We're often asked why academic qualifications are less in demand than the more commercial certifications? Industry now acknowledges that for an understanding of the relevant skills, certified accreditation from companies such as Adobe, Microsoft, CISCO and CompTIA most often has much more specialised relevance - for much less time and money. The training is effectively done by focusing on the actual skills required (alongside an appropriate level of background knowledge,) instead of going into the heightened depths of background 'extras' that academic courses can get bogged down in (because the syllabus is so wide).

As long as an employer knows what they're looking for, then all they have to do is advertise for the particular skill-set required. Vendor-based syllabuses are set to meet an exact requirement and aren't allowed to deviate (in the way that degree courses can).

Charging for exams with the course fee and offering an 'Exam Guarantee' is common for a number of training colleges. Consider the facts:

In this day and age, we are a little bit more aware of sales ploys - and most of us grasp that we're actually paying for it (it isn't free or out of the goodness of their hearts!) It's well known in the industry that when students fund each examination, when they're ready to take them and not before, the chances are they're going to qualify each time - because they're aware of their investment in themselves and their application will be greater.

Sit the exam somewhere local and find the best exam deal or offer available then. Huge profits are netted by many training colleges who get money for exam fees in advance. Many students don't take them for one reason or another and so they pocket the rest. Believe it or not, there are training companies who actually bank on it - as that's how they make a lot of their profit. In addition to this, you should consider what an 'exam guarantee' really means. The majority of organisations will not pay for re-takes until you can prove to them you're ready to pass.

VUE and Prometric examinations are around 112 pounds in this country. What's the point of paying huge charges for 'Exam Guarantees' (usually wrapped up in the course package price) - when good quality study materials, the proper support and consistent and systematic learning, coupled with quality exam simulation software is what will really see you through.

Some training providers will only provide basic 9am till 6pm support (maybe a little earlier or later on certain days); not many go late into the evening (after 8-9pm) or cover weekends properly. Many only provide email support (too slow), and so-called telephone support is normally just routed to a call-centre which will make some notes and then email an advisor - who will call back over the next day or so (assuming you're there), at a suitable time to them. This is not a lot of use if you're stuck and can't continue and have a one hour time-slot in which to study.

As long as you look hard, you will find the very best companies that give students direct-access support at all times - no matter what time of day it is. Seek out a company that offers this level of study support. As only true live 24x7 support delivers what is required.

If you'd enjoy being a good user to assist you with your job, or study for a professional career in a supporting role, there are a number of training packages to help you get there. To find out about Office 2003 ('XP') check out MOS - 'Microsoft Office Specialist'. For 'Office' 2007 (Vista) skillsets opt for MCAS - Microsoft Certified Application Specialist. The 'MCDST' (Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician) takes this on to the next level, which means you're certified to support others.

There are various rather more specialist and advanced certification routes if you are aiming to become a senior IT professional level. The examination structure at MS has fairly recently experienced a significant change. Many career training tracks still lead to MCP qualifications, however the trend is steadily going towards 'MCITP' & 'MCTS' programs (Microsoft Certified IT Professional and 'Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist' respectively). 'MCTS' learning packages are generally achieved as building blocks to the 'MCITP'.

Students who consider this area of study are often very practical, and won't enjoy sitting at a desk in class, and slogging through piles of books. If you're thinking this sounds like you, go for more modern interactive training, with on-screen demonstrations and labs. Studies have constantly confirmed that becoming involved with our studies, to utilise all our senses, will more likely produce memories that are deeper and longer-lasting.

Study programs now come via DVD-ROM discs, where everything is taught on your PC. Video streaming means you can sit back and watch the teachers showing you precisely how something is done, with some practice time to follow - in an interactive lab. You'll definitely want a demonstration of the study materials from any training college. The package should contain expert-led demonstrations, slideshows and lab's for you to practice your skills in.

It's usually bad advice to go for purely on-line training. Because of the variable quality and reliability of the ISP (internet service provider) market, it makes sense to have physical media such as CD or DVD ROM's.

Commercial Interactive Courses In CompTIA Networking Support >>