Some interesting news out of Redlands as Esri has announced their plans to commence the certification of Esri Technology users via the Esri Technical Certification Program – simply put, Earning a certification will mean an individual possesses a high level of technical expertise using Esri software – Esri Technical Certifications are awarded in different areas of expertise (Desktop, Developer, Enterprise) at both an Associate and Professional level. Additionally, they have also made available sub-categories for more specific certification like ArcGIS desktop developer, mobile developer, web application developer – all at associate (good working knowledge, familiarity etc…) and professional levels (advanced configuration skills).
No doubt some in the industry may be vocal about this effort as the topic of certification always seems to be a highly contentious one spurring loads of debate and discussion. OF note though, rather than industry-at-large certification (think GISP), this is vendor specific and aimed at the Esri technology user and professional, an excellent idea in my mind and I like the separate designations of Developer or enterprise user! Note, The Esri Technical Certification Program complements the geographic information system professional (GISP) certification available in the United States through the GIS Certification Institute, which certifies that GIS professionals have met minimum standards for ethical conduct and professional practice. Read more in the official announcement or see the Esri Certification Home at http://training.esri.com/certification/
