BCS Foundation Award - Understanding the problem and implementing the solution

Explore the processes involved, and the techniques and skills required, for an organisation to understand a problem before identifying, implementing and testing an effective solution.

Who is this for?

  • Digital leaders and professionals who may need to implement new solutions at an organisational level
  • Technology candidates looking to develop their knowledge and insight in ways of working to enable successful implementation

Entry requirements

There are no pre-requisites for entry to the exam.

What will I learn?

This award sits within the Business innovation area of the AI Foundation Pathway and gives you insight into the organisational processes that are vital for growth and continued business success.

You’ll develop your knowledge in:

  • defining the problem
  • finding the best solution
  • implementing the solution
  • testing, continual improvement and feedback

Download our latest syllabus (PDF)

This award contributes 4 credits towards the:

  • Foundation Certificate in AI (total credits required: 20)
  • Foundation Diploma in AI (total credits required: 36)

Other Business innovation awards in the IA Foundation Pathway include:

How do I take the exam?

Training and exam (recommended)

Take this course with one of our accredited training providers.

How long will it take?

Classroom courses normally last one day.

Where can I study?

The training provider will be able to advise you, but typical options include:

  • At an approved provider near you
  • At your computer via e-learning or web conference learning

How much does it cost?

Prices for courses vary depending on your chosen training provider, country and course format.

Find a provider

Exam only (self study)

Ideal if you’re self-motivated and already know something about AI and related areas, although we do recommend a training provider for this course.

How do I book an exam?

Call +44 (0)1793 417417 to book your exam.

How long will it take?

As a guide, the estimated total qualification time for this award is 40 hours based around 39.5 hours of independent learning (if at a training provider, we recommend 16 hours of contact time, plus 23.5 hours of independent learning) and a 30-minute summative assessment.

Where do I sit my exam?

If you’re studying for this qualification without a training provider you can sit this exam directly with BCS online.

How much does it cost?

UK price: £65 + £35 for exam remote proctor + VAT.
International prices may vary by region, please check international pricing via our Customer Service team.

Contact us on +44 (0)1793 417417

What's next?

Build on your foundation learning and achieve the Foundation Certificate in AI by studying one award from each of the four key awards areas. Study eight awards across the four areas and you’ll achieve the Foundation Diploma in AI. Why not look at…

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AI’s ability to learn, replicate and predict means it will have a considerable impact on society and our environment if we don’t approach it ethically, sustainably and with clear governance. This set of awards explores the impact of decision-making and is vital learning for any forward-thinking IT professional.

Understanding the role of ethics in the responsible use of AI

This qualification is not regulated by the following United Kingdom Regulators - Ofqual, Qualifications Wales, CCEA Regulation or SQA.