COMPEL Glossary / stacking-rules
Stacking Rules
The formal rules governing how credentials combine and contribute to higher-level credentials in the lattice.
What this means in practice
Four rule types exist: micro-to-specialization (completing specific professional certifications reduces expert certification study hours), rtt-to-micro (recognized training program completions unlock professional certification assessments), external-to-CE (verified external credentials grant CE credits toward COMPEL certifications), and specialization-combo (specific combinations of specializations plus certifications unlock designations).
Context in the COMPEL framework
Stacking rules are the engine of the credential lattice architecture, enabling multiple pathways to reach the same destination credential. Rule types include professional-to-expert, external-to-professional, external-to-CE, expert-combo, and external training-to-professional.
Why it matters
Stacking rules ensure that every credential investment compounds toward larger goals. They prevent wasted effort by giving credit for prior learning and creating clear pathways from entry-level credentials to pinnacle designations. Without formal stacking rules, credential ecosystems become fragmented collections rather than integrated development architectures.
How COMPEL uses it
Stacking rules connect every credential type in the lattice: professional certifications stack toward expert certifications, external training completions stack toward professional certifications, all credentials contribute CE credits toward core certifications, and specific combinations of expert certifications plus certifications unlock the three designations.