Computer Certification: Overview

Published April 29, 2004
By Anne Martinez

Page 1 of 5     1  2  3  4  5 

Since Novell first created the CNE program in 1989, certification of computer professionals has gone from an unknown factor, to a credential with the power to elevate one candidate above others, to a virtually essential component of the IT resume. But despite this widespread popularity, many people still have unanswered questions about choosing, earning, and benefiting from computer certifications. This article strives to provide the answers.

Why is Certification Useful?

• credentials skills an individual already holds
• serves as a blueprint for learning a new technology or furthering skills in a familiar technology
• acts as a way to increase individual marketability, and evidence suggests earning potential increases along with that.
• can be an ego boosting thing - a way to challenge oneself

• certification improves employee performance as they learn more while preparing for certification exams
• can be used as a marketing/credibility tool for the company
• in some cases for vendor-specific certifications certification can translate directly into increased reseller status
• it often serves as an incentive to employees - demonstrating that the company is interested in their continued professional development and willing to assist in attaining that. This can help reduce attrition.

The Difference Between Certificate and Certification

certificate: - signifies completion of a training program taken through a specified outlet. Testing may or may not (often not) be required. While this can be a valid and useful thing to have, it is often somewhat less meaningful than a certification. It does not assure particular knowledge or skill levels.

certification: - signifies attainment of a particular skill level/knowledge base. earned through passing exams - either standard question and answer or, arguably more meaningful but more difficult logistically to administer, hands-on lab exams. These exams are developed after a through examination of the subject domain, and the identification of objectives necessary for functional success in that domain.

Generally certifications do not require training attendance, and how the training or knowledge is achieved is an entirely separate issue. Often there will be training keyed directly to the certification objectives available, many times by the certification vendor themselves, but the key to achieving the credential is the demonstration of skill through passing proctored exams. Sometimes there are experience requirements as well.