The way a programme is physically sent to you isn't always given the appropriate level of importance. How many parts is the training broken down into? And in what sequence and at what speed is it delivered? Delivery by courier of each element one stage at a time, as you pass each exam is the usual method of releasing your program. Of course, this sounds sensible, but you should take these factors into account: What if for some reason you don't get to the end of every single exam? And what if the order provided doesn't meet your requirements? Because of nothing that's your fault, you may go a little slower and not receive all the modules you've paid for.

For maximum flexibility and safety, it's normal for most trainees to request that all their modules (now paid for) are couriered out in one package, all at the beginning. It's then your own choice at what speed and in which order you'd like to take your exams.

Incorporating examination fees up-front then giving it 'Exam Guarantee' status is a common method with many companies. But let's examine why they really do it:

They've allowed costings for it by some means. One thing's for sure - it isn't free - it's just been rolled into the price of the whole package. For those who want to pass first time, then you should fund each exam as you take it, focus on it intently and apply yourself as required.

Do your exams somewhere local and hold on to your money and pay for the exam when you take it. Paying in advance for exams (and interest charges if you're borrowing money) is madness. Don't line companies bank accounts with extra money of yours just to give them a good cash-flow! There are those who hope that you will never make it to exams - so they don't need to pay for them. Re-takes of any failed exams via companies who offer an 'Exam Guarantee' are always heavily controlled. You will be required to do mock exams so you can prove to them you have a good chance of passing.

With average Prometric and VUE tests costing in the region of 112 pounds in this country, it makes sense to pay as you go. It's not in the student's interests to fork out hundreds or thousands of pounds for exams when enrolling on a course. A commitment to studying and the use of authorised exam preparation tools are actually the key to your success.

If you want to follow a career in database development, the 'MCITP' DB-Developer qualification is suitable. Without totally extending in to Database programming, this teaches more on the original rationale & set up of Databases. You might want to look into the Programming section of this website if your interest lies in that area of Databases. In general, you'll find there's a lot greater concentration from both employers and students on the Administration of databases. Then again if you do want to be a Developer, our tip would be to add the DB Developer certification into a comprehensive set of programming training. As each year moves on, it's best to also consider taking the MCTS accreditation in 'SQL' Server 2008.

We're regularly asked to explain why traditional degrees are being overtaken by more commercial certificates? Industry is of the opinion that for mastery of skill sets for commercial use, proper accreditation from companies such as Microsoft, CompTIA, CISCO and Adobe is far more effective and specialised - for considerably less. This is done by focusing on the particular skills that are needed (alongside a proportionate degree of background knowledge,) rather than covering masses of the background detail and 'fluff' that degrees in computing can often find themselves doing - to pad out the syllabus.

When an employer is aware what they're looking for, then they simply need to advertise for the exact skill-set required to meet that need. Vendor-based syllabuses are set to exacting standards and can't change from one establishment to the next (in the way that degree courses can).

A characteristic profile of a Database Administrator or Developer is somebody who is extremely exact, is well-disciplined & systematic, and can work efficiently both by themselves or as a member of a smallish team. They quite often talk with senior or higher managers, & so have to have impressive communication skills. Database management is a very important occupation, as Security needs more and more vigilance within this area of work. Commercial discretion will be vital, and a substantial amount of trust & integrity will be asked for by the management. Many people who've recently been employed in business 'processing' or accounting positions normally do very well in Database management. A lot of 'DBAs' achieve promotions to higher office because they intrinsically expand their business-management skill-sets.

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