Cloud Computing: Training vs. Certification
Simply put, Cloud Computing is everywhere these days. More and more institutions are not only adopting cloud technologies, they are also using them to promote products / services to individuals (cloud storage, music, gaming and email immediately spring to mind). However, the real “action” with regards to cloud computing use and development is currently situated firmly in the business, academic and governmental realms.
Over the last few years, great strides have been made which has allowed the aforementioned professional organizations to utilize cloud technologies in a number of ways. Arguably, the main reason why most businesses or organizations adopt cloud computing in the first place is because of its ability to trim associated energy consumption costs.
However, once these organizations see the inherent power and possibilities in “the cloud” they often begin exploring new potentially creative applications for the technology. This of course generates a demand for qualified personnel to maintain and manage cloud infrastructure(s) from within the IT community. After all, (when all is said and done) it is the duty of IT to service other organizations and help them to facilitate their long and short-term goals (by way of technology, of course).
This increased demand for IT personnel with cloud computing experience is both a growing problem in the IT industry as well as a glorious opportunity (for those who jump on it right now). As we all know, in the world of IT, those who possess increasing levels of certification and training are often the recipients of salary hikes and promotions; those with more knowledge and experience are “hotter commodities”. The real question is; what’s a better solution for your unique situation, cloud training or certification?
For most individuals, the immediate tendency might be to seek out the cheaper solution, which would be training (sans certification). It is important to note that most supplementary cloud education programs generally bundle certification in with the training aspect. If, for example, you are an IT manager that is in the process of trying to adapt your team’s knowledge base to include cloud technologies, a training program (for your subordinates) might be completely adequate. However, if you are an individual IT professional, cloud certification is definitely worth considering simply because of the prestige it adds to your qualifications and resume’.
Cloud training is merely another aspect of any certification course, but without the certification element attached, it might be difficult for employers to ascertain what you are capable of. In other words, certification is always preferable over training and fosters career strength and longevity. A good general “rule-of-thumb” might be, certification for careerists and training for in-house teams looking to adopt cloud computing technologies.
In truth, every single IT professional should be clamoring to attain some form of cloud computing certification (infrastructure or security). Not only are trending advocates predicting an increasing shift away from traditional IT models to the cloud, they’re also envisioning the average consumer utilizing cloud technologies in innumerable ways. Regardless of whether or not cloud computing actually replaces traditional IT, we must realize the amazing potential inherent in it (cloud computing).
Businesses are crafting new ways to carry out their operations and service their customers, thanks to cloud computing. Governmental organizations are using cloud computing to not only improve inter-communications but to trim their annual budgets. While cloud computing for the average consumer seems to be currently limited to entertainment, it is still more than apparent that cloud technologies not only work for them, but actually enhance or simplify their experience(s).
Seeking out cloud certification is not only an extremely prudent career decision it is also an excellent way to insulate oneself from the changing tides of the industry; which is more important than ever given the state of the global economy and markets. With the added security that cloud certification brings to a career you also have prestige. If you’re the kind of individual that has their sights set on a management position within your organization, cloud certification is another great step in that direction.
Even if you’re not motivated by climbing the corporate ladder, so to speak, the knowledge you will gain from a cloud certification program will mold you into a well-rounded IT professional who’s ready for the future. The bottom line is that the IT industry is changing; it is adopting cloud computing and integrating its technologies in every direction, only those who are complicit in this transformation will be truly valued as employees.
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