The SPACE Model
The OBM Specialist Certificate introduces participants to the SPACE Model of OBM application—Scope, Pinpoint, Assess, Change, Embed. Similar to Six Sigma’s DMAIC, this structured framework provides a common language, set of tools, and systematic process for identifying, analyzing, and addressing workplace challenges.
Upon completion, participants will be able to:
- Identify and define a business opportunity in their workplace
- Design an OBM project that addresses this opportunity
- Organize and lead a project team while obtaining organizational support
- Apply evidence-based methods to implement and sustain improvements
A fillable PDF toolkit based on the SPACE Model is included with the program.
Course Structure and Requirements
The certificate program is delivered online through Moodle and is organized into five modules, each corresponding to a phase of the SPACE Model:
- Scope – Frame the organizational opportunity
- Pinpoint – Define key behaviors or processes to address
- Assess – Collect and analyze relevant data
- Change – Implement evidence-based interventions
- Embed – Ensure changes are sustained and integrated
Each module requires an estimated 2.5 to 4.5 hours to complete and includes assigned readings, video lectures, applied activities, and discussion prompts. Students have four months of access from the date of registration.
To earn the OBM Specialist Certificate, participants must complete all required coursework, assignments, and discussions across the five modules.
Intended Audience
The OBM Specialist Certificate is designed for a broad audience:
- Behavior analysts with or without prior OBM training
- Professionals across industries seeking to apply behavioral principles to organizational challenges
- Consultants interested in expanding their expertise in organizational improvement
Graduates of the program frequently work in applied behavior analysis (ABA) clinical settings, using OBM to improve processes such as intervention integrity, onboarding, supervision, training, billing, and scheduling. Others apply OBM in consulting, corporate operations, and leadership development.
Career Applications
Individuals who complete this program may pursue or strengthen roles such as:
- Leadership Development Manager
- Continuous Improvement Consultant
- Organizational Development Practitioner
- Manager of Learning and Development
- Director of Safety Solutions
- Director of Talent Development
- Senior Consultant in Change Management
Academic Note
In support of dissemination, the program is accessible to individuals without formal training in behavior analysis. A Foundations Module is available to introduce core ABA concepts for those new to the field. This content is optional for students with prior ABA training and does not count toward BACB CEUs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The OBM Specialist Certificate introduces learners to OBM methods and tools through a simulated project. Unlike the previous certificate, participants no longer need to be employed or apply OBM in their current workplace to complete the program. Instead, students practice with case studies and real-world scenarios while building fluency with OBM tools.
The program includes a fillable PDF toolkit based on the SPACE Model—Scope, Pinpoint, Assess, Change, Embed. By the end of the course, students are prepared to begin applying OBM in organizational settings.
The OBM Specialist Certificate is a professional development certificate that provides continuing education units (CEUs) for behavior analysts and related professionals. CEUs earned can be applied toward maintaining existing professional certifications, such as those issued by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
At present, no accrediting body certifies individuals specifically in OBM. While OBM programs are increasingly recognized as meaningful credentials, they do not constitute a professional certification. Programs resulting in professional certification in the U.S. are typically accredited by bodies such as the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The Association for Professional Behavior Analysts (APBA) provides more information on this distinction.
No. The OBM Specialist Certificate is open to all learners. A BACB certification or a specific degree is not required. The course includes an optional Foundations Module covering the basics of behavior analysis and OBM for students new to the field or those seeking a refresher.
No textbook is required. All necessary materials are included. Students receive access to the interactive SPACE Model Toolkit at the start of the course. A printed workbook is also available for those who prefer a physical study aid, which includes study questions, glossaries, guided notes, and a print version of the toolkit.
The course is fully online and self-paced within a four-month access period. It consists of five modules, each including readings, video lectures, knowledge checks, and discussions. Each module typically requires 2–3 hours to complete, though timing may vary. Suggested due dates are provided to help with pacing, but students may progress at their own speed as long as the course is completed before access expires.
This program is ideal for:
- Behavior analysts (with or without OBM training)
- Professionals in clinical ABA roles
- Individuals without formal behavior analysis training
- Consultants or professionals seeking to apply OBM in their workplace or transition into OBM-related roles
Students finish the course with a practical understanding of how to apply OBM to workplace challenges—from identifying opportunities to designing organizational improvements.
OBM training can support advancement or transition into roles such as:
- Leadership Development Manager
- Organizational Development Practitioner
- Continuous Improvement Consultant
- Manager of Learning and Development
- Director of Operational Excellence
- Director of Safety Solutions
- Consultant / Senior Consultant
- Director of Talent Development
No. While BACB certification is important for clinical applications of behavior analysis, it is not required for OBM-focused roles. However, foundational training in behavior analysis is recommended to strengthen understanding and effectiveness when applying OBM methods.
You may request a refund within 30-days of enrolling in the course with the following conditions:
- If you have not accessed any course materials you may receive a full refund.
- If you have accessed course materials and have not progressed past the Foundations module, a $25 cancellation fee applies.
- If you have progressed past the Foundations module a refund cannot be issued.
Questions?
If you have any questions or need assistance with the course, reach out to us at ceu@fit.edu.
