Introducing the Microsoft SQL Server 2005

C e r t i f i C at i o n s

A N E W G E N E R AT I O N I N C E R T I F I C AT I O N

Focused on real-world business needsMicrosoft® SQL Server 2005 certification represents a new generation of Microsoft certifications. Designed to support business

productivity by providing a more targeted validation of staff skills, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 certifications are also more cost-

effective for organizations and individuals seeking to enhance their staff qualifications in the IT industry.

Certification paths tailored to specific job roles and technologiesMicrosoft SQL Server 2005 certification leads an evolution in the certification framework by emphasizing both the primary

technology skill set and the job role of the individual. By focusing on either core technical or professional skills, individuals

can work towards a certification that meets their needs. SQL Server 2005 certification is defined by two credentials, the

Technology Specialist and the IT Professional, and further refined by four distinct certifications:

Technology Specialists implement and maintain databases utilizing specific instructions and specifications. They have thorough knowledge of the product and know how to use the tools, Transact-SQL language, and navigate the UI. Technology Specialists are typically pursuing a career as a Database Administrator, Database Developer, or Business Intelligence Developer, or are generalists that may have primary contact with SQL Server but do not work with SQL Server on a daily basis.

Database Administrators install or configure SQL Server, manage or maintain databases or multidimensional databases, user accounts, database availability, recovery, or reporting. They can design or implement security or server automation and monitor and troubleshoot SQL Server activity. Database Administrators are typically employed by mid-size to large organizations.

Database Developers design and implement relational database models (logical and physical) and database storage objects. They program the server using user-defined functions, triggers, stored procedures, Transact-SQL, or the CLR. They retrieve or modify data using SQL queries or tune and optimize queries. Database Developers are typically employed by mid-size to large organizations.

T E C H N O LO G Y S P E C I A L I S T C E RT I F I C AT I O N S

I T P RO F E S S I O N A L C E RT I F I C AT I O N S

Business Intelligence Developers design and implement multidimensional database models (logical and physical), datamarts, data warehousing, data transforms, data analysis, and reporting solutions. This includes programming and customizing the server using MDX, customer transforms, and custom reporting solutions. Business Intelligence Developers are typically employed by mid-size to large organizations.

New generation of Microsoft certificationsMicrosoft SQL Server 2005 certifications are based on a new certification framework that takes into account extensive

customer research and encompasses a number of benefits for both individuals and organizations:

• Shorter certification paths The new generation certifications are more cost-effective by providing shorter certification paths targeted to specific job roles. This speeds up the acquisition of relevant credentials for individuals looking to prove their expertise and for organizations looking to ensure the right skills for their projects.

• Distinct certifications offer greater relevancy Individuals can further refine their knowledge and skills by working toward one of four distinct Microsoft SQL Server 2005 certifications.

• Targeted credentials provide more differentiation Individuals can choose a credential path as either technology or profession-focused in order to best serve their individual and organizational needs. Candidates are able to showcase the specific skills they have demonstrated directly in their certification logo.

• Easier to understand qualifications Hiring managers can narrow their focus on candidates that meet specific job criteria. The new approach allows for less credentials and logos, while still offering the level of distinction needed to use certification as a recruiting tool.

M I C R O S O F T S Q L S E R V E R 2 0 0 5

SQL Server 2005

Business Intelligence Developer

Database Developer

Database Administrator

T E C H N O LO G Y S E R I E S

Validates core technology and/or product skills, such as how-to or implementation skills.

Core Technical SkillsProven skills on Microsoft technologies

AT T R I B U T E S :

Focus on single Technology

Does not include any job role skills

1-3 exams

Certification expires when product support expires

P R O F E S S I O N A L S E R I E S

Validates specific job role skills outside of core technology, such as operational processes and procedures, and analyzing business problems.

Professional SkillsProven ability to perform on the job

AT T R I B U T E S :

Focus on single job role

Pre-requisite Technology Specialist credential

May incorporate environment

1-3 exams

Recertification required every 2-3 years

A R C H I T E C T S E R I E S

Validates the skills required to successfully impact business IT. These include: technical breadth, technical depth, communication, strategy, organizational politics, process, and leadership

Business IT SkillsProven ability to deliver business solutions

AT T R I B U T E S :

Rigorous entry process

Work closely with mentor

Focus on either Infrastructure or Solutions

Culminates in oral review board

n e W C e r t i f i C at i o n f r a M e W o r K

for the latest updates on Microsoft Certification, go to:

www.microsoft.com/mcp

mPart No. 098-103386© 2005 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. Microsoft is a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

Q. What are the requirements for the Microsoft SQL Server 2005 certification?

A. Specific requirements will be announced in late September or early October 2005.

Q. Will upgrade paths for Microsoft SQL Server 2005 be available?A. We will have upgrade options available to those

currently certified.

Q. What changes are being made to other certifications? A. The new framework is being launched with the Microsoft

SQL Server 2005, Visual Studio 2005, and Microsoft Certified Architect Program credentials. The new Longhorn Server certifications will be built in the new framework with straightforward upgrade paths for those currently certified.

Q. Should I stop on my current credential path?A. No, continue pursuing your current credential. It is still the

most relevant credential in the market and an upgrade option towards the next credential will be available.

Q. Why should I get my staff certified?A. Certification provides increased value to your organization

– organizations with 25% or more of their staff certified:

• Deploy projects on time within budget more often

• Rely less on external support

• Have less downtime

• Have higher end user satisfaction with their IT staff

Questions and Answers