Google has announced it is to introduce a raft of changes which includes overhauling the current Google Advertising Professionals programme.
The company has said it intends to bring in a more rigorous certification in AdWords proficiency, aimed at companies which manage AdWords accounts and paid search (PPC) campaigns on behalf of clients.
The firm says it will include a “more up-to-date, comprehensive, strategy-focused training and certification on the latest tools and best practices for managing AdWords accounts”.
The programme will include new training materials, more challenging certification exams, an advanced exam option, as well as redesigned branding.
Other changes being brought in include a searchable directory to help advertisers find suitable Google-certified companies, and a preferred pricing system which will give qualified Google AdWords firms who manage client AdWords accounts free use of the AdWords API, based on managed client spend.
Penry Price, vice president of global agency development, said: “We’re looking forward to receiving feedback on all of these initiatives and to continuing to improve our partnership with agencies.”