Technical Certifications: Is the Value Really There?

Michael R. Wood is a Business Process Improvement & IT Strategist Independent Consultant. He is creator of the business process-improvement methodology called HELIX and founder of The Natural Intelligence Group, a strategy, process improvement and technology consulting company. He is also a CPA, has served as an Adjunct Professor in Pepperdine's Management MBA program, an Associate Professor at California Lutheran University, and on the boards of numerous professional organizations. Mr. Wood is a sought after presenter of HELIX workshops and seminars in both the U.S. and Europe.

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Having some form of proof that testifies to a level of education or experience achieved has been part of modern cultures forever. Diplomas provide assurance that a person has completed a regimen of formal education. Licenses certify that a person is approved to engage in or practice specific activities such as medicine, law and accounting. Obtaining a professional license usually requires a relevant degree from an accredited educational institution; the passing of a test governed by a recognized professional society or governmental entity; work experience (two to four years) in the field of endeavor, attested to by a licensed professional in the field.

In addition, such licenses require some form of continuing education in order to keep them in force. However, one of the most distinctive aspects of a professional license is that engaging in the profession without one can earn you a fine--and even jail time.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the world of technical certifications. How are they different from professional licenses? What value do they provide the holder? Can they help someone get a job and earn more money? Are some certifications more prestigious than others? Do some hold the same stature as professional licenses?

These questions and more have been bantered about for years. Perhaps this is because, on many levels, the process needed to secure a …

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