To certify or not to certify?

Computerworld - New certifications continually emerge in the IT field. In fact, it sometimes appears that there is at least one for every available technology. As a result, many IT professionals wonder whether it's worthwhile to pursue a designation and, if so, which one could best aid their career advancement.

The answer varies. Each credential has a unique cost -- in terms of both money and effort -- and the effect of earning one may not always be immediately apparent. Here are some considerations when weighing your certification options.

Earning a certification can provide you with a competitive edge over other candidates, whether you're applying for a job with a new company or hoping to earn a promotion at your current firm. A certification offers employers proof that you're familiar with a particular technology or practice, giving them extra assurance that you can perform the duties of the job. Companies are particularly interested in individuals who have earned difficult-to-obtain credentials, such as the Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) or Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification, or a meaningful combination of designations.

Adding a certification to your list of professional accomplishments could also earn you more money. According to the Robert Half Technology 2006 Salary Guide, those with certain credentials can expect starting compensation thats 5% to 12% higher than average.

Pursuing a certification also demonstrates your drive and commitment to reach a professional goal. Plus, given the continually increasing pace of technological change, companies often favor IT professionals who never stop learning.

Despite their potential value, certifications are just one factor in an employer's decision to hire or promote someone and usually hold little weight when not paired with on-the-job experience. The reason is twofold. First, some certifications are relatively easy to acquire. Individuals who have consulted a study guide or taken a practice exam are sometimes able to obtain a credential despite a lack of in-depth knowledge of the subject. More important, companies today seek professionals with the ability to make bottom-line contributions and want to make sure the people they hire and retain have not only a working knowledge of a particular technology but also the ability to apply that knowledge in the workplace.

So, while a worker who possesses a Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDA) designation is highly marketable, one who has the same certification along with five years of working with Microsoft systems and a track record of completing projects on time and under budget is eminently more desirable to employers. In fact, 43% of CIOs polled by Robert Half Technology said applicants with industry-specific experience have an advantage in the job hunt. Only 15% cited certification in a relevant technology as the most valuable qualification.