exam Categories> If points in the Morning I Examination do not reach the pass level, the Morning II, Afternoon I, and Afternoon II Examinations is not graded and the candidate fails. If points in the Morning II Examination do not reach the pass level, the Afternoon I and Afternoon II Examinations is not graded and the candidate fails. If points in the Afternoon I Examination do not reach the pass level, the Afternoon II Examination is not graded and the candidate fails.
5 Examination Implementation
5.1
Implementation Schedule of the New Examination System Giving sufficient consideration to the time for preparation and familiarization so that companies and schools that use the examinations can adapt to the new examination system, all examinations of the new system are supposed to be implemented from spring 2009. Since the IT Passport Examination is the first attempt to introduce CBT methodology into a national examination, careful preparation is needed to conduct CBT method examinations in a steady and stable manner while ensuring the three examination principles: Fairness, Reliability, and Validity. Therefore, the examination is initially done on paper. While accumulating sufficient data in parallel, and upon constructing a safe and accurate framework, CBT methodology is intended to be introduced fully in 2011. Of the current categories, the Systems Administrator Examination is supposed to continue to be conducted until the spring of 2009 (Table 8). Table 8 New Examination System Implementation Schedule Implementation Period Content Fall 2008 Examinations Fall examinations of the current examination system are supposed to be conducted. Spring 2009 Examinations Spring examinations of the new examination system are supposed to be conducted. The System Administrator Examination of the current examination categories is supposed to be conducted. Examinations in Fall 2009 All examinations in the new examination system are supposed to and Later be conducted.
5.2
Implementation Method and Period of Examinations
a) All examinations are supposed to be conducted on paper. For the IT Passport Examination, CBT methodology is intended to be introduced in 2011. b) The implementation period of the examinations is shown in Table 9. The IT Passport Examination, Fundamental Information Technology Examination, Applied Information Technology Examination, and Information Security Specialist Examination are supposed to be conducted twice a year in spring and fall (3rd Sunday in April and October), and the other examinations are to be conducted once a year in either spring or fall.
Implementation Period of Each Examination Category Examination Category Period IT Passport Examination Spring Fall Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination Spring Fall Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination Spring Fall Information Technology Strategist Examination Fall Systems Architect Examination Fall Product Manager Examination Spring Network Specialist Examination Fall Database Specialist Examination Spring Embedded Systems Specialist Examination Spring Information Security Specialist Examination Spring Fall Information Technology Service Manager Examination Fall Systems Auditor Examination Spring
Table 9
The current Project Manager Examination is conducted in the fall but the new Project Manager Examination is to be conducted in the spring. Also, the current Systems Management Engineer Examination is conducted in spring but the Information Technology Service Manager Examination is to be conducted in fall. The reasons for this are as follows: 1) To increase the opportunity for successful candidates in an Advanced Examination to attempt other Advanced Examinations. 2) To achieve smooth implementation of examinations by equalizing the number of examinees in spring and fall as much as possible.
Advanced Examinations
5.3
Exemption System
(1) Introduction of Exemption System for a Part of the Morning Exam in the Advanced Examination The Morning Exam of the Advanced Examination employs the skill set methodology, and is split into the Morning I Examination which tests knowledge required in common for the Advanced Examination and the Morning II Examination which tests specialist knowledge of the relevant examination category. If one of the conditions 1~3 below is satisfied, the candidate is to be exempt from sitting the Morning I Examination for 2 years with the intention of improving convenience for examinees and encouraging them to take the Advanced Examination (Figure 6). Condition 1: Pass in the Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination. Condition 2: Pass in one of the Advanced Examinations. Condition 3: Has gained a grade surpassing the pass points in one of the Advanced Morning I Examinations.
Advanced Exam A Afternoon II Afternoon I Morning II (Specialist) Morning I (Compulsory)
Advanced Exam B Afternoon II Afternoon I Morning II Specialist Morning I (Compulsory)
Advanced Exam C Afternoon II Afternoon I Morning II (Specialist) Morning I (Compulsory) Regular Candidates ...
Exempted Passed the Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination Candidates Passed Advanced Examination Gained a grade over the pass points in the Advanced Morning I Examination
Figure 6 (2)
Exemption System for Part of the Morning Advanced Examination
Exemption System Interim Measures for Successful Candidates in the Current Examinations Interim measures are to be taken as a limited, temporary step at the time of the transition of the examination system for all those eligible for the exemption system implemented for successful candidates of the current examination system (Table 10 and Figure 7).
Table 10 Exemption System for Successful Candidates of Current Examinations Candidates (Eligibility and Exemption)
Eligibility a) A pass in the Software Design & Development Engineer Examination (SW) A pass in one of the following examination categories: System Analyst Examination (AN) Product Manager Examination (PM) Application Systems Engineer Examination (AE) Exemption The Morning Examination of one of the following examination categories: Systems Analyst Examination Product Manager Examination Application Systems Engineer Examination
b)
Of these, a pass in (a) the Software Design & Development Engineer Examination is treated as a pass in the Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination, and a pass in (b) the System Analyst Examination, Project Manager Examination, or Application Systems Engineer Examination is treated as a pass in the Advanced Examination. After the start of the new examination system in spring 2009, the exemption system is to be applied to all eligible candidates. These interim measures are intended for those who already have qualified for the exemption system at the time of the start of the new examination system in spring 2009. The period of validity of this exemption system is 2 years from the start of the year in which a pass is achieved. Therefore those eligible for the interim measures are candidates who passed in the spring or fall of 2008. Either is to be exempt from taking the Advanced Morning I Examination in spring and fall 2009.
Figure 7 Exemption System Interim Measures for Successful Candidates in the Current Examinations (3) Exemption System Interim Measures for Individuals that have Completed Authorized Courses in the Current Examination System Interim measures are to be taken for the exemption system (nationwide)7for those who have completed an authorized course based on the Information Technology Engineer Examination rules as a limited, temporary step at the time of transition of the examination system. If certification of completion is to be granted after April 1, 2008 for the Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Exam (FE) authorized courses that have already been authorized, course plans and other matters regarding the difference in the course items in the current and new examinations are to be submitted. An examination equivalent to the Systems Administrator Examination (AD) is supposed to no longer exist in the new examination system and therefore the exemption system for Systems Administrator Examination authorized courses that have already been authorized is supposed to cease as of spring 2009 (Figure 8).
From regulations Clause 2, Articles 5 and 6 in the Japan Information Technology Engineers Examination Rules (Ministry Ordinance No. 59 issued in 1970 by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry).
2007 Dec
Jan
April Current Exam Exempt
2008 June July
Oct Current Exam Exempt
Dec
Jan
April New Exam
2009 Jun July
Oct New Exam
FE
Completion
Completion Completion Exempt Completion
Exempt Exempt Exempt Completion
Exempt
AD
Exempt Exempt End
Figure 8
Exemption System Interim Measures for Individuals that have Completed Authorized Courses in the Current Examination System
Note that the exemption system8 interim measures for those who have completed authorized courses based on the Structural Reform Special District System are to be discussed separately. (4) Authorized Course Exemption System in the New Examination System The authorization of certification courses for the Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination under the new examination system is supposed to begin April 1, 2008 (Figure 9).
2007 Dec Jan April Current Exam 2008 Jun July Oct Current Exam Dec Jan April New Exam 2009 June July Oct New Exam
New FE
New FE Exam Authorization Completion Exempt Exempt
Figure 9
Authorized Course Exemption System in the New Examination System
5.4
Accommodating Physically Disabled Persons As in the current examinations, accessibility has been fully considered and special measures are implemented such as enlarged copies of the exam questions, braille, bringing in a word processor, accompaniment by a carer, and extension of exam time.
In accordance with the stipulations set forth in Clause 24, Article 1 and Clause 25, Article 1 of the Ordinance specifying measures regarding exceptions to the ordinance stipulated in Clause 2, Article 3 of the Structural Reform Special District Law, and the applicable specific businesses (Ministry Ordinance No. 39 issued in 2003 by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry).
6 Information Disclosure
(1) IT Passport Examination (discussions ongoing) Disclosure of information relating to the IT Passport Examination is to be as shown in Table 11. Table 11 IT Passport Examination (Paper-Based) Information Disclosure
Matter Content Matters Disclosed in Advance (Always) Grading Grading according to raw points Method (Points are initially given as raw points, but data are collected and analyzed as the examination is conducted and a statistical method is to be introduced at a later stage when preparations are in place) Pass Points Total points: 60% of full points. Points in each field: 30% of full points in each field. Matters Disclosed on Examination Day Exam Question booklet can be taken home (also published on the Examination Center Questions website) Example Correct answers Answers Matters Disclosed After Examination Implementation Individuals Pass/fails, total points Grades Points in each field (Strategist, Management, and Technology) Statistics Population distribution of points, document of examination results statistics (aggregated results per industry, etc.)
(2) Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination, Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination, and Advanced Examination Disclosure of information relating to the Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination, Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination, and Advanced Examination is to be as shown in Table 12. Table 12 Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination, Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination, and Advanced Examination Information Disclosure
Matter Content Matters Disclosed in Advance (Always) Grading Grading according to raw points for all examination categories and all time slots Method Multi-step selection implementation (Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination, Advanced Examination) Pass Points Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination and Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination: 60% of full points for both the Morning and Afternoon Examinations Advanced Examination: Morning I, Morning II, Afternoon I, and Afternoon II (short answer) 60% of full points, Afternoon II (essay): Rank A Matters Disclosed on Examination Day Exam Question booklet can be taken home (also published on the Examination Center Questions website) Point Distribution of points for each question in Morning I, Morning II, Afternoon, Distribution Afternoon I, and Afternoon II (short answer) Examinations Example Correct answers and intention of the questions for the multi-step selection questions Answers Matters Disclosed After Examination Implementation Example Example or essential points of the answers to the short answer questions, intention of
Matter Content Answers the questions of short answer and essay questions Matters Disclosed When Results Announced Individuals Pass/fails Grades Morning (I and II), Afternoon (I and II [short answer]) points (Reference: in the current examinations, scores based on a statistical method (Morning) and scores based on points (Afternoon), are disclosed (range of points: 200~800) Points in each field (Strategist, Management, and Technology) in the Morning Examinations (Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination and Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination) Afternoon II Examination (essay type) evaluation ranking Statistics Population distribution of points in each time slot, and population distribution per evaluation rank for the essay type Document of examination results statistics (aggregated results per industry, per task type, etc.) Matters Disclosed After Results Announced Review of Discussions, etc. of the examiners based on the trends and state of examinees answers Grading summarized in a simple document. For the Afternoon Examinations
Information disclosure schedule is to be roughly as shown in Figure 10.
Figure 10
Guide to Information Disclosure Schedule
7 Matters for Consideration

7.1
In Consideration of Future Improvements and Enhancements of the Examination System Aiming for goals such as further improvement in convenience for examinees and increased incentive for successful candidates, the following matters are to be considered: Outsourcing CBT method examination implementation to the private sector Partial exemption of examinations such as for those who complete training programs that satisfy certain requirements Registration system for successful candidates of the Advanced Examinations Issuance of a Pass Card (tentative name)
8 Scope of Questions
The scope of the examination questions is as follows.
8.1
IT Passport Examination The IT Passport Examination is a newly established examination. It is described in the Concept
of Examination Questions column in detail compared to the other examination categories (see Table 13). The IT Passport Examination consists of 100 questions and the examination duration is 165 minutes (see Table 5). Since the IT Passport Examination lays weight on common basic knowledge that is required in order to utilize information technology, around 60% of the questions are derived from the strategy field and management field. Table 13 Scope of Questions in the IT Passport Examination
Common Career/Skill Framework Scope of questions to be asked (Concept of exam questions) Field Major Category Middle Category 1 Corporate 1 Corporate - Ask about the fundamental concepts about corporate activities and and legal activities business management. - Ask about the techniques for analyzing familiar business tasks and affairs resolving issues, the concept of PDCA, and operational planning using techniques such as Pareto charts. - Ask about the visual expressions used for understanding business tasks, such as workflow. - Ask about the fundamental concepts of accounting and financial affairs, such as financial statements and break-even points. 2 Legal affairs - Ask about the familiar laws of workplaces, such as intellectual property rights (copyright, industrial property rights, etc.), Act on the Protection of Personal Information, Labor Standards Act, and Act for Securing the Proper Operation of Worker Dispatching Undertakings and Improved Working Conditions for Dispatched Workers. - Ask about the concepts and characteristics of software license, such as license types and license management. - Ask about the concepts of corporate rules and regulations, such as compliance and corporate governance. - Ask about the significance of standardization. 2 Business 3 Business - Ask about the fundamental concepts about typical management strategy strategy information analysis techniques and business management systems, management such as SWOT analysis, PPM (Product Portfolio Management), customer satisfaction, CRM, and SCM. - Ask about the fundamental concepts relevant to marketing. - Ask about the typical information analysis techniques for planning business strategies. - Ask about the understanding of the use of office tools (software packages) such as spreadsheet software, database software, etc. 4 Technological - Ask about the understanding of the significance and purpose of strategy technology development strategy. management Strategy
Common Career/Skill Framework Scope of questions to be asked (Concept of exam questions) Field Major Category Middle Category 5 Business - Ask about the characteristics of typical systems in various business industry fields such as e-commerce, POS systems, IC cards, and RFID application systems. - Ask about the characteristics of typical systems in the engineering filed and e-business. - Ask about the characteristics and trends of intelligent home appliances and embedded systems. 3 System 6 System - Ask about the significance and purpose of information system strategy strategy strategies and the concepts of strategic goals, business improvement, and problem solving. - Ask about the concepts of typical modeling in business models. - Ask about the effective use of groupware for communication and of office tools. - Ask about the purpose and concepts of increasing operational efficiency by using computers and networks. - Ask about the concepts of solutions through typical services. - Ask about the significance and purpose of the promotion and evaluation activities of system utilization. 7 System - Ask about the purpose of computerization planning. planning - Ask about the purpose of the operational requirements definition based on the analysis of current state. - Ask about the fundamental flow of procurement, such as estimates, RFPs, and proposals. 4 Development 8 System - Ask about the fundamental flow of the process of software technology development development such as requirements definition, system design, technology programming , testing, and software maintenance. - Ask about the concepts of the estimate in software development. 9 Software - Ask about the significance and purpose of typical development development methods. management techniques 5 Project 10 Project - Ask about the significance, purpose, concepts, processes, and management management methods of project management. 6 Service 11 Service - Ask about the significance, purpose, and concepts of IT service management management management. - Ask about the understanding of related matters such as help desks. - Ask about the concepts about system environment maintenance, such as computers and networks. 12 System audit - Ask about the significance, purpose, concepts, and target of system audit. - Ask about the flow of system audit, such as planning, investigating, and reporting. - Ask about the significance, purpose, and concepts of internal control and IT governance. 7 Basic theory 13 Basic theory - Ask about the fundamental concepts about radix including the characteristics and operations of binary numbers. - Ask about the fundamental concepts about sets, such as Venn diagrams, probability, and statistics. - Ask about the fundamental concepts of how to express information content, such as bits and bytes, and of digitization. 14 Algorithm and - Ask about the fundamental concepts of algorithms and data programming structures, and how to draw flow charts. - Ask about the roles of programming. - Ask about the types and fundamental usage of markup languages, such as HTML and XML. Technology Management
Common Career/Skill Framework Scope of questions to be asked (Concept of exam questions) Field Major Category Middle Category 8 Computer 15 Computer - Ask about the fundamental configuration and roles of computers. system component - Ask about the performance and fundamental mechanism of processors, and the types and characteristics of memory. - Ask about the types and characteristics of storage media. - Ask about the types and characteristics of input/output interfaces, device drivers, etc. 16 System - Ask about the characteristics of system configurations, of the types component of processing, and of the types of usage. - Ask about the characteristics of client/server systems. - Ask about the characteristics of Web systems. - Ask about the concepts of system performance, reliability, and economic efficiency. 17 Software - Ask about the necessity, functions, types, and characteristics of OSs. - Ask about the concepts and use of basic functions of file management, such as access methods and search methods, and the fundamental concepts of backups. - Ask about the characteristics and fundamental operations of software packages, such as office tools. - Ask about the characteristics of OSS (Open Source Software). 18 Hardware - Ask about the types and characteristics of computers. - Ask about the types and characteristics of input/output devices. 9 Technical 19 Human - Ask about the concept and characteristics of interface design, such as element interface GUI and menus. - Ask about the concepts of Web design. - Ask about the concepts of universal design. 20 Multimedia - Ask about the types and characteristics of encodings such as JPEG, MPEG, and MP3. - Ask about the purpose and characteristics of application of multimedia technology, such as VR (Virtual Reality) and CG (Computer Graphics). - Ask about the characteristics of media, and compression and decompression of information data. 21 Database - Ask about the significance, purpose, and concepts of database management systems (DBMS). - Ask about the concepts of data analysis and design, and the characteristics of database models. - Ask about the manipulation methods such as data extraction. - Ask about database processing methods such as exclusive control and recovery processing. 22 Network - Ask about the types and configurations of LAN and WAN regarding networks, and the roles of Internet and LAN connection devices. - Ask about the necessity of communication protocols, and the roles of typical protocols. - Ask about the characteristics and fundamental mechanism of the Internet. - Ask about the characteristics of e-mail and Internet services. - Ask about the understanding of the types and characteristics, accounting, and transmission rates of communication services, such as mobile communication and IP phones. 23 Security - Ask about the fundamentals of information security from the viewpoint of safe and secure activities in a network society. - Ask about the information assets, the purpose of risk management, and the concepts of information security policy. - Ask about the concepts, types, and characteristics of technological security measures, such as measures against computer viruses.
Common Career/Skill Framework Field Major Category Middle Category
Scope of questions to be asked (Concept of exam questions) - Ask about the concepts, types, and characteristics of physical and human security measures, such as entrance/exit control and access control. - Ask about the types and characteristics of authentication technologies such as ID, password, callback, digital signature, and biometric authentication. - Ask about the mechanisms and characteristics of encryption technology such as public keys and private keys.
8.2
Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination, Applied Information
Technology Engineers Examination, and Advanced Examination (1) Morning Examination a) Morning Examination Question Fields In the Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination and Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination, 80 questions cover a broad field of technology, management, and strategy in line with Table 14 List of Question Fields by Examination Category. There are questions from Technology Level 2 in the Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination, and from Technology Level 3 in the Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination. The Advanced Examination is composed of the Morning I Examination and the Morning II Examination. In the Morning I Examination, 30 questions of Technology Level 3, required for all examination categories, cover a broad field of technology, management, and strategy. In the Morning II Examination, there are 25 questions of Technology Level 3 or 4 specialized for each examination category, according to the marks and shown in Table 14. For example, in the Information Technology Strategist Examination, questions are taken from the middle categories marked with a or in the major categories System Strategy, Management Strategy, and Corporate and Legal Affairs of the Strategist field. This is the same for other examination categories as well. Table 15 shows the minor categories and examples of knowledge items included in each middle category of Table 14 List of Question Fields by Examination Category. b) Technology Level and Question Types of Morning Questions The Technology Levels of the Morning Examination questions shown in List of Question Fields by Examination Category have been set at 4 relative difficulty levels for each field 1, 2, 3, and 4 from the standpoint of depth and breadth of knowledge, getting wider and deeper from 1 to 4. The Morning Examination question are roughly composed of the following 4 types: (1) Basic Knowledge Level questions that examine whether the individual knows the significance, concepts, and characteristics of the target knowledge items. (2) Fundamental Knowledge Level questions that examine whether the individual understands the detailed content and methods relating to the target knowledge items. (3) Applied Knowledge Level questions that examine whether or not the individual can apply the target knowledge item. (4) Advanced Knowledge Level questions that examine whether or not the individual can apply the target knowledge items sophisticatedly. There are mainly Basic Knowledge Level questions at Technology Level 1, Fundamental Knowledge Level questions at Technology Level 2, Applied Technology Level questions
at Technology Level 3, and Advanced Technology Level questions at Technology Level 4.
Table 14
List of Question Fields by Examination Category

Advanced Examinations Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination Information Technology Passport Examination Morning II (Specialist Knowledge) Information Security Specialist Examination Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination Embedded Systems Specialist Examination
Morning I (Common Knowledge)
IT Service Manager Examination 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 3 3
Database Specialist Examination
Network Specialis Examination
Systems Architect Examination
Field of Questions Common Career Skill Framework Field Major Category Middle Category
1 1 Basic Theory 2 3 Computer Systems 4 5 6 7 8 3 Technical Elements 9
Basic Theory Algorithms and Programming Computer Components System Components Software Hardware Human Interfaces Multimedia Databases 3 3 3 1 2 3 3 4 3 3 3 4 3 3 3 4 4 4 3 4 4 3 3 3 4 3 4 3 3 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 4 3 3 4 3 3 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 3 4 4
Technology
10 Networks 11 Security Development Techniques Project Management Service Management System Development Techniques Software Development 13 Management Techniques 12 14 Project Management 15 Service Management 16 System Auditing 17 System Strategy 18 System Planning 19 Management Strategy Strategy 8 Management Strategy Technology Strategy 20 Management 21 Business Industry Corporate & Legal Affairs 22 Corporate Activities 23 Legal Affairs
Management
3 4
Systems Strategy
(Note 1) means that it is within the scope of questions, and means that it is a priority field within the scope of questions. (Note 2) 1, 2, 3, and 4 indicate the Technology Level. 4 is the highest and the upper levels include the lower levels. (Note 3) To pursue consistency between the Information Technology Engineers Examination and each of ITSS, ETSS, and UISS human resource skill standards, a detailed discussion has been held to refine the Common Career/Skill Framework, and under the direction of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, necessary changes have been made to the major and middle categories as shown in the HRD-WG Report (Appendix 1).
Table 15
Field Major Category Middle Category 1 Basic theory 1 Basic theory Technology
Scope of Morning Questions
2 Computer system
Examples of Knowledge Items binary number, radix, numeric representation, arithmetic precision, set, Venn diagram, logical operation, proposition, etc. 2 Applied probability, statistics, numerical analysis, formula mathematics manipulation, graph theory, queueing theory, etc. 3 Theory about coding theory, predicate logic, automaton, formal information language, computational complexity, artificial intelligence, knowledge engineering, learning theory, compiler theory, programming language theory and semantics, etc. 4 Theory of transmission theory (transmission channel, communications modulation and demodulation technique, multiplexing, error detection and correction, signal synchronization technique) etc. 5 Theories of signal processing, feedback control, feed-forward measurement and control, response characteristics, control stability, control various controls, types of sensors and actuators and their operating characteristics, etc. 2 Algorithm and 1 Data structure stack and queue, list, array, tree structure, binary programming tree, etc. 2 Algorithm Understanding of sorting, merging, search, recursion, character string processing, flowchart, etc. 3 Programming programming by using existing programming languages (coding convention, program structure, data type, grammar notation, etc.) 4 Programming types and characteristics of programming languages languages (assembler language, C, C++, COBOL, Java, Perl, PHP, Python, Ruby, etc.) 5 Other languages types and characteristics of markup languages (HTML, XML, etc), SDL (Specification and Description Language), ADL (Architecture Description Language), etc. 3 Computer 1 Processor types of computers and processors, and their components configurations and operating principles, interrupts, performance and characteristics, structure and architecture, RISC and CISC, instructions and addressing, etc. 2 Memory types and characteristics of memory, memory system structure and storage hierarchy (cache, main memory, auxiliary storage), access method, RAM file, memory capacity and performance, types and characteristics of storage media, etc. 3 Bus Types and characteristics of bus, bus system structure, bus control method, bus access mode, bus capacity and performance, etc. 4 Input /output types and characteristics of input/output devices, interface input/output interface, device driver, synchronization with device, analog-digital conversion, etc. 5 Input /output input device, output device, display device, device auxiliary storage device and storage media, communication control unit, drive unit, imaging device, etc.
Minor Category 1 Discrete mathematics
Field Major Category Middle Category 4 System components
5 Software
6 Hardware
3 Technical element
7 Human interface
8 Multimedia
9 Database
Examples of Knowledge Items system processing mode, types of systems, system application area, client/server system, Web systems thin client system, fault tolerant system, NAS, SAN, P2P, High Performance Computing (HPC), clusters, etc. 2 System evaluation system performance index, system performance indexes characteristics and evaluation, significance and purpose of system reliability and economy, reliability calculation, reliability index, reliability characteristics and evaluation, cost efficiency evaluation, capacity planning, etc. 1 Operating system types and characteristics of OSs, functions of OS, multiprogramming, virtual storage, job management, process/task management, data management, input /output management, storage management, interrupt, etc. 2 Middleware role and functions of various middleware (API for OS, various libraries, componentware, and shells), selection and use of middleware, etc 3 File system types and characteristics of file systems, access method, search method, directory management, backup, file organization, etc. 4 Development design tool, building tools, test tool, language tools processing tools (compiler, interpreter, linker, loader), CASE, emulator, simulator, in-circuit emulator (ICE), tools chain, integrated development environment, etc. 5 Open source types and characteristics of OSS, Unix-family software OSs, open source community, LAMP/LAPP, considerations in the use and utilization of OSS (safety, defect, etc), trends, etc. 1 Hardware electric and electronic circuit, machine and control, logical design, components/elements and implementation, semiconductor device, system LSI, SoC (System On a Chip), power consumption, etc. 1 Human interface information architecture, GUI, voice recognition, technology image recognition, moving image recognition, feature extraction, learning function, interactive system, usability, etc. 2 Interface design form design, screen design, code design, Web design, human centered design, universal design, etc. 1 Multimedia Authoring environment, sound processing, still technology image processing, moving image processing, media integration, compression, decompression, MPEG, etc. 2 Application of AR (Augmented Reality), VR (Virtual Reality), multimedia CG (Computer Graphics), media application, etc. 1 Database system types and characteristics of databases, database model, DBMS, etc. 2 Database design data analysis, logical design of database, data normalization, performance design of database, physical design of database, etc.
Minor Category 1 System configuration
Field Major Category Middle Category
10 Networks
11 Security
4 Development 12 System technology development technology
Examples of Knowledge Items database manipulation, languages used to manipulate databases (SQL, etc.), relational algebra, etc. 4 Transaction exclusive control, recovery processing, processing transaction management, database performance enhancement, data control, etc. 5 Database data warehouse, data mining, distributed database, application repository, metadata, etc. 1 Network types and characteristics of networks, architecture (WAN/LAN, wired/wireless, etc.) internet technology, calculation associated with line, packet exchange network, etc. 2 Data transmission transmission method and line, internetworking and control device, digital service unit, OSI model, media access control (MAC), data link control, routing control, flow control, etc. 3 Communication protocols and interfaces, TCP/IP, HDLC, protocols CORBA, HTTP, DNS, SOAP, IPv6, etc. 4 Network network operations management (SNMP), fault management control, performance management, traffic monitoring, etc. 5 Network Internet, intranet, extranet, mobile application communication, network OS, communication service, etc. 1 Information cryptography (public key, private key, DES, RSA, security etc.), authentication technology (digital signature, message authentication, time authentication, etc.), user verification (callback, ID, password, etc.), biometric authentication technology, public key infrastructure (PKI), government public key infrastructure (GPKI, Bridge Certification Authority, and so on), etc. 2 Information overview of information assets and risks, types of security risks, risk analysis and evaluation, risk management countermeasures, information security policy, ISMS, development of security regulations for corporate activities, etc. 3 Security evaluation method, assurance level, ISO/IEC technology 15408, etc. evaluation 4 Information human security measures, technical security security measures measures (measures against cracking, measures against computer viruses, etc), physical security measures, etc. 5 Security secure OS, application security, secure implementation programming, etc. technology 1 System system requirements definition (functions; requirements performance; requirements from tasks, definition organizations, and users; design conditions; qualification requirements; etc), evaluation of system requirements, etc.
Minor Category 3 Data manipulation
13 Software development management techniques
Examples of Knowledge Items establishing the architecture at the top level of the system (functional decomposition of hardware, software, and manual work; hardware architecture; software architecture; application architecture; database architecture; etc.), evaluation of systems architecture, etc. 3 Software establishment of software requirements (function, requirements performance, interface, etc), evaluation of definition software requirements, hearing, use case, prototype, DFD, E-R diagram, UML, etc. 4 Software software structure and component design, architecture interface design, software unit test design, design and software integration test design, software quality, software detailed review, walk-through, software design evaluation, design process-oriented design, data-oriented design, structured design, object-oriented design, module design, design pattern, etc. 5 Software coding software coding, coding conventions, code and testing review, debugging, test method, test preparation (test environment, test data, etc.), test execution, test result evaluation, etc. 6 Software test planning, test preparation (test environment, integration and test data, etc.), test execution, test result software evaluation, etc. qualification tests 7 System test planning, test preparation (test environment, integration and test data, etc.), test execution, test result system evaluation, tuning, etc. qualification tests 8 Software creation of software installation plan, execution of installation software installation, etc. 9 Software acceptance review and acceptance test, delivery acceptance and acceptance of software products, user manual, education and training, etc. 10 Software Styles of software maintenance, significance of maintenance software maintenance, etc. 1 Development software development method, process maturity process and level, software life cycle process (SLCP), reuse of methods software, structured method, formal method, reverse engineering, mashup, etc. 2 Intellectual copyright management, patent management, property inventory management, etc. application management 3 Development development environment operation status environment management, development environment management construction, design data management, tool management, license management, etc. 4 Configuration establishment of configuration identification management and system, change control, configuration status change control recording, assurance of the integrity of items, release management and shipment, etc.
Minor Category 2 Systems architecture design
Management
Field Major Category Middle Category 5 Project 14 Project management management
Minor Category 1 Project integration management
2 Project scope management 3 Project time management 4 Project cost management 5 Project quality management 6 Project human resources management 7 Project communications management 8 Project risk management
Examples of Knowledge Items project charter preparation, preparation of a preliminary project scope description document, preparation of a project management plan, direct and management of project implementation, controlling of project activities, integrated change control, project termination scope planning, scope definition, WBS creation, scope verification, scope control activity definition, activity sequencing, activity resource estimating, activity duration estimating, schedule development, schedule control cost estimation, cost budgeting, cost control
6 Service management
15 Service management
quality planning, quality assurance, quality management human resources planning, project team organization, project team development, project team management communications planning, information distribution, performance reporting, stakeholder management risk management planning, risk identification, qualitative risk analysis, quantitative risk analysis, risk response planning, risk monitoring and control Project plan purchasing and acquisition, plan contract, procurement request seller responses, select sellers, contract management administration, contract closure Service significance and purpose of service management, management ITIL, role of system operations manager, SLA (Service Level Agreement), evaluation and verification of operations assessment indicators, handing over of operations, etc. Operations design schedule design, system installation, system and tools migration, operations support tools, monitoring tools, diagnostic tools, etc. Service support service desk (helpdesk), incident management (fault control), problem management, configuration management, change management, release management, risk management, computer operations and management etc. Service delivery system operation, SLM (Service Level Management), capacity management, availability management, IT service continuity management, user management, system resource management, IT service finance management, information asset management ,etc. Service gap analysis, risk assessment, requirements management establishment, etc. foundation Facility facility management including equipment such as management power supply and air conditioning, maintenance and protection of facilities, etc.
Field Major Category Middle Category 16 System audit
Minor Category 1 System audit
Strategy
7 System strategy
17 System strategy
18 System planning
Examples of Knowledge Items significance and purpose of system audits, targeted business operations of system audits, system auditability, system audit planning, system audit implementation (preliminary audit, main audit, evaluation, conclusions), system audit reporting, system audit evaluation ,system audit standards, system audit techniques, audit evidence, audit work paper, etc. 2 Internal control Internal control, IT governance, evaluation and improvement of compliance, etc. 1 Information significance and purpose of information system system strategy strategy, total optimization policy, total optimization planning, computerization promotion system, computerization investment planning, business model, business operations model, information systems model, EA (Enterprise Architecture) (business architecture, data architecture, application architecture, technology architecture), program management, system owner , data owner, process framework, quality control (quality control framework), information systems strategy evaluation information systems strategy implementation management etc. 2 Business process BPR, analysis of business operations, business improvement, design of business operations, BPM (Business Process Management), BPO, SFA, etc. 3 Solution business business system proposal, business package, problem solving support, ASP, SOA, SaaS, etc. 4 System utilization information literacy, data utilization, promotion and popularization and awareness raising, evaluation evaluation and verification of information system utilization, information system disposal etc. 1 Computerization computerization initiative, basic computerization planning policy, total development schedule, development project framework, staff training planning, development return on development investment, system life cycle, information system installation risk analysis, etc. 2 Requirements requirements analysis, user needs study, current definition state analysis, operational requirements definition, functional requirements definition, non-functional requirements definition, verification of stakeholder requirements, verification of the consistency with the system strategy , etc. 3 Procurement procurement targets, procurement requirements, planning and procurement conditions, RFP (Request For implementation Proposal), proposal evaluation criteria, estimates, proposals, vendor selection, procurement risk analysis, internal & external manufacturing criteria, software asset management, software supply chain management, etc.
Field Major Category Middle Category 8 Business 19 Business strategy strategy management
20 Technological strategy management
21 Business industry
9 Corporate and legal affairs
22 Corporate activities
Minor Category Examples of Knowledge Items 1 Business strategy competition strategy, differentiation strategy, core techniques competence, M&A, alliance, group management, corporate philosophy, SWOT analysis, PPM (Product Portfolio Management), value chain analysis, growth matrix, outsourcing, etc. 2 Marketing marketing theory, marketing techniques, marketing analysis, LTV (Life Time Value), etc. 3 Business strategy business strategy planning, business environment and analysis, needs/wants analysis, competitive goal/evaluation analysis, strategic targets, CSF (Critical Success Factor), KPI (Key Performance Indicator), KGI (Key Goal Indicator), balance score card, etc. 4 Business CRM, SCM, ERP, decision support, knowledge management management, etc. system 1 Planning of product trend, technology trend, core technology, technology technology research, technology acquisition, development technology licensing, technological tie-up, MOT strategy (Management Of Technology), industryacademia-government collaboration, standardization strategy, etc. 2 Technology technical development investment planning, development plan technology development site planning, human resources planning, technology roadmap, product application roadmap, patent acquisition roadmap, etc. 1 Business system distribution information system, logistics information system, public information system, medical information system, financial information system, e-Government, POS system, XBRL, etc. 2 Engineering significance and purpose of engineering system, system production management system, MRP, PDM, CAE, etc. 3 e-business EC (electronic commerce such as BtoB and BtoC), electronic payment system, EDI, IC card and RFID application system, etc. 4 Consumer audio and video equipment, household electrical appliances appliances, personal information appliances, educational and entertainment equipment, computer peripherals/OA equipment, industrial terminal equipment, consumer communications terminals, etc. 5 Industrial devices communication devices, transport/construction equipment, industrial equipment/ FA equipment/ industrial robots, facility equipment, medical devices, analytical/measurement instruments, etc. 1 Management and business management, PDCA, management organization organization (divisional system, company system, theory CIO, CEO, etc), corporate governance, CSR, IR, human resources (OJT, management by objectives, case studies, discretionary labor system, etc), behavioral science (leadership, communication, technical writing, presentation, negotiation, motivation), TQM, risk management, BCP, computer literacy, etc.
Examples of Knowledge Items LP (Linear Programming), inventory problem, PERT/CPM, game theory, analysis techniques (work analysis, PTS, work sampling, etc), inspection techniques (OC curve, sampling, simulation, etc), quality control techniques (seven QC tools, new seven QC tools, and so on), etc. 3 Accounting and financial accounting, management accounting, financial affairs accounting standards, financial statements, consolidation accounting, depreciation, breakeven point, financial indicators, initial cost, lease and rental, cash planning and cash management, asset management, etc. 23 Legal affairs 1 Intellectual Copyright Act, Industrial Property Law, Unfair property rights Competition Prevention Act, license agreements , OSS license (GPL and BSD licenses), etc. 2 Laws on security Act on the Prohibition of Unauthorized Computer Access, Act on the Limitation of Liability for Damages of Specified Telecommunications Service Providers and the Right to Demand Disclosure of Identification Information of the Senders, etc. 3 Laws on labor Labor Standards Act, laws on labor, outsourcing and transaction contract, software agreement, NDA (NonDisclosure Agreement), Act against Delay in Payment of Subcontract Proceeds, Etc. to Subcontractors, Act for Securing the Proper Operation of Worker Dispatching Undertakings and Improved Working Conditions for Dispatched Workers, civil law, commercial law, etc. 4 Other laws, compliance, information disclosure, guidelines, and Telecommunication Business Law, network engineer ethics related laws and regulations, Companies Act, Financial Instruments and Exchange Law, tax laws, export-related laws and regulations, Act on the Protection of Personal Information, System Management Standards, Standards for Measures against Unauthorized Access to Computers, Standards for Measures against Computer Viruses, Software Management Guidelines, information ethics, engineer ethics, professionalism, etc. 5 Standardization roles of JIS, ISO, IEEE, and other associated bodies, standardization organizations, international certification framework (accreditation/certification/inspection bodies), various codes, JIS Q 15001, ISO 9000, ISO 14000, etc. Note: The minor categories and knowledge items in the Project Management middle category are quoted from Project Management Body of Knowledge Guide (PMBOK Guide) Version 3 (Project Management Institute [PMI]).
Minor Category 2 OR/IE
(2) Afternoon Examinations The Afternoon Examinations test skills based on the following scope of questions for each examination category (refer to Table 5 on for the examination time, type, and number of questions and answers). a) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination (Multiple-Choice)
1 a) Computer Systems Hardware Expression in numbers, characters, graphics, and sound, processing apparatus, storage devices and media, input/output devices, instruction execution methods, addressing methods, system configuration, etc. b) c) Software OSs, middleware, application software, descriptive language, modeling, etc. Databases Database types and characteristics, data models, normalization, DBMS, database languages (SQL), etc. d) Networks Network configuration, internet and intranet, protocols, data transmission, transmission control, etc. 2 Information Security Information security policy, database security, network security, application security, physical security, access control, encryption and authorization, anti-virus measures, etc. 3 Data Structure and Algorithms Arrays, list structure, tree structure, graphs, sorting, search, numeric calculation, character string processing, graphics processing, file processing, computational complexity, error, etc. 4 Software Design Software requirements analysis, software formula design, software detailed design, structured design, module design, object-oriented design, web application design, test planning, human interfaces, etc. 5 6 Software Development Programming (C, COBOL, Java, assembly, spreadsheets), testing, debugging, etc. Management a) Project Management Estimation methods, quality control, process control, cost control, risk control, etc. b) IT Service Management Service support (service desk, problem management, change control), service delivery (service level management, capacity management, system performance, system reliability), system operational management, etc. 7 Strategy a) System Strategy Information system strategy, marketing, business models, etc. b) Management/Related Laws and Regulations Business management, task processes, organizational operation, corporate accounting,
related laws and regulations, standardization, etc.
b) Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination (Short Answer)

1 Business Strategy Marketing, business analysis, business and corporate strategy, corporate finance, business value evaluation, accounting, leadership theory, etc. 2 Information Strategy Business models, product strategy, organizational operation, outsourcing policy, information industry trends, information technology trends, international standardization trends, etc. 3 4 Strategy Planning and Consulting Techniques Logical thinking, presentation techniques, balance score card and SWOT analysis, etc. System Architecture Formula design and functional decomposition, request for proposals (RFP), requirements analysis, reliability and performance, web technology, (including web services and SOAs), knowledge of tasks in major industries, application of package software and open source programs, other trends in new technologies, etc. 5 IT Service Management Service support (service desk, incident control, problem management, configuration management, change control, release management), service delivery (service level management, availability management, capacity management, IT service financial management, IT service continuity management), system operational management, etc. 6 Project Management Project planning and management (scope, process, quality, budget, personnel, procurement, risks, communication), etc. 7 Networks Network architecture, protocols, Internet, intranet and VPN, communication traffic, wired and wireless communication, etc. 8 Databases Data models, normalization, DBMS, database languages (SQL), database system operation and maintenance, etc. 9 Embedded Systems Development Realtime OS and MPU architecture, energy saving, high reliability design and memory management, sensors and actuators, embedded system design, individual applications (mobile phone, car, household appliances, etc.) etc. 10 Information Systems Development External design, internal design, test planning and testing, standardization and componentialization, development environment, object-oriented analysis (UML), software lifecycle process (SLCP), individual applications (ERP, SCM, CRM, and so on), etc. 11 Programming Algorithms, data structure, program creation technology (programming languages, markup languages), web programming, etc. 12 Information Security Information security policy, risk analysis, database security, network security, application
security, physical security, access control, encryption and authorization, anti-virus measures, etc. 13 System Audit IT governance, auditing of information system and embedded system planning, development, operation, and maintenance, information security auditing, privacy protection auditing, collaboration and adjustment with other audits (accounts audits, task audits), system audit planning, implementation, and reporting, system audit related laws and regulations, etc.
c) Information Technology Strategist Examination (Afternoon I: Short Answer, Afternoon II: Essay)
1 Formulation or support of business strategy utilizing information technology, reflecting the business characteristics of each industry Formulation of business strategy utilizing information technology based on a management strategy, business model development proposals using information technology, business reform planning, proposals to increase the added value of new products and services, selection of system solutions, formulation of outsourcing strategy, etc. 2 Formulation of information system strategy and overall systemization plans, reflecting the business characteristics of each industry Definition of task models, definition of overall information systems, analysis and prioritization of information system development issues, formulation of information system infrastructure configuration policy and standard, formulation of system solution application policy (ERP packages, etc), formulation of mid to long-term information systemization plans, formulation of information system section operation policy, formulation of overall IT control preparation policy, formulation and implementation of business continuity plan, analysis of system risks, formulation of disaster response plan, formulation of information systemization annual plans, etc. 3 Formulation of individual systemization concepts and plans, reflecting the business characteristics of each industry Formulation of systemization concepts, definition of system problems of tasks, task system analysis, task model creation, task process design, organization of systemized functions and formulation of system methods, formulation of system selection policy (application of system solutions, etc), creation of overall development schedule, formulation of project execution structure, preparation of request for proposals (RFP), proposal evaluation and selection of suppliers, estimation of costs and system return on investment, etc. 4 Execution control and evaluation of information system strategy considering the assumptions and restrictions of each business Progress management of overall reform program for products, services, work, organization, and information systems; standardization promotion of information system infrastructure standard and system-related quality management standard; risk control and handling of reform execution; promoting the application of system solutions; promotion of system utilization; analysis, evaluation, and improvement of reform program effects, costs, and risks; performance evaluation of business strategy, information system strategy, overall
systemization plan, and individual systemization plans; etc. 5 Planning, formulation and promotion of development plans for embedded systems Technical trends analysis of communications, information, architecture, user interface, storage, semiconductors, measurement, control, and platforms; organization of considerations for intellectual property, regulations, and laws; risk analysis; formulation of procurement policy; evaluation of consistency with management strategy; verification and adjustment of requirements; etc.
d) Systems Architect Examination (Afternoon I: Short Answer, Afternoon II: Essay)

[Information Systems] 1 2 Contracts and Agreements Request for Proposals (RFP) and proposals preparations, project planning support, etc. Planning Verification of target task content, analysis of target task systems, investigation of applicable information technology, creation of task models, organization of systemized functions and formulation of system methods, clarification of basic policy for service levels and quality, consideration of feasibility, formulation of system selection policy, estimation of cost and system return on investment, etc. 3 Requirements Definition Identification of needs and definition of constraints, definition of task requirements, materialization of requirements for the new organization and task environment, definition of functional requirements, definition of non-functional requirements, definition of schedulerelated requirements, etc. 4 Development System requirements definition, system formula design, software requirements definition, software formula design, software detailed design, system integration, system qualification verification testing, software installation, software acceptance support, etc. 5 Operation and Maintenance Operational testing, task and systems migration, system operation evaluation, task operation evaluation, evaluation of return on investment and task effects, understanding and correction analysis of maintenance-related problems, etc. 6 Related Knowledge Configuration management, quality assurance, auditing, related legislation, etc. [Embedded Systems] 1 Functional Requirements Analysis, Determination of Functional Specifications, etc. Functional requirements analysis for development systems, quality requirements analysis, development process design, cost design, performance design, compilation of functional specifications, related technology, etc. 2 Determination of Hardware and Software Requirements Specifications that Satisfy Functional Specifications Hardware and software trade-off, functional decomposition analysis, functional decomposition into system components, determination of interface specifications between
devices, creation of software and hardware requirements specification documents, system architecture design, reliability design, realtime operating systems, etc. 3 Use of Generic Modules Module design, reuse, configuration management, etc.
e) Project Manager Examination (Afternoon I: Short Answer, Afternoon II: Essay)

1 Establishment of Project Plans Project scope and prerequisites, and formulation of operation policy, planning of personnel, manpower, and resources, etc., budget formulation and execution planning, process planning, quality planning, procurement planning, risk analysis and risk response planning, request for proposals (RFP), project decision making procedures, related legislation and standards, etc. 2 Project Management and Operation Project management technique and applicable technologies, requirements and estimates, management of organization and personnel, budget management, process management, quality management, procurement management, risk control, confidentiality and contract management, change control, communications management, leadership, staff training and other human aspects, project internal control, etc. 3 Project Evaluation Project evaluation techniques and applicable technologies, analysis and evaluation of acquired data, compilation of project completion reports, evaluation and analysis of project results, evaluation of acceptance results, evaluation of contract compliance status, project completion records, etc.
f)
Network Specialist Examination (Afternoon I: Short Answer, Afternoon II: Short Answer)
1 Network System Planning, Requirements Definition and Development Network system requirements analysis, logical design, physical design, reliability design, performance design, security design, address design, operation design, implementation, testing, transition, evaluation (performance, reliability, quality, economy, etc), improvement proposals, etc. 2 3 Network System Operation and Maintenance Network system operation and maintenance, security management and structure, etc. Network Technology and Related Legislation and Standards Network system configuration technology, technology elements, queuing theory, traffic technology, security technology, network related laws and ethics, network related domestic and international standards, etc. 4 Networks Service Utilization Use techniques and evaluation techniques of different kinds of network services that have been brought or are being brought to the market, etc.
g) Database Specialist Examination (Afternoon I: Short Answer, Afternoon II: Short Answer)
1 Database System Planning, Requirements Definition, and Development Database system planning, requirements definition, creation of concept data models, code
design, physical database design and construction, data operation design, performance estimation, etc. 2 Database System Operation and Maintenance Database operation and maintenance, management structure (database administrator, data administrator), 3 performance management, capacity management, reorganization, reconfiguration, backing up, recovery, data transition, security management, etc. Database Technology Repositories, relationship models, relational algebra, normalization, database management systems, SQL, etc.
h) Embedded Systems Specialist Examination (Afternoon I: Short Answer, Afternoon II: Short Answer)
1 Embedded Systems Design and Construction Functional requirements analysis of development systems, quality requirements analysis, hardware-software trade-off that satisfies functional requirements, creation of software and hardware specification documents, system architecture design, realtime design, functional safety design, high reliability design, security design, overall performance projection, electricity saving design, consideration of testing methods, development environment design, etc. 2 Embedded Systems Software Design Application of realtime OS, realtime kernel design, device driver design, task design, shared resources design, investigation of software requirements specifications for software implementation and the process for carrying it out, software formula design, software detail design, software code creation and testing, software integration testing, system verification testing, configuration management, change control, etc. 3 Embedded Systems Hardware Design Hardware requirements specifications, MPU selection, investigation of system LSI, use of high level hardware design language, hardware architecture design, memory level design, consideration of peripheral devices, hardware component performance evaluation, communication interface design, high reliability design, failure analysis, consideration of human interfaces, system verification testing, development and testing environment construction, consideration of problems relating to electricity and machinery, etc.
i)
Information Security Specialist Examination (Afternoon I: Short Answer, Afternoon II: Short Answer)
1 Information Security System Planning, Requirements Definition, Development, Operation, and Maintenance Information system planning, requirements definition, and development; physical security measures; application security measures including Web applications; secure programming; database security measures; network security measures; system security measures; etc. 2 Information Security Operation Information security policy, risk analysis, task continuity planning, information security operation and management, vulnerability analysis, misuse analysis, unauthorized access
countermeasures, incident response, user security management, fault recovery planning, information security education, system auditing (security aspects), etc. 3 Information Security Technology Access management techniques, anti-virus technology, encryption technology, authorization technology, security application systems (signatures, intrusion detection systems, firewalls, secure communication technology [VPN, etc], key management technology, PKI, etc. Peripheral devices are also included as target), methods of attack, log administration techniques for audit trails, etc. 4 Development Management Development lifecycle management, system document configuration management, distribution and operation, human management methods (structure to prevent violations within the team), information security management for the development environment, etc. 5 Information Security Related Legal Requirements Information security related legislation, domestic and international standards, guidelines, copyright law, privacy protection, information ethics, etc.
j)
Information Technology Service Manager Examination (Afternoon I: Short Answer, Afternoon II: Essay)
1 Service Support and Service Delivery Service desk for regular system operation management, incident control, problem management, configuration management, change control, service level management concerning the planning and improvement of release management and systems operation management, availability management, capacity management, IT service financial management, IT service continuity management, etc. 2 System Operation Management Application system acceptance concerning application deployment, operation and optimization; library management; operation management; failure operation methods; system monitoring; operation status management; fault management; system tuning and performance management; management and maintenance of batch processing schedules; backing up and restoring; alternate processing and recovery at the time of service failure or disaster; storage management; etc. 3 Continual Improvement of IT Services and IT Service Management Reporting Establishment of IT service management deployment plans, IT service management implementation, formation and implementation of IT service continuity plan, identification and control of risks to IT services, measurement and analysis of IT service management such as customer satisfaction and resource availability, formulation and management of improvement plans, service reports, etc. 4 Information Security Operation and Management Information security policy, risk evaluation, access control, physical security, privacy protection, firewalls, anti-virus measures, data security, high availability systems, information asset management, information security related standards and laws, etc. 5 Customer Service Basic hardware and software technology related to customer services, system maintenance
management, data center facility management, equipment management, etc.
k) Systems Auditor Examination (Afternoon I: Short Answer, Afternoon II: Essay)

1 Information Systems, Embedded Systems and Communication Networks Management in general, information strategy, information systems, embedded systems, communication networks, file systems and databases, software lifecycle models, project management, IT service management, risk management, quality management, information security technology, information security policy, business continuity management, etc. 2 General System Audit IT governance, IT control, auditing of information system and embedded system planning, development, operation, and maintenance, business continuity management audit, system development project audit, information security audit, privacy protection audit, collaboration and adjustment with other audits (accounts audits, task audits), etc. 3 Planning, Implementation and Reporting of System Audits Audit planning, risk approach, audit implementation, computer supported auditing techniques, digital forensics, audit reporting, follow up implementation, system audit tasks and management (including quality management of audit tasks), etc. 4 System Audit Related Legislation Information security related laws and regulations, privacy protection laws, intellectual property laws, labor related legislation, statutory audit legislation, standards, guidelines and measures related to system auditing and information security auditing, standards, guidelines and measures for internal auditing and internal control, etc.
Annex 1
Transition of the Information Technology Engineers Examination System
Annex 2
Comparison of Scope of Current and New Examinations
a) Information Technology Passport Examination (Level 1)

Field
Major Category
Middle Category 1 Corporate Activities
AD (Morning)
IT Passport Examination
1
S t r a t e g y
Corporate & Legal Affairs
2 Legal Affairs Business Strategy Management Technical Strategy 4 Management Business Strategy 5 Management 3 6 System Strategy 7 System Planning System Development Techniques Software Development 9 Management Techniques 8
Business Strategy
System Strategy
M a n a g e m e n t
Development Techniques
Project 10 Project Management Management Service Management 11 Service Management
12 System Audit 13 Basic Theory
Basic Theory 14 Algorithms & Programming 15 Computer Components
T e c h n o l o g y
Computer Systems
16 System Components 17 Software 18 Hardware 19 Human Interfaces 20 Multimedia
Technical Elements
21 Databases 22 Networks 23 Security
80 compulsory 100 compulsory questions questions AD: Systems Administrator Examination
------------------------(Note 1) For the Morning Examination, indicates that it is within the scope of questions, and indicates that it is a priority field within the scope of questions. () indicates that it is within the scope of questions of the Morning I Examination (common knowledge). (Note 2) Red shading indicates fields with additions, expansions or enhancements. (Note 3) A solid line arrow in the Afternoon Examinations indicates a corresponding field, and a dashed line arrow indicates correspondence to part of a field.
b) Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination (Level 2)

Morning Examination
Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination Hardware Software Databases Networks Information Technology (Security, System Performance, Development Processes, etc) Algorithms Program Design Program Development (Programming Languages)
Afternoon Examinations
Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination
Field
Major Category
FE
FE
->
1 Basic Theory Tech nology 2 Computer Systems Technical 3 Elements Development 4 Techniques 5 Project Management
Hardware Software Databases Networks Technology Security
Manage ment
Service Management System 7 Strategy Management Strategy Corporate & Legal Affairs
80 compulsory questions
Algorithms Software Design Program Development (Programming Languages) Project Management IT Service Management System Strategy Management and Related Legislation Added Management Added Added Strategy Added Change: answer 1 question from 2
Strategy 8 9
FE: Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination (Current)
Select 7 questions from 13. For Programming Languages selection of questions is compulsory. For all others questions are compulsory.
Select 7 questions from 13. For Algorithms questions are compulsory. For Programming Languages a selection of questions is compulsory (spreadsheets added). For all others a selection of questions is compulsory.
c) Applied Information Technology Engineers Examination (Level 3)

Morning Examination
Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination 80 compulsory questions Added Added Added
Afternoon Examinations
Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination
Field
Major Category
SW
SW
->
1 Basic Theory Tech nology 2 3 4 Manage ment 5 6 7 Strategy 8 9 Computer Systems Technical Elements Development Techniques Project Management Service Management System Strategy Management Strategy Corporate & Legal Affairs
X X X 80 compulsory questions
System Configuration Technology Networks Databases Security Algorithms Software Engineering System Development System Evaluation
System Architecture Networks Databases Security Programming (Algorithms) Embedded Systems Development Information Systems Development IT Service Management Project Management System Audit Management Strategy, IT Strategy Planning, Consulting Methods Added Technology
Added Management Added Added Strategy Added
SW: Software Design and Development Engineer Examination
Afternoon I: 6 compulsory questions, Morning II: 1 compulsory question. Questions only from Technology
Select 6 questions from 12. All multiple choice questions.
-----------------------------------(Note 1) For the Morning Examination, indicates that it is within the scope of questions, and indicates that it is a priority field within the scope of questions. () indicates that it is within the scope of questions of the Morning I Examination (common knowledge). (Note 2) Red shading indicates fields with additions, expansions or enhancements. (Note 3) A solid line arrow in the Afternoon Examinations indicates a corresponding field, and a dashed line arrow indicates correspondence to part of a field.
d) Information Technology Strategist Examination (Level 4)

Morning Examination
Field Major Category
Afternoon Examinations AN SD
AN
IT strategy formulation, and IT systems construction planning Making and advancing overall IT system plan Making and advancing individual system development plans
->
1 Basic Theory Computer Systems Technical Elements Development Techniques Project Management Service Management System Strategy
()
Business Strategy Formulation or Support IT System Strategy and Overall Systemization Plan Formulation Individual Systemization Concept and Plan Formulation Execution Management and Evaluation of Information System Strategies [Embedded Systems] Product Planning, Development Plan Formulation and Advancement
Added
Corresponds to Business Strategist
2 Tech nology 3
()
()
()
Extended
Integrated
() Preparation of task system improvement plans IT system construction management Information system use management
Corresponds to Program Manager Corresponds to Product Manager
Manage ment
Added
6 7
()
Management Strategy 8 Strategy 9 Corporate & Legal Affairs
SD
Afternoon I: select 3 from 4 Afternoon II: select 1 from 3
->
IT Strategist Examination Afternoon I: select 2 from 4 Afternoon II: select 1 from 3
55 compulsory 55 compulsory questions questions*
*Total of Morning I (common knowledge: 30 compulsory questions) and Morning II (specialist knowledge: 25 compulsory questions). Same for (e) - (l) below. AN: Systems Analyst Examination SD: Senior Systems Administrator Examination
e) Systems Architect Examination (Level 4)

Morning Examination
Afternoon Examinations AE
X Systems Architect Examination ()
AE
System Analysis/Requirements Definition System Design/Development External Design System Design/Development Internal Design System Design/Development System Formula Design Testing
->
Systems Architect Examination Contracts/Agreements Overall Optimization Planning/Requirements Definition Extended Design for System Structure Added Development Operation/Maintenance [Embedded Systems] Functional Requirements Analysis, Functional Requirements Determination [Embedded Systems] Functional Specifications Determination [Embedded System] Versatile Module Use
Tech nology
3 4
4 Manage ment 5 6
()
Added
()
Development Management/Environment
Added Added
Embedded Systems
() () 55 compulsory questions Afternoon I: select 3 from 4 Afternoon II: select 1 from 3
AE: Application Systems Engineer Examination
f) Project Manager Examination (Level 4)

Morning Examination
Afternoon Examinations PM
X 55 compulsory questions Project Manager Examination () () () () 55 compulsory questions Project Planning Project Management/Operation Project Evaluation Afternoon I: select 3 from 4 Afternoon II: select 1 from 3
PM
->
1 Basic Theory 2 3 Computer Systems Technical Elements
Project Planning Project Management/Operation Project Evaluation Afternoon I: select 2 from 4 Afternoon II: select 1 from 3 Embedded Systems Added
Tech nology
Development 4 Techniques Manage ment 5 Project Management
Service 6 Management 7 System Strategy
Strategy 8 Management Strategy 9 Corporate & Legal Affairs
PM: Project Manager Examination (Current)
g) Network Specialist Examination (Level 4)

Morning Examination
Afternoon Examinations NW
Network Specialist Examination ()
NW
Network System Design/Construction Network System Operation/Maintenance Network Technology, Related Legislation/Standardization Network Service Utilization Afternoon I: select 3 from 4 Afternoon II: select 1 from 2
->
Network Specialist Examination Network System Planning/Requirements Definition/ Development Network System Operation/Maintenance Network Technology, Related Legislation/Standardization Network Service Utilization Afternoon I: 2 from 3 Afternoon II: 1 from 2
Tech nology
2 3 4
() () 55 compulsory questions
Manage ment
6 7
NW: Network Systems Engineer Examination
h) Database Specialist Examination (Level 4)

Morning Examination
Afternoon Examinations DB
Database Specialist Examination ()
DB
Database System Design/Construction Database System Operation/Maintenance Database Technology Afternoon I: select 3 from 4 Afternoon II: select 1 from 2
->
Database Specialist Examination Database System Planning, Requirements Definition/Development Database System Operation/Maintenance Database Technology Afternoon I: 2 from 3 Afternoon II: 1 from 2
1 Basic Theory 2 3 4 5 6 7 Computer Systems Technical Elements Development Techniques Project Management Service Management System Strategy
Tech nology
() () () () () 55 compulsory questions
Manage ment
DB: Database Systems Engineer Examination
i) Embedded Systems Specialist Examination

Morning Examination
Afternoon Examinations ES
Embedded Systems Specialist Examination () () () () () () 55 compulsory questions
ES
Embedded Systems Design/Construction Embedded Systems Software Design Embedded Systems Hardware Design Afternoon I: select 3 from 4 Afternoon II: select 1 from 2
->
Embedded Systems Specialist Examination Embedded Systems Design/ Construction Embedded Systems Software Design Embedded Systems Hardware Design Afternoon I: 2 from 3 Afternoon II: 1 from 2
1 Basic Theory 2 3 4 5 Computer Systems Technical Elements Development Techniques Project Management
X X X X 55 compulsory questions
Tech nology
Manage ment
Service 6 Management 7 System Strategy Management Strategy Corporate & Legal Affairs
Strategy 8 9
ES: Embedded Systems Development Engineer Examination
----------------------------------(Note 1) For the Morning Examination, indicates that it is within the scope of questions, and indicates that it is a priority field within the scope of questions. () indicates that it is within the scope of questions of the Morning I Examination (common knowledge). (Note 2) Red shading indicates fields with additions, expansions or enhancements. (Note 3) A solid line arrow in the Afternoon Examinations indicates a corresponding field, and a dashed line arrow indicates correspondence to part of a field.
j) Information Security Specialist Examination (Level 4)

Morning Examination
Afternoon Examinations SV SU
SV
->
1 Basic Theory Computer Systems Technical Elements Development Techniques
()
Information Security Systems Planning/Design/Construction Information Security Operation/Management Information Security Technology/Related Legislation Development Management
Information Security Systems Planning/Development/Operation /Maintenance Information Security Operation Information Security Technology Development Management Information Security Related Legal Requirements
Tech nology
2 3 4
X X X
() ()
Project 5 Management Manage ment Service 6 Management 7 Strategy 8 9 System Strategy Management Strategy Corporate & Legal Affairs
Integrated
() () () Information Security Systems Planning/Design/Construction Information Security Operation/Management Information Security Technology/ Related Legislation
55 compulsory 55 compulsory questions questions
SU
->
Information Security Specialist Examination Afternoon I: select 2 from 4 Afternoon II: select 1 from 2
SV: Information Security Engineer Examination SU: Information Systems Security Administrator Examination
k) Information Technology Service Manager Examination (Level 4)

Morning Examination
Afternoon Examinations SM
SM
IT System Infrastructure Planning/Construction - Resource Management - Security Management - Performance Management IT System Infrastructure Operation - Operation Management - System Evaluation - New System Acceptance/Transition System Management Technology
->
1 Basic Theory
()
Service Support & Service Delivery
Tech nology
Computer Systems
System Operation Management
Reorganized question fields in line with JIS Q 20000 & ITIL.
3 4 Manage ment 5 6 7 Strategy 8 9
Technical Elements Development Techniques Project Management Service Management System Strategy Management Strategy Corporate & Legal Affairs
() () () 55 compulsory questions
Continuous Improvement of IT Service, Reporting of IT Service Management Information Security Operation/Management Customer Service
SM: Systems Management Engineer Examination
l) Systems Auditor Examination (Level 4)

Morning Examination
Afternoon Examinations AU
Systems Auditor Examination () () () () 55 compulsory questions
AU
IT Systems/Communication Networks/General System Audit System Audit Planning System Audit Implementation System Audit Reporting System Audit Related Legislation Afternoon I: select 3 from 4 Afternoon II: select 1 from 3
->
Systems Auditor Examination IT Systems/Embedded Systems/Communication Networks General System Audit System Audit Planning/ Implementation/Reporting System Audit Related Legislation Collection of Items for Audit Procedures & Steps Added Embedded Systems Separated System Enhanced Related Technology, Enhanced Technical Aspects
1 Basic Theory 2 3 4 Computer Systems Technical Elements Development Techniques
Tech nology
Project 5 Management Manage ment Service 6 Management System Strategy Management Strategy 8 Strategy Corporate & 9 Legal Affairs 7
AU: Systems Auditor Examination (Current Examination)
Annex 3 Breakdown of Number of Questions per Field in the Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination and Applied Information Technology Engineer Afternoon Examination
Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Examination (13 questions of which 7 are to be answered)
Field Hardware Software Databases Networks Information Security Data Structure & Algorithms Software Design Software Development Project Management IT Service Management System Strategy Management/Related Legislation Number of Questions Required Number of Answers x 5 (Note) 7 5 1 1 5 1 x4 Questions 1~7 Question 8 Questions 9~13
= compulsory questions = elective questions (Note) In the Software Development field, there is 1 question on each of C, COBOL, Java, assembly language, and spreadsheets. 1 question out of these must be selected and answered.
Applied Information Technology Engineer Examination (12 questions of which 6 are to be answered)
Field Management Strategy Information Strategy Strategy Planning/Consulting Techniques System Architecture Networks Databases Embedded System Development Information System Development Programming (Algorithms) Information Security Project Management IT Service Management System Audit Number of Questions Required Number of Answers
= elective questions
Questions 1~2
Questions 3~12
2 1 10 5
Appendix 1 Abstract of Aiming towards the Development of Advanced IT Human Resources

(Industrial Structure Council, Information Economy Committee, Information Service and Software Subcommittee, HRD-WG Report) 5-4 Creation of an Objective Human Resource Evaluation Mechanism by Integrating the Information Technology Engineers Examination and Skill Standards (D) - An objective human resource evaluation mechanism should be created and fixed by constructing a Common Career/Skill Framework, which can be a reference model of the current Information Technology Engineers Examination and skill standards for the various human resources. a) Creation of the Common Career/Skill Framework b) Level Judgment Based on the Common Career/Skill Framework c) Basic Configuration of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination d) Content of Questions in the New Information Technology Engineers Examination e) Implementation Methods of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination Creation of the Common Career/Skill Framework In order to create an objective human resource mechanism, the target advanced IT human resources is organized into the 7 types as indicated in section 4-1 and a Common Career/Skill Framework indicating the skills required for the career of each type is constructed. The Skill Standards for IT Professionals (ITSS), the Embedded Technology Skill Standards (ETSS), and the Users Information System Skill Standards (UISS) are reorganized under this framework, and the Information Technology Engineers Examination is positioned as a judging measure for entry, middle, and (some) high level human resources. In reorganizing the skill standards based on the Common Career/Skill Framework, work categories, level categories, level evaluation methods, and terminology are standardized. Furthermore, task skills (knowledge and experience in user tasks) and knowledge regarding global standards are positioned more clearly as skills required for advanced IT human resources. Skills required for each work type are basically grouped into the following three: (a) Knowledge acquired mainly from lectures (including PBL [Project Based Learning]), (b) Skills acquired mainly through OJT (On-the-Job Training), and (c) qualities broadly developed through social experience. Furthermore, the skill items that advanced IT human resources should obtain are organized into skill items that are common to the 3 skill standards, referring to skill items such as in the IT education curriculum standards. The Common Career/Skill Framework, which integrates the Information Technology Engineers Examination and the Human Resource Skill Standards, is promoted for international standardization.
Note: Detailed discussions will continue in the future based on the orientation below on matters including qualities and skills. Basic Strategy 2. Systems Architect Solution 5. Technical Specialist
<Common Career/Skill Framework> (Draft)
3. Service Manager
Major Category
Middle Category
Minor Category (Examples) 1. Strategist
Information Science
Information Theory Algorithm and Programming
Information theory, Discrete mathematics, Probability and statistics, Queueing, Numeric/Data representation, etc. Algorithm and data structure, Programming fundamentals, Object-orientation, Programming language, Markup language, etc. System configuration method, System performance, System reliability and economical efficiency, etc. OS, Middleware, Open source software, File system, Language processing, etc. Electric/electronic circuit, Mechanics and control, Logic circuit, etc. Usability, Universal design, Virtual reality, 3D graphics, etc. Sound processing, Image Processing, Video processing, Compression and decompression, Media integration, etc. Database design, Database operation, Transaction processing, etc. Wired and wireless communications, Network architecture, Server, Router, LAN/WAN, Ethernet, IP, etc.
4. Project Manager
2 3
Computer Component CPU, Memory, Transaction processing system, device, etc. System Component Software Hardware Human Interface Multimedia Database Network Security
Computer System
4 5 6 7
2 Technology
Technical Component
8 9 10 11
12
Knowledge
Cryptography, Security infrastructure and management, Technology evaluation, Measures, Implementation, Digital signature, etc. Software requirement definition, Software development Software Development method, Software development process, Coding, Integration, Testing, Quality, Development environment, etc.
Project Management
13
Project Management Procurement Management Service Management
Management
Integration management, Scope management, Quality management, Cost management, Time management, Human resource management, Communications management, Risk management, etc. Request for proposal, Estimate, Proposal, Selection criterion, EVM, Installation, Acceptance, Inspection, Migration, etc. Service level management, Incident management, Configuration management, Change management, Resource management, Capacity management, Information asset management, Security management, etc. System audit, Information security audit, Audit technique, IT governance, Internal control, Business continuity, etc. Modeling, System design, Requirement definition, Architecture design, etc.
14
Service Management
15
16 17
System Audit System Design System Strategy Business Industry, Embedded Product Domain Business Strategy Management Corporate Activities
System Strategy
B
18 IT strategy, Return on investment, Enterprise architecture, Business architecture, SOA, etc. Business field (Financial sector, Distribution sector, Public sector, etc.), Embedded product (Mobile, Automobile, Home Electronics, etc.), etc. Business management theory, SCM, CRM, BPR, etc. Organizational theory, Decision-making theory, Corporate accounting, Business finance, etc.
Business Strategy
Strategy
19
20
Corporate and Legal Affairs
21
A
22
Legal Affairs
Intellectual property right, Contract, Law, Engineer ethics, Standardization, etc.
Personal
Qualities Skills
9 10
23 24
Soft Skills
Communication, Presentation, Negotiation, Leadership, Mentoring, etc.
A B C B A
B B
B B
A B
C B
Skills Gained from Problem-finding ability, Abstraction ability, Problem-solving Repeated Experience ability, etc.
* Creator knowledge items cannot be organized indiscriminately and so are not described in this table.
Not absolutely necessary Should be somewhat aware of it as a point of knowledge A certain level of understanding is required Indispensable core knowledge item, thorough knowledge essential (matter tested in the Advanced Examination Afternoon questions)
Level Judgment Based on the Common Career/Skill Framework There are seven levels in the Common Career/Skill Framework from 1 to 7, classified into level 1 as entry level, levels 2 and 3 as middle level, levels 4 and 5 as high level, and levels 6 and 7 as super high level. Of these, Advanced Human Resources are level 4 or above. The following describes the image of levels 5 to 7 in more detail. Level 5: High end player on a corporate level Level 6: High end player on a domestic level Level 7: Domestic High-End Players Accepted Internationally The evaluation for levels 1 ~ 3 is conducted on a capability basis of knowledge and skills, and is basically certified as that level by a pass in the Information Technology Engineers Examination. On the other hand, evaluation for level 4 and above is conducted on an achievement basis of knowledge, skills, and qualities, and in addition to the Information Technology Engineers Examination, task experience verification and an interview are also used in combination. Level 4 is judged according to the Information Technology Engineers Examination and verification of task experience. Furthermore, the judgment of level 5 is basically entrusted to voluntary efforts within the private sector on a guideline basis. Meanwhile, from the standpoint of ensuring consistency domestically, with regard to levels 6 and 7, a scheme for judging through mutual peer reviews of equivalent level high end players is constructed. From the standpoint of utilization of private sector dynamism, a scheme (application method, assessment criteria, assessment structure, assessment fee, etc.) is constructed to position private sector examinations and other human resource evaluation techniques under each skill standard.
Advanced IT Human Resources
SuperHigh
Level 7 Level 6 Level 5 Level 4 Level 3
Domestic High-End Players Accepted Internationally High-End Players on a Domestic Level High-End Players on a Corporate Level Advanced Knowledge and Skills Applicable Knowledge and Skills Basic Knowledge and Skills Minimum Required Basic Knowledge
Performance (Achievement) Basis
Professional Committee Evaluated by Each Corporation
Work Experience, Interview, etc.
The new exam corresponds up to level 4. Advanced Exam Middle Exam Basic Exam Entry Exam
High
Exam Result and Work Experience
Skill (Ability) Basis
Middle
Level 2 Level 1
Entry
Exam Result
Basic Configuration of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination While pursuing consistency with the Common Career/Skill Framework, the Information Technology Engineers Examination is intended to be implemented from the fall 2008 session with the following basic configuration. (The examination names below are tentative) Entry Examination: Examines the minimum basic knowledge required for business workers involved in information technology, and examines fundamental knowledge common to business workers in their first year
including not only those that have taken information engineering course curriculums but also those have taken other science and humanities courses. Successful candidates correspond to level 1 of the Common Career/Skill Framework. The examination is promoted to those who are still students, so that it may function as a passport in finding a job. The subtitle of the examination is IT Passport Examination (tentative). The current Systems Administrator Examination is dissolved in order that a better examination system may be formed. The examination is implemented with CBT. In addition to the current pass/fail system, introduction of a scoring point system is considered. Fundamental Examination: Examines fundamental knowledge and skills required for the development of individuals aiming to become an advanced human resource. Those who have already studied information engineering and acquired practical knowledge pass. Successful candidates correspond to level 2 of the Common Career/Skill Framework. The subtitle of the examination is Information Technology Entry Professional Examination (tentative). This is reorganized from the current Fundamental Information Technology Engineers Examination. Middle Examination: Examines applicative knowledge and skills required to become an advanced IT human resource, and targets individuals who have established their own direction as an advanced IT human resource. Successful candidates correspond to level 3 of the Common Career/Skill Framework. The subtitle of the examination i Information Technology Middle Professional Examination (tentative). This is reorganized from the current Software Design & Development Engineer Examination. The categories are revised if required in cases such as when the scope becomes too broad for the same examination categories. Advanced Examination: Examines advanced and specialist knowledge and skills related to information technology and tasks required to be an advanced IT human resource. Successful candidates are eligible to obtain level 4 of the Common Career/Skill Framework. In addition to the examination result, the judging of level 4 includes verification of achievements in practical experience. The subtitle of the examination is Information Technology High Professional Examination (tentative). The current Advanced Examination is reorganized, and examination categories are created based on the 7 human resource types below. Strategist Formulates and proposes basic strategies that utilize IT to reform, sophisticate, and optimize corporate business strategies (business models) or particular processes in corporate activities. Also, for embedded system products, formulates and proposes basic strategies to realize new values through utilization of software in the target product. System Architect In response to IT basic strategy proposals from strategists, organizes systemization
requirements to construct solutions, and designs the required systems and applications. Also, defines requirements needed for the development of embedded system products, and designs the architecture to realize them. Project Manager As the person in charge of a system development project, creates project plans, secures the required personnel and resources, and takes responsibility for budget, delivery dates, and quality requirements. Technical Specialist (Network, Database, Embedded Systems) For the required system, utilizes specific techniques for (a) Networks, (b) Databases, or (c) Embedded Systems in order to construct optimal system infrastructure and support the design, construction, and production of applications and embedded systems. IT Service Manager For the constructed systems and products, ensures stable operations and acts to minimize damage in the event of an incident as well as provides continuous quality management, etc. to provide highly safe and reliable services. Security For the planning, design, construction, and operation of information systems that require particularly high-level security, supports security functions, or prepares a secure development project environment. System Auditing Comprehensively checks and evaluates information system and embedded system products from a position independent of auditees, reports audit results to the top management and others, and recommends points for improvement.
<Direction of the Restructuring of the Current Skill Standards and Information Technology Engineers Examination>
Current Skill Standards (34 Job Titles)
IT: Skill Standards for IT Professionals (11) ET: Embedded Technology Skill Standards (10) UI: Users' Information Systems Skill Standards (13)
Skill Standards
Human Resources Type
Human Resource Category
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Level 4
Assessed by Exam Result, Work Experience, etc.
Level 5
Level 6
Level 7
Assessed by Exam Result
Assessed by Work Experience, Evaluation of Professionals, etc.
Middle Examination ( Tentative Name )
2. Systems Architect
3. Service Manager
Solution
4. Project Manager
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33
ET UI UI ET ET ET ET ET Creation
*2
5. Technical Specialist
6. Creator 7. Other
Creators are ineligible for assessment by the ITEE. Correspond to education category in ITSS
34
Education
* 1: Although the Information Security Engineer Examination and Systems Auditor Examination are designed
to examine the human resource models of Service Manager or Technical Specialist, these examinations remain unchanged.
* 2: In the new human resource models application design is part of the Systems Architect category,
while application implementation is part of the Technical Specialist category. In the examination, topics from application design to implementation is included in the Systems Architect Examination.
Content of Questions in the New Information Technology Engineers Examination In part of the Advanced Examinations multiple-choice questions type, a skill set method is introduced where possible, such as a selection system where questions are selected according to skills. The question type is multiple-choice for the Entry Examination, and for the others multiplechoice, short answer, and essay format are used in combination. Since IT has spread as a competitive resource in all dimensions of corporate activity and thorough knowledge of users tasks is required for the development and diffusion of module products, questions are task biased on prerequisite common understanding of tasks in various industries such as finance, manufacturing, distribution, and public sector (particularly in examination categories such as strategist, system architect, and system audit). However, from the standpoint of maintaining fairness, there are still also task neutral questions as before. Also, the importance of providing solutions utilizing IT in all task areas is increasing, therefore there are more questions on new industries such as medical and transportation. Moreover, from the users point of view, there are also questions on fields of how to write request for proposals (RFPs), estimation methods, knowledge of contracts, and management of outsourcing, etc. Implementation Methods etc. of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination In the new Information Technology Engineers Examination system, exemption of part of the examination is considered for those who have completed a training program, etc. that satisfies the
Technical Specialist Exam
Application Specialist IT Specialist Software Development Domain Specialist Software Engineer QA Specialist Test Engineer
Entry Examination ( Tentative Name )
Basic Examination ( Tentative Name )
Work Experience Verification
Project
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Business Strategist IS Strategist Program Manager IS Analyst Marketing Sales Consultant Product Manager IS Architect IT Architect Systems Architect IS Operation IS Administrator Security Administrator IS Staff IS Auditor IT Service Management Customer Service Project Manager Project Management Project Manager Bridge SE Development Process Improvement Specialist System Designer Application Designer
UI UI UI UI ET UI ET UI UI UI UI UI UI ET ET
Basic Strategy
1. Strategist
Service Manager
Strategist Exam
necessary conditions. Along with this, if the dynamism of private enterprises etc. is realized based on opinions from relevant parties, dissolution and evolvement of the Information Technology Engineers Examination exceptional measures provided under the Structural Reform Special District System, etc. into the above exemption system is be considered. A high quality examination is implemented efficiently by acquisition of examination sites and the implementation of the examinations in the 2 areas where the project is supposed to be carried out in the fiscal year of 2008 by the successful bidders under the basic policies of the Act Regarding the Reform of Public Services by the Introduction of Competition (the Public Services Reform Act). Also, based on evaluation of the overall tasks implemented by successful bidders, if there is no fear of causing obstruction to the stable implementation of examinations, based on results of review of the Information Technology Engineers Examination system, utilization of private sector competitive bidding is considered for fiscal year 2008 and later, in collaboration with the public-private competitive bidding administrative committee. Furthermore, from the standpoint of utilizing private sector dynamism, opening up implementation of CBT method based examinations to the private sector is considered when establishing the Entry Examination. Note that with regard to CBT method examinations, possibility of utilization of the method in the other examinations in future is considered based on the implementation status with the Entry Examination. With regard to some of the examinations which relate to security and system reliability, having in mind the possibility of evolving them into qualification examinations in the future, actual evolvement into qualifications is pursued by means such as stipulating the relevant jobs as recommended job types in the different guidelines for government procurement. Especially with regard to successful candidates in the Advanced Examinations, along with clearly indicating the existence of advanced IT human resources to the society, and in parallel with guaranteeing the capability of successful candidates in line with the skill standard evaluation cycle, the construction of a registration system to provide incentives to increase skills further is considered. Together with this, issuance of an IC card recorded with examination grades, etc. to successful candidates who request so is considered.
Appendix 2
Type of Job
Structure of Skill Standards

Career Framework (V2 2006)>
IT Specialist Application Specialist Software Development Customer Service IT Service Management Education Sales Consulting sales by visiting customers Consultant IT Architect Project Management
<Skill Standards for IT Professionals (ITSS)

Marketing
Product sales by visiting customers
BT (Business Transformation)
Software product development
Business application package
Application of package
System development
Facility management
Application software
Operating system
Sales by media
IT outsourcing
Network service
Specialized Field
Systems management
Planning of training programs
Business application system
Infrastructure architecture
Operational management
Marketing management
Application architecture
Integration architecture
Sales channel strategy
Market communication
Systems management
Distributed computing
Service desk
Level 7 High level Level 6 Level 5 Middle level Level 4 Level 3 Level 2 Level 1
Entry level
Levels 5 through 7 (High Level): In these levels, the lead is taken in creating technologies, methodology, and business in and outside the company. At level 7, in particular, it is necessary to take the lead in the development and commercialization of advanced services even in view of the entire market. Contribution to the formulation and execution of internal strategy is also required for skill development. Levels 3 and 4 (Middle Level): In these levels, skill specialism is well established as a professional, and the lead is taken in the discovery and solution of problems of tasks independently utilizing ones own skills. Continuous enhancement of ones own skills is required for skill development. Also, active contribution to training subordinates is also required for level 4. Levels 1 and 2 (Entry Level): In these levels, skill specialism as a professional is yet to be established, and discovery and solution of task problems can be conducted under the guidance of superiors for the relevant job type. Proactive enhancement of skills for the realization of ones career path is required for skill development.
IT
Instructions
Middleware
Operation
Hardware
Database
Software
Platform
Network
Security
<Embedded Technology Skill Standards (ETSS) Version 1.1)>

Job Type
Product Manager Project Manager Domain Specialist Systems Architect
Career Framework (Career Criteria

Development Process QA Improvement Specialist Specialist
Software Engineer
Bridge SE
Test Engineer
Embedded Application
Embedded Application
Embedded Software
Embedded Software
Embedded Software
Embedded Software
Embedded Software
Embedded Platform
Embedded Platform
Embedded Related
Embedded System
Embedded System
Specialism
Development
Development
Development
Development
Development
Development
Development
Development
Development
Level 7 High Level Level 6 Level 5 Middle Level Level 4 Level 3 Level 2 Level 1
Levels 5 trough 7 (High Level): In these levels, the lead is taken in technology, methodology, and business relating to the relevant job type/specialism in and outside the company. Also, significant contribution to the formulation and execution of internal human resource investment strategy is also required. At level 7, in particular, it is necessary to take the lead in and outside the company in the development and standardization of new technology. Level 3 and 4 (Middle Level): In these levels, the lead is taken in the discovery and solution of task problems. Also, active contribution to training of lower level individuals is also required. Levels 1 and 2 (Entry Level): In these levels, discovery and solution of task problems can be conducted under the guidance of superiors in the relevant job type.
Entry Level
Development
Technology
<Users Information System Skill Standards (UISS)

Human Business Strategist Model Career Level Resource Application Designer Program Manager
Career Framework (Ver. 1.1)>
Security Administrator
System Designer
Project Manager
IS Administrator
IS Operation
IS Strategist
IS Architect
IS Analyst
7 High 6 5 Middle 4 3 2 1
The career levels are set in 7 stages from the following 3 standpoints. Extent of contribution of tasks, level of recognition in and outside the company, and achievement of required work (overall degree of exhibition of capabilities) The extent of contribution of tasks is a central concept to the Career Framework, and is a measure of contribution of the tasks to the realization of business strategies, in other words, to what extent the relevant task will contribute to business. To the line of business, company, company group (levels 3 through 7) To the project (levels 2 through 6) To the tasks in charge (levels 1 through 5) Furthermore, the level of recognition as an indicator to provide a career target model to aim for, supplements the extent of contribution of tasks, and is set on the following 3 levels in line with concept of the Skill Standards for IT Professionals. Level 7: Recognized as a target in and outside the company Level 6: Recognized within and outside the company Level 5: Recognized within the company Unlike the IS Skill Level of skill evaluations, the level of achievement of required work is achieved using overall capabilities including common skills and other specialist skills, and is set on the following 4 levels in line with the Skill Standards for IT Professionals. Level 4: Ability to supervise Level 3: Ability to work independently Level 2: Ability to work independently to a certain extent Level 1: Ability to work under supervision
Entry
IS Auditor
IS Staff
New Examination System Deliberation Committee Members List

<Chairperson> Yoshiaki IWAMARU
Deputy Chief Information Officer(CIO), Financial Service Agency(FSA), Government of JAPAN
Members Yuichi AIDA Yukari AOKI Masahiko ENDO Takao FUTAGAMI Hisato HAMA Yasuhisa ITOH Katsuhiko KAKEHI
Toshikuni KOGA Yoshihiro MATSUDA Kazuhiko SATO Takashi SUGINO Yasuo TOKUTAKE Chiharu TSUNODA Hiroki TSUSHIMA Tetsuya USHIO Yoshikazu YAMAMOTO Koki YODOGAWA
Managing Executive Officer, Engineering Dev., TIS Inc. Senior Consultant, Research & Consulting Division, The Japan Research Institute, Limited Senior Executive Officer, Technical Planning Department, Mizuho Information & Research Institute, Inc. Chief Engineer, Software Research Division, TOYO Corporation Senior HRD consultant, Corporate Technology Training Center, HRD Company, Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. Division Manager, Integrated Technology Delivery, Service Management #1, System Service, IBM Japan Services Company Ltd. Professor, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University Chairperson, Committee of Information Processing Education, Information Processing Society of Japan Principal, Japan Electronics College Manager, Education Planning Group, Education Center Department, Human Resources Development Division, Hitachi Software Engineering Co., Ltd., (occupation not publicized) Professor, Center for Information Science, Kokushikan University (occupation not publicized) General Manager, Business Planning & Promotion, Japan Users Association of Information Systems Sales Consulting Director, Oracle Corporation Japan Deputy General Manager, Corporate Planning Division, Hitachi Systems & Services, Inc. Professor, Department of Information and Computer Science, Faculty of Science & Technology, Keio University General Manager, Business Process & IT Management Research Dept., Nomura Research Institute, Ltd. listed in alphabetical order
Observers Toshihide YAHIRO Toshikazu OKUYA Daiki NAKAMURA
Director, Information Services Industry Division, Commerce and Information Policy Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Deputy Director, Information Services Industry Division, Commerce and Information Policy Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Deputy Director, Information Services Industry Division, Commerce and
Yuichi NAGAMI Tomoya ISOGAI
Information Policy Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Assistant Chief, Information Services Industry Division, Commerce and Information Policy Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Assistant Chief, Information Services Industry Division, Commerce and Information Policy Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Senior Vice President, Japan Information Technology Services Industry Association,
Sachio TAHARA
New Examination System Deliberation Committee Deliberation History

April 27, 2007 Session 1 New Examination System Deliberation Committee Agenda: (1) Direction of the Information Technology Engineers Examination reform (2) Proposed matters for discussion, future procedure Session 2 New Examination System Deliberation Committee Agenda: (1) Common Career/Skill Framework (2) Human resource models for each examination category Session 3 New Examination System Deliberation Committee Agenda: (1) Status of discussion of the Common Career/Skill Framework (2) Human resource models for each examination category (contd) (3) Configuration design of the new examination system Session 4 New Examination System Deliberation Committee Agenda: (1) Human Resources Development Working Group Final Report (2) Level 1 Examination interim report (3) Proposed examination category names (4) Configuration design of the new examination system (contd) (5) Grading method, pass criteria, information disclosure Session 5 New Examination System Deliberation Committee Agenda: (1) Interim collation of discussion regarding the new examination system Information Technology Engineers Examination Guide to the New Examination
May 18, 2007
June 22, 2007
August 1, 2007
August 29, 2007
(Sep. 7 ~ 27, 2007)
System - A Guidepost to Advanced IT Human Resources Public comment invited on the New Examination System Deliberation Committee Interim Report (draft) November 21, 2007 Session 6 New Examination System Deliberation Committee Agenda: (1) Information Technology Engineers Examination Guide to the New Examination System (Final Draft Report)

1 .Guide To New Exam

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Information Technology Engineers Examination

Guide to the New Examination System

-- A Guidepost to Advanced IT Human Resources --

Information-technology Promotion Agency New Examination System Deliberation Committee Report

December 25, 2007

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

Annex 1 Annex 2 Annex 3

(Level 1 Examination Working Group Report) ......................................................................... 89

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

1 Summary of the System Revision

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

Performance (Achievement) Basis

Work Experience, Interview, etc.

Exam Result and Work Experience

Evaluated by Each Corporation

The new exam corresponds up to level 4.

Advanced Exam Middle Exam Basic Exam Entry Exam

Applicable Knowledge and Skills

Skill (Ability) Basis

Basic Knowledge and Skills Minimum Required Basic Knowledge

indicates the scope of the Examination System Reform

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

Overview of Each Skill Standard (source: based on HRD-WG Report)

Publication Date Administration Body Purpose

December 2002 IPA: IT Skill Standard Center

Main Target Focus

Vendors Human Resources (Career Framework)

(Note) For details of the structures, refer to Appendix 2.

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

(Source: based on HRD-WG Report)

4) Project Manager 5) Technical Specialist

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

Current Skill Standards (34 Job Titles)

Human Resources Type

Human Resource Category

Assessed by Exam Result

Assessed by Work Experience, Evaluation of Professionals, etc.

Work Experience Verification & Evaluation of Professionals and Experts etc.

Middle Examination ( Tentative Name )

Development Environment Engineer

indicates the scope of the examination system reform.

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

Technical Specialist Exam

Work Experience Verification & Evaluation of Professionals and Experts etc.

Work Experience Verification & Evaluation of Professionals and Experts etc.

Entry Examination ( Tentative Name )

Basic Examination ( Tentative Name )

Systems Architect Exam

Work Experience Verification

Systems Architect Exam

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

2 Outline of the New Information Technology Engineers Examination System

The New Categories of the Information Technology Engineers Examination

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008

Examination Categories, and Associated Human Resource Models and Levels

Level 4 Knowledge & Skills

Applied Information Technology Engineer Exam (AP)

Fundamental Information Technology Engineer Exam (FE)

IT Passport Exam (IP)

Copyright(c) Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan. All rights reserved 2008