Certified Implementation Partners

A Nasdaq Certified Implementation Partner refers to a company that has undergone a formal certification process provided by Nasdaq to implement Calypso and AxiomSL solutions, on Nasdaq’s behalf. This certification signifies that the partner possesses a high level of expertise, knowledge of Nasdaq’s best practices, and experience in successfully implementing Nasdaq’s solutions for clients.

To become a Nasdaq Certified Implementation Partner, a service partner needs to meet certain criteria set by Nasdaq, which includes demonstrating proficiency in deploying Nasdaq’s software, as well as showcasing a track record of successful client projects. Once certified, a partner gains the recognition and endorsement of Nasdaq as a trusted and capable entity to implement Nasdaq’s products.

This certification is aimed at ensuring that Nasdaq clients receive top-notch service and assistance when implementing Nasdaq’s technologies, and it provides a level of assurance that the partner is capable of delivering effective solutions tailored to clients’ specific needs, while adhering to native functionalities where possible.

As a result, clients seeking to adopt Nasdaq’s products can benefit from working with Certified Implementation Partners, as these partners have the official endorsement and backing of Nasdaq, ensuring a smoother and more efficient implementation process and ultimately leading to a successful integration of Nasdaq’s solutions into the clients’ workflows.

Short answer: “as soon as possible”.

Engaging an Nasdaq Certified Implementation Partner (CIP) is crucial for successful implementation of AxiomSL or Calypso. Initiating this relationship early in the project fosters a strong bond that sets the stage for success. From inception to execution, Nasdaq CIPs provide comprehensive guidance that goes beyond technicalities. Clear objectives are the foundation, and a CIP guides the transition from defining goals to implementing strategy. They simplify complexities, provide efficient timelines, and refine your strategic vision by helping you set success metrics and align goals with achievable outcomes. Their insights, drawn from experience and expertise, elevate your vision and empower you to realize the full potential of your investment. Late engagement often means missed opportunities to incorporate valuable insights, adjustments, and enhancements. By partnering early, you tap into a wealth of expertise that can enhance your project’s depth and breadth.

In essence, an Nasdaq CIP is a strategic ally that unlocks seamless execution and exponential project outcomes.

Selecting the ideal Nasdaq Certified Implementation Partner requires an assessment of several key factors. Begin by defining your project’s specific requirements, goals, scope, and budget. This clarity will serve as a benchmark to evaluate potential partners. Next, consider the partner’s industry expertise and experience. Opt for a partner with a proven track record in your region and segment, as their familiarity with your sector’s nuances (Buy side, Sell side, Insurance, Hedge Fund, Central Bank, CCP, and regulatory requirements), specific know-how of your end users and integration landscape, can prove invaluable in delivering tailored solutions.

Review the partners’ certifications, case studies, and references to gauge reliability, work quality, and adherence to deadlines. Inquire about their team expertise and collaboration approach. Lastly, consider compatibility, cultural fit, trust, and reputation. A Nasdaq Certified Implementation Partner that aligns with your objectives, values, and requirements is more likely to pave the way for a successful implementation journey.

Nasdaq has carefully selected and vetted those partners that form part of the Certified Implementation Partner ecosystem based on their track record of successful implementations and customer satisfaction. These are partners that have worked hand-in-hand for many years with Nasdaq, and posess up to date knowledge and wide industry experience. Nasdaq benchmarks its partners by the number of successful projects delivered, the end-customer’s satisfaction and internal key performance indicators. Only the best implementation specialists have been invited to form part of the Nasdaq Certified Implementation partnership.

However, if you’ve chosen an implementation partner that is not listed on our website, it’s important to thoroughly evaluate their qualifications, capabilities, and compatibility with your project. While our website does not include every potential partner, there are several steps you can take to ensure that the partner you’ve selected is a suitable choice:

1. Verify Credentials: Research the partner’s background, experience, and expertise independently. Look for information about their past projects, industry reputation, and any relevant certifications or qualifications.

2. Ask for References: Request references from the partner. Speaking with their past clients can provide insights into their performance, reliability, and ability to deliver on their commitments.

3. Review Case Studies: If available, review case studies or project summaries that highlight their previous work. This can give you an idea of their capabilities and the types of projects they have successfully completed.

4. Interview the Partner: Schedule a meeting or call with the partner’s team to discuss your project in detail. This is an opportunity to ask questions, clarify expectations, and gauge their understanding of your needs.

5. Assess Alignment: Evaluate whether the partner’s expertise aligns with the specific requirements of your project. Consider their experience with similar technologies, industries, and project complexities.

6. Discuss Project Plan: Request a detailed project plan that outlines the steps, timeline, milestones, and resources required for the implementation. This will help you assess their approach to project management.

7. Consider Compatibility and Evaluate Communication: Assess how well the partner’s working style, values, and approach align with your organization’s culture and values. Effective communication is crucial for a successful partnership. Assess how responsive and clear the partner is in their interactions with you.

8. Review Contract and Agreement: Ensure that the terms and conditions in the contract align with your expectations and protect your interests. Pay attention to issues related to deliverables, timelines, costs, and potential contingencies.

9. Have a Backup Plan: It’s wise to have a contingency plan in case the partnership doesn’t work out as expected. Identify potential alternative partners in case you need to make a switch.

Remember that the success of an implementation partnership goes beyond the partner’s presence on a website. Thorough due diligence, open communication, and a comprehensive evaluation process are essential to making an informed decision and maximizing the chances of a successful implementation.

The obligations of partners under the Nasdaq Certified Implementation Partner (CIP) Program are outlined in a contract between Nasdaq and the partner. Nasdaq’s Service Partner Management group conducts annual benchmark assessments to ensure CIP compliance with obligations and adherence to best practices. The partnership undergoes a comprehensive reassessment every two years, and in instances where partners fail to meet the CIP program criteria, the contract is not renewed. Here are some responsibilities that partners have under the program:

1. Product Knowledge and Expertise: Nasdaq Certified Implementation Partners are expected to have a deep understanding of Nasdaq’s AxiomSL or Calypso products, features, and functionalities. This knowledge ensures they can effectively deploy and configure solutions to meet clients’ needs.

2. Certification Requirements: Partners are obligated to meet the certification criteria set by Nasdaq. This involves completing training programs, passing assessments, and demonstrating their proficiency in implementing Nasdaq’s solutions.

3. Adherence to Best Practices: Partners are expected to adhere to Nasdaq’s recommended best practices for implementing and utilizing their products. This includes following established guidelines, methodologies, and standards.

4. Quality Assurance: Partners are responsible for delivering high-quality implementations that meet or exceed client expectations. This includes ensuring the solutions are configured correctly, thoroughly tested, and properly documented.

5. Customer Satisfaction: Certified partners are obligated to prioritize customer satisfaction and provide excellent service. This includes effective communication, addressing client concerns, and delivering solutions that align with clients’ objectives.

6. Continuous Learning: Partners are required to stay current with Nasdaq’s product updates, releases, and advancements. This ongoing learning ensures that partners remain knowledgeable about the latest features and functionalities.

7. Communication, Reporting and Documentation: Certified partners are expected to maintain open lines of communication with Nasdaq. This involves sharing project updates, feedback, and collaborating on mutual goals. Documentation of project progress, milestones, and outcomes are required for accountability and transparency.

8. Ethical and Legal Compliance: Partners must operate ethically and in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards. This includes respecting intellectual property rights, data privacy regulations, and business ethics.

9. Promotion and Marketing: Partners are required to appropriately promote their status as an Nasdaq Certified Implementation Partner, using designated logos and branding in their marketing materials.

10. Client Confidentiality: Partners must respect client confidentiality and protect sensitive information obtained during the course of implementing Nasdaq’s solutions.

Nasdaq’s Value Assurance Services (VAS) provides Certified Implementation Partners (CIPs) with an additional level of support to plan and safeguard project deliveries to guarantee a successful implementation of Nasdaq’s products. It also ensures Nasdaq’s oversight in the project. The VAS package embodies a comprehensive suite of offerings meticulously designed to guarantee that customers attain the anticipated value and advantages from the AxiomSL or Calypso products they’ve procured.

The program provides the framework to accelerate the successful go-live of AxiomSL or Calypso implementations while successfully navigating key risks. A wide range of technology and business process expertise is available on demand, including best practices and risk mitigation services that are relevant from the beginning of the implementation and throughout the project lifecycle until go-live, as well as offering post-implementation support and continuous improvement of the solution.

Value Assurance Services provides a cost-effective and flexible way to purchase Nasdaq services. If you are expanding, innovating, or maintaining an AxiomSL or Calypso solution, Value Assurance Services allow you to budget for consulting services and advisory upfront with Flexible Credits that can then be used as needed. The complete list of service components are included in our On-Demand Service Component Catalog and are divided into four categories: Inquiry Service, Plan & Safeguard, Expand & Innovate and Optimize / Scale.

Nasdaq’s Customer Delivery Services is a fully integrated component of the broader Nasdaq offering, deeply aligned with AxiomSL and Calypso solutions, roadmaps, processes and internal teams. Every member of the Customer Delivery Services team is certified and enjoys direct access to our Research & Development and Support teams for swift issue resolution.

Nasdaq’s Customer Delivery Services has implemented over 2,000 projects and provide round the clock support with regional Customer Delivery Centers (CDC) to reduce overall cost-to-achieve (CTA) for our customers. Nasdaq’s Customer Delivery Services teams frequently work with Product Managers in the development of our products. This collaborative process allows them the unique opportunity to actively participate in co-building the solution, leading to a profound understanding of the intricacies of the product. Through this hands-on involvement, they gain comprehensive insights into the product’s architecture, functionalities, and design principles. This in-depth knowledge positions our Customer Delivery Services teams as experts who not only implement the solutions but also contribute to their evolution and refinement.

Our Nasdaq Certified Implementation Partners (CIPs) are an extension of these services. They often operate in regions where Nasdaq’s Customer Delivery Services don’t have a physical presence, so they provide local expertise. Clients sometimes have strong relationships with CIPs and prefer to engage them directly for solution implementation. In cases of high demand of Customer Delivery Services, we rely on CIPs to meet our commitments. Additionally, clients seeking specialized services like run-the-bank support, production assistance, L1 and L2 support, and strategic advisory services can benefit from select CIPs.

Clients can have confidence in accessing top-tier resources in the market whether engaging Nasdaq’s Customer Delivery Services or an Nasdaq CIP.