A couple of years ago I wrote an article for AS/400 Showcase about the IBM Certification process. I'm curious about any feedback from people who have taken the courses, or the test. Did you find it difficult? Would you it make a difference in your hiring decision. Do you believe there are benefits to the program? Just thought it would be an interesting discussion.

I have not taken the RPG specialist certification test but I can testify to the System Administrator exam. I have passed this exam twice and can say that it was very difficult. It truly tests your hands-on knowledge of system administrator duties. Other friends of mine who are very experienced system analysts took the test multiple times and did not receive a passing score. I would find it very hard to believe that someone could accidentally pass this exam without serious hands-on decision making experience. As for making a difference to be hired I think it does. My current employer looked very seriously at the applicants. My certifications played a key role in the final decision; however, if an employer doesn't understand the iSeries or how valuable the exam process is it probably won't mean much to them. <p>Scott