An MCSE certification allows IT professionals to better approach Cloud transitions
Depending on who you are, the acronym ‘MCSE’ might mean two entirely different things. In other words, the MCSE certification of the 90’s is completely different from the one we have today (2012). So, before we explore the most recent version, let’s clear up some of the confusion…
The older program trained individuals as Microsoft Certified System Engineers; likewise, it dealt with operating systems and software that are largely obsolete (though some might still be in professional use today). This older version of the MCSE taught respondents to apply creative use of Microsoft technologies to create specific business solutions. Needless to say, it was a very broad certification which was beneficial for not just IT personnel, but also service professionals, analysts, consultants, software engineers, and others. There are a number of reasons why the program was discontinued, one of the most oft-referenced being that more hands-on training is required with regards to utilizing Microsoft’s newer products.
In April of this year (2012) the MCSE certification suite was officially re-branded; now those carrying the title of MCSE are known as Microsoft Certified Solutions Experts. Unlike its predecessor/namesake, this version of the MCSE is narrower in scope, but ultimately (or arguably) more powerful. Today’s MCSE is angled toward cloud computing; more specifically, their on-site abilities as well as use of Microsoft technologies to help organizations move into the cloud. Simply put, anyone who completes one of the specialized MCSE areas will be more than prepared not only in terms of qualifications, but also in terms of experience.
The MCSE program is currently comprised of 7 different areas of interest or specialization, they are:
MCSE – Server Infrastructure
MCSE – Desktop Infrastructure
MCSE – Private Cloud
MCSE – SQL Server 2012
MCSE – Messaging
MCSE – Communication
MCSE – SharePoint
Naturally, if you exhibit talent or experience in any of the aforementioned areas it’s probably best to look to become certified in that specialization. However, it should be noted that each division does deal directly with cloud-related concepts and technologies. Truly, this is a certification suite that’s aimed at producing competent professionals who are on the cutting edge. What’s more, the new MCSE program is really an excellent amalgamation of the best approaches, whether they are older or more recently discovered. Moreover, this new approach makes room for any new developments which might take place; you could hardly say that cloud computing is finished growing, and Microsoft is certainly taking future expansions into account with these latest MCSE offerings.
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So, what’s the point of an MCSE certification, you ask? Or rather, what ultimate purpose do these MCSE programs serve? Well, the bottom line is that the entire world and global business infrastructure is on pace to fully adopt cloud computing; and we’re not talking about a timeline including multiple decades. The truth is that we may very well see over 50% of organizations adopt some complete or partial form of cloud computing well within the next few years (if we haven’t already seen it, that is). Simply put, we live in the age of the cloud, and more and more IT professionals are tuning into this fact and taking the appropriate steps to protect their careers and/or dramatically improve them with cloud-specific training and/or certification. The point is, all of these organizations are going to need quality assistance when it comes to transitioning over to cloud computing infrastructures. Employers are already on the lookout for those with MCSE qualifications, who might be able to ensure a smoother and more sustainable experience with cloud computing.
On the technical side of things, MCSE certification programs will actually train professionals in various disciplines which are used to help companies transition to the cloud. In other words, showing IT workers how to handle specific cloud issues and problems is part of the imperative of the program itself. You’ve really got to hand it to Microsoft; they’re tackling the shortage of IT workers with cloud computing experience head on with these certifications while at the same time promoting some of their flagship products (like server 2012) which employ cloud technologies.
Who should pursue an MCSE certification? In reality, anyone who works in IT should at the very least consider an MCSE certification, but the program itself is more-or-less designed for those with experience in the field. Having said that however, it should be obvious that any younger, more inexperienced IT professional that successfully pursues and completes an MCSE program will undoubtedly be looked upon favorably by a great number of potential employers (hint, hint).
If you’re studying for your MCSE, check out this powerful assistance tool which is designed to increase your comprehension and help you pass your exam on your very first attempt…