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IBM Computer Certifications: Courses, Training, And IT Certifications

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Published: March 23, 2007

IIBM computer certifications are considered by IBM to be “both a journey and a destination.” IT certifications, like those offered by IBM, expand knowledge and provide a way for IT professionals to exhibit their knowledge in the workplace and continually grow their skill set. IBM computer certifications help IT professionals to achieve success in the ever-evolving industry of technology.

IBM computer certifications are broken into three categories: software, hardware, and “other.” IBM computer certifications for software consist of Information Management, Lotus, Rational, Tivoli, WebSphere, and a few others. The hardware group of IBM computer certifications focus on System p, I, x, and z, as well as System Storage and Total Storage. The “other” IBM computer certifications are based on Retail Store Solutions, Advanced Manufacturing Science, Infrastructure Systems Architects, and Innovation enabled by On Demand Business.

All IBM computer certifications are extremely specialized, even within their specific categories. For instance, to earn a Lotus Certification, one exam or a series of exams will need to be passed depending on the certification program chosen. There are different programs offered by Lotus Software: Associate, Professional and Advanced Professional, and Instructor. One constant within all of the different IBM computer certifications is that most certification programs work on a ladder scale of levels like Lotus.

Associate level is the first certification, and any subsequent IBM computer certifications would require completion of the previous certifications to advance. For example, IBM computer certifications in the Advanced Professional certification would require completion of both an Associate and Professional certification.

IBM suggests using their “Certifications by Product” web page to more easily choose a certification from among the many IBM computer certifications. Once a product category is chosen, candidates can better understand which specific certification is needed based on skill level and previous certifications. All IBM computer certifications have their prerequisites listed on IBM's website.

IBM computer certification tests range from $90-150. Although this seems reasonable, it's important for candidates to understand that the majority of costs are usually associated with the preparation for the tests. To become an IBM Certified Associate Developer – Lotus Notes and Domino 7, candidates must pass the exam that is specific to the certification, Notes Domino 7 Application Development Foundation Skills.

IBM's website offers objectives for all certification tests to help candidates study for the tests. Sample Tests give insight to the layout of the tests and the types of questions that might be asked. The Assessment Tests for IBM computer certifications simulate the actual exam and help determine if a test taker is ready to take the certification exam. All of this information can be found on IBM's Test Information Page and is free of charge. Other preparation materials can be found online at Test King and Troytec, and can range from $70-200.

Training and preparation courses for IBM computer certifications are available in many different formats. Courses are available online to help prepare for tests, but are not mandatory for successful certification unless noted. For example, the IBM Certified Associate Developer – Lotus Notes and Domino 7 certification, there is not any other requirement other than reading over the exam guide and passing the exam. However, Fundamentals of IBM Lotus Domino 7 Application Development is a four-day class instructor led class with hands-on experience that is listed and recommended to help prepare for the test.

The preparation courses listed on IBM's site are from outside vendors and IBM's own technical training program. Preparation courses can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. IBM's Test Information Page has every certification test listed with a test preparation section for each, listing courses, books, and other resources for study. Each of the listings are certification specific and focus on the educational and experience requirements needed to pass a specific exam.


After all of the preparation, courses, training, sample and assessment tests, and studying, remember that this experience is supposed to be both a “journey and destination,” meaning that every part of the process of receiving IBM computer certifications is not only important, but also building block to the next level. To succeed in the information technology industry, remember that one must be willing to continually step up to the next level.


Sources:
Professional Certification Program from IBM. IBM. 7 Feb. 2007. http://www-03.ibm.com/certify/index.shtml.
Test King. 7 Feb. 2007. http://www.testking.com.
Troytec. 7 Feb. 2007. http://www.troytec.com.
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