2 Certification Study Guide Series: IBM Maximo Asset Management V7.1 1.1 IBM Professional Certification Program Having the right skills for the job is critical in the growing global marketplace. IBM Professional Certification, designed to validate skill and proficiency in the latest IBM solution and product technology, can help provide that competitive edge. The IBM Professional Certification Program Web site is available at: http:// www. ibm. com/ certify/ index. shtml The IBM Professional Certification Program offers a business solution for skilled technical professionals seeking to demonstrate their expertise to the world. In addition to demonstrating your skill and proficiency in the latest IBM technology and solutions, professional certification can help you excel at your job by giving you and your employer the confidence that your skills have been tested. You can deliver higher levels of service and technical expertise than non- certified employees and move on a faster career track. Professional certification puts your career in your control. The certification requirements are difficult but not overwhelming. Certification is a rigorous process that differentiates you from everyone else. The mission of the IBM Professional Certification Program is to: Provide a reliable, valid, and fair method of assessing skills and knowledge. Provide IBM with a method of building and validating the skills of individuals and organizations. Develop a loyal community of highly skilled certified professionals who recommend, sell, service, support, and use IBM products and solutions. The IBM Professional Certification Program has developed certification role names to guide you in your professional development. The certification role names include IBM Certified Specialist, IBM Certified Solutions/ Systems Expert, and IBM Certified Advanced Technical Expert for technical professionals who sell, service, and support IBM solutions. For technical professionals in application development, the certification roles include IBM Certified Developer Associate and IBM Certified Developer. An IBM Certified Instructor certifies the professional instructor. The IBM Professional Certification Program provides a structured program leading to an internationally recognized qualification. The program is designed for flexibility by enabling you to select your role, prepare for and take tests at your own pace, and, in some cases, select from a choice of elective tests best suited to your abilities and needs. Some roles also offer a shortcut by giving credit for a certification obtained in other industry certification programs.