Re: cert discussion

[pomeranz@netcom.com (Hal Pomeranz)]

} I think most of the discussion here has missed what I consider the important
} point.  If we (SAGE as a group) do not provide a useful, informative,
} certification program, one *will* be provided for us, and it may not be
} one that we want.

I'm sorry but I disagree.  This statement has appeared on this list
nearly as many times as I've seen predictions on the death of Unix,
but neither has come to pass.

There seems to be an implicit assumption that HR departments are
ready to run riot and elevate the next certification messiah that
comes along.  If you really believe this, then let me provide my own
"modest proposal".

Rather than pursuing the "quick fix" solution of rubber-stamping
individuals as acceptable merely because they can pass a test, SAGE
could pursue a course of eduction.  Not for practicing Systems
Administrators, but rather for recruiters, HR departments, and
employers.  Help them understand why any standardized testing members
of our profession is hard.  Give them other tools to help them find
the right people.  This is something that would make SAGE look
auspicious.

IMHO, the SAGE Job Descriptions was a great step in this direction.
Every HR person I've shown it to has been amazingly greatful for this
resource.  And there's no tests in there, just information.

Hal Pomeranz, Principal        Deer Run Associates        hal@deer-run.com
      Network Connectivity and Security, Systems Management, Training