The Certified Software Tester (CSTE) program was developed by leading software testing professionals as a means of recognizing software testers who demonstrate a predefined level of testing competency. The CSTE program is directed by an independent Certification Board and administered by the Quality Assurance Institute (QAI). The program was developed to provide value to the profession, the individual, the employer, and co-workers. The CSTE certification entails an aggressive educational program that tests the level of competence in the principles and practices of testing and control in the Information Technology (IT) profession. These principles and practices are defined by the Certification Board as the Common Body of Knowledge (CBOK). The Certification Board will periodically update the CBOK to reflect changing software testing and control, as well as changes in computer technology. These updates should occur approximately every three years.