Evan:

> Also, to earn an Microsoft Certified Solution Developer took me far more than 160 hours of study time. It ain't easy, especially the Fox tests. Take the Pepsi challenge before judging the process.

Whoopy Doopy. How long did it take you; 2 to 4 months? Did you know that iit takes more than 5 years and costs more than $5000 US to obtain a FSA designation in the Society of Actuaries? Did you know that most exams have a passing rate of well below 50% and the exams are only offered twice a year? Did you know that the vast majority of actuaries to be stop writing exams because studying becomes their sole pasttime? And the kicker: did you know that companies will pay you TENS OF THOUSAND of dollars more once you obtain a title because you can legally do some things that an non-certified individual can't?

Computer certifications are too easy to obtain and have no legal value. Holding a computer certification proves you have some knowledge about the product you are certified in but that level is way way too low IMO. Certification is a good thing if you are interviewing for a new job and have no or little experience with a tool (it shows a desire to learn) but it does not prove competency.

I won't bother studying for VFP, VB, or Java certifications until I know it will significantly affect my bottom line.

Daniel