Generic Certification
Not a bad idea.
Here’s something from AustralianIT that makes a lot of sense to me: vendor neutral certification. Okay, yes, I have a Novell certification that I’ve maintained since 1994, but I think the more open or wider certifications are better for the IT industry. Why? Because, in theory, they get us out of the pidgeon-hole thinking that our “pet” OS is the best. Ever heard the phrase, “If the only tool in your toolbox is a hammer, every problem looks like a nail”? Well, that applies to certifications, too. I have to admit that most of my solutions to problems are Novell-centric. I tend to focus on using one of their suite of products because that’s what I know. Lately, I’ve added a reversable screwdriver to my IT toolbox with Linux. And, yes, I have a Linux certification, too. But, that certification is fairly open in regards to what particular version of Linux is being used. Most of what was covered was applicable to virtually any version of Linux, and most versions of Unix.
So, yes, I think this is a good idea. I hope it catches on in Australia well enough that folks here in the States take it seriously. I think it’s the shot in the arm that IT certifications need.
I agree. Actually, this topic is one I feel quite militant about. I think that IT should use the example set by other Trades / Professions, through unionization. There should be designations, equal to Tradesman, Apprentice, Journeyman, and Master Journeyman. Each designation would represent hours “in the field” as well as variety of postions held. For example, No one who worked help desk for 8 years would qualify to become a Journeyman. That designation could only be held by someone who worked so many hours as a system builder, so many hours in help desk, so many hours as a field tech and so many hours as a jr admin and so many hours as an admin.
This wouldn’t make certification irrelevant either, it would enhance your designation. I would love to see that happen.
Comment by MightyKong — 3/22/2005 @ 12:51 pm
Hmm, like a trade union. I remember that folks at IBM thought about that not too long ago, but it never went anywhere. An IT union is an interesting idea. But, then, I’m from Chicago and my nickname as a kid was “Hoffa”, so, maybe it’s not a coincidence!
Comment by Network Geek — 3/22/2005 @ 10:10 pm