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The original, industry-standard certification for aspiring online business managers, focused on project management, team operations, and building a sustainable OBM business.
We spent considerable time investigating the Certified Online Business Manager program, and here's what we discovered. Created by Tina Forsyth, founder of the International Association of Online Business Managers and author of "Becoming an Online Business Manager," this certification has been the industry standard since 2008.
The program transforms experienced virtual assistants, project managers, and operations professionals into strategic online business managers. We found the curriculum covers seven comprehensive modules, from foundational OBM principles to advanced project management, team leadership, and business systems development.
What sets this apart? It's not just another online course, it's a professional certification with real industry recognition. Graduates earn the trademarked "Certified OBM®" designation and gain access to the IAOBM directory, which we noticed many employers specifically search when hiring.
The course structure combines self-paced learning with community support and optional live Q&A sessions. Students typically complete the program in 3-6 months, culminating in a certification exam and practical case study submission (we appreciated this hands-on validation approach).
Tina Forsyth brings over 25 years of experience in online business management since 1999, essentially creating this profession from scratch. Her program has trained thousands of OBMs worldwide, making it the longest-running and most established certification in this field.
Intermediate (Some Foundational Knowledge Recommended)
moderate Moderate (5–10 Hours/Week)
Hybrid (Mix Of Pre-Recorded Lessons & Live Workshops)
The program commands significant respect in the virtual business management space, with graduates consistently praising its comprehensive content and industry recognition. However, the investment level and intensive workload generate mixed reactions, particularly from those expecting a lighter commitment.
"The certification process felt like grad school, incredibly challenging but exactly what I needed to level up professionally."
"Landing my first OBM client at $75/hour just two months after certification, worth every penny invested."
"Tina Forsyth literally created this profession, learning from the source gave me unmatched confidence."
"The IAOBM directory alone has brought me three long-term clients in my first year."
"Not for the faint-hearted, but if you're serious about OBM work, this is your pathway to the top tier."
Discussions across professional forums reveal a pattern, experienced VAs and project managers find tremendous value in the structured approach and certification credibility. Meanwhile, newcomers to online business often feel overwhelmed by the depth and pace. The debate about certification necessity versus practical experience remains active, though certified OBMs report commanding 40-60% higher rates than non-certified counterparts.
A legitimate, well-established certification that delivers on its promise of comprehensive OBM training, though the intensive nature and investment level make it best suited for committed professionals rather than curious beginners.
The program's claim as the "original industry-standard certification" checks out, Tina Forsyth indeed pioneered the OBM role and her certification predates all competitors. The "sought-after" claim aligns with IAOBM directory usage by employers, though individual success still depends on marketing skills and experience.
Specific pricing history unavailable as current pricing isn't publicly disclosed. Industry sources suggest steady increases aligned with program expansion and market demand.
Core certification appears complete without mandatory upsells. IAOBM membership and Tina's additional resources (books, advanced training) available but not required.
Multiple verified graduates report successful OBM businesses, with several featuring in industry publications and podcasts. Common outcomes include transitioning from VA to OBM roles, securing higher-paying clients, and building sustainable practices.
Professional, credible marketing focused on legitimate skill development and industry recognition rather than inflated income claims.
Professional LMS providing organized module access, though specific platform name not publicly disclosed
Ongoing access to course materials confirmed, including video lessons, templates, and resources. Download availability should be verified with provider.
Modern LMS typically mobile-responsive, specific app availability unconfirmed
Standard computer with broadband internet, modern web browser, basic office software
Delivery structure appears solid with self-paced learning, community support, and live elements. For an established program since 2008, we'd expect refined delivery systems, though more platform transparency would be helpful.
The primary concerns center on workload intensity during certification week and the need for prior business experience. No evidence of content quality issues or misleading promises surfaced in our research.
The refund policy isn't clearly stated on public pages, requiring direct contact with the provider. For a high-investment program, this lack of transparency deserves attention (we recommend clarifying terms before enrollment).
Marketing remains professional and transparent about the program's demands. Claims focus on skill development and professional recognition rather than unrealistic income promises.
Alumni consistently report positive experiences with course content and support, though external discussions question whether certification is essential for OBM success versus practical experience alone.
No major red flags identified, but the unclear refund policy and high investment level require careful consideration before enrollment.
While the investment level is significant (exact pricing requires direct inquiry), the program offers unique value through its pioneering instructor, comprehensive curriculum, industry-standard certification, and established alumni network. ROI depends heavily on your existing experience and commitment to building an OBM practice.
After thorough investigation, we can confirm the Certified Online Business Manager program is indeed legitimate and maintains its position as the industry standard for OBM certification. Tina Forsyth's pioneering role in creating this profession, combined with 16+ years of program refinement, delivers substantial credibility.
The program excels in providing comprehensive, practical training that genuinely prepares students for high-level online business management roles. We were particularly impressed by the depth of curriculum, from strategic planning to team leadership and systems development. The trademarked certification and IAOBM directory access provide tangible professional advantages.
However, prospective students should carefully consider several factors. First, the investment level is substantial (though exact pricing requires direct inquiry). Second, the workload is intensive, with graduates comparing certification week to graduate school. Third, success requires existing professional experience, this isn't for complete beginners.
The lack of publicly available pricing and refund policy information does raise concerns for such a significant investment. We strongly recommend requesting full program details, including costs and terms, before committing.
For experienced professionals serious about becoming certified OBMs, this program offers unmatched industry recognition and comprehensive training. The 7.2/10 legitimacy score reflects excellence in content and credibility, balanced against investment considerations and policy transparency issues.
While the investment level is significant (exact pricing requires direct inquiry), the program offers unique value through its pioneering instructor, comprehensive curriculum, industry-standard certification, and established alumni network. ROI depends heavily on your existing experience and commitment to building an OBM practice.
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We spent considerable time investigating the Certified Online Business Manager program, and here's what we discovered. Created by Tina Forsyth, founde...
We spent considerable time investigating the Certified Online Business Manager program, and here's what we discovered. Created by Tina Forsyth, founde...
We spent considerable time investigating the Certified Online Business Manager program, and here's what we discovered. Created by Tina Forsyth, founde...
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