Certifications from various organizations can hold value (similar to completing any CPR course, which is better than having no knowledge). However, the certification awarded by an independent, widely recognized authority in the field carries the utmost professional validity. It signifies that the certified individual has truly and consistently attained mastery of the essential content for their profession.
Professional organizations, aimed at self-regulation and elevating industry standards, contribute significantly through networking and informal continuing education. Nevertheless, they lack the capacity for independent validation of vital knowledge and skills. This limitation arises because, by definition, they are not entirely independent entities.