no... not that "MCP" :D

Hi there ppl, como cava??

I just recently found out that Microsoft has changed their certification syllabus... to cater for Visual Studio 2005 and SQL Server 2005 exams. This is a significant and huge change in policy for MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional). http://www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/newgen/

Well ... some may argue what's the point of getting these certs?? Some may also argue what the point in upgrading from current certs?? To me ... I strongly believe in certifications ... especially in the computing industry (GIS or otherwise). Salary and remuneration improves with certifications... trust me. Though some just mug and memorize for these certs, majority gain insightful experience and skills. So far the highest demand in certifications has always been Cisco, Oracle and Microsoft exams. Slowly but surely Linux and Java certifications are gaining popularity.

What has this got to do with us... GIS Professionals.. or GIS Developers?? Everything!!! GIS cannot run by itself... it needs a programming platform, software, database and network... among others. All these don't just fall from the sky... it requires new and changing technology to improve our profession... speed and quality of delivery. I believe we in the GIS profession should look seriously into these computing certs... and not fall behind. If not GIS will be an isolated component in the world of computing... and we in the GIS industry will slowly fade away..