John,

Other than an opportunity to learn, I saw certification as a way to let my bosses, who know little to nothing about programming, where my skill level was.

My paycheck increased significantly this year - way beyond the usual raise.


>What would be interesting, at least from the VFP point of view, how the exams have helped. i.e., how many more doors have opened because of the MSCD. I contend that when you are doing VFP work, expertise being at a premium, having the MSCD or not having the MSCD will not be an issue. If you were trying to land VB or SQL Server, that may not be the case. In those cases, the MSCD may work like the LSAT and grades has a candidate weeding out device.
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>As for being something that a person does for his/her own enrichment, I don't argue with that. If I had to pick one track, SQL Server is one that has a lot of appeal.
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>>From the MCP News Flash:
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>>4. NEW CERTIFICATIONS FOR NETWORK ADMINISTRATORS AND DEVELOPERS
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>>In response to industry needs, Microsoft will introduce two new certifications this year. One certification will be for network administrators, technical support specialists and Web administrators who implement, manage, monitor, and troubleshoot the network and system environment for the Microsoft Windows® 2000 and Microsoft Windows® .NET Server operating systems. A new developer certification will be for individuals who create software components including complex macros, desktop and Web clients, and data access and business logic objects. Details about certification requirements and titles will be released during the fourth quarter of 2001. The certifications are expected to be available in early 2002. Find out more about the new certifications.
>>http://www.microsoft.com/trainingandservices/default.asp?PageID=mcp&PageCall=newcerts&SubSite=articles
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>>According to the link above, the good news for current MCP's and those considering certification on the current track, is that current exams could be combined with new exams for the upcoming certification titles. Whatever those will be.
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>>It is good to know that those of us with developer certs won't run into the abrupt fate the MCSE's did. I'm sure at some point exams will be retired but this gives us more flexibility for a smooth transition IMHO.