Microsoft Certified Master
Raise your hand if you are an MCSE. I got my first certificate back in the early 90's. We are all familiar with the traditional structure. Pass one test get an MCP. Pass all 7 and get your MCSE. Then the world changed. We added specialties. MCSE + Internet.
MCSE + Messaging. MCSE + Security. I understand the need to provide credibility and value to our certifications, but in my opinion the more options you have for certification the more the waters become muddied with uncertainty.
The world has revolved again. The Microsoft Certification team has restructured the certification program. I am delighted to say that they have simplified the structure and In my opinion added potential value to the individual certifications.
The structure is self explanatory. The technology series sort of maps to the MCP of yesteryear, while the professional series roughly maps to an MCSE. The Master series is the cool new option and has some great potential to really add some value to your Microsoft Certification. This is not a simple go and pass the test certification. Instead there is a 3 week required training course. Multiple written exams and Labs. This is a proctored certification requiring real experience, real machines, and real experts. If you think you've got what it takes to be a Master, then throw your paper certs in the trash and sign up to come and play with the big boys.
