If it weren't for a continuous flood of knowledgeable computer and network support workers, business in Great Britain (and around the world) could well be drawn to a standstill. Therefore, there's a huge requirement for people to support systems and users alike. Whilst we're all becoming massively more dependent on technology, we in turn inevitably become increasingly dependent on the well trained IT networkers, who keep the systems going.

OK, why is it better to gain commercial qualifications instead of the usual academic qualifications taught at schools, colleges or universities? With 3 and 4 year academic degree costs climbing ever higher, along with the IT sector's increasing awareness that vendor-based training is closer to the mark commercially, we have seen a large rise in Microsoft, CompTIA, CISCO and Adobe based training programmes that educate students for considerably less. Vendor training works by focusing on the particular skills that are needed (along with a proportionate degree of background knowledge,) rather than spending months and years on the background non-specific minutiae that degrees in computing are prone to get tied up in (because the syllabus is so wide).

Imagine if you were an employer - and you wanted someone who could provide a specific set of skills. What is easier: Wade your way through reams of different degrees and college qualifications from various applicants, trying to establish what they know and which workplace skills they have, or choose particular accreditations that perfectly fit your needs, and make your short-list from that. The interview is then more about the person and how they'll fit in - rather than on the depth of their technical knowledge.

Commencing from the viewpoint that we have to home-in on the area of most interest first and foremost, before we can even contemplate which career development program would meet that requirement, how do we know the right direction? How can we possibly grasp the tasks faced daily in an IT career when it's an alien environment to us? We normally don't know someone who performs the role either. Often, the key to unlocking this problem properly flows from a full discussion of several different topics:

* Your individual personality plus what interests you - the sort of work-centred jobs you love or hate.

* Are you driven to obtain training for a specific raison d'etre - i.e. is it your goal to work from home (being your own boss?)?

* Is salary further up on your wish list than anything else.

* Learning what typical Information technology roles and sectors are - including what sets them apart.

* How much time you will set aside for the training program.

For the majority of us, sifting through all these ideas requires a good chat with someone who has direct industry experience. And we're not only talking about the certifications - but also the commercial expectations and needs also.

Always expect the very latest Microsoft (or Cisco, CompTIA etc.) authorised exam preparation and simulation materials. Because most examining boards for IT are American, you'll need to be used to the correct phraseology. It's no use simply going through the right questions - they have to be in the same format as the actual exams. Mock exams can be very useful in helping you build your confidence - so when it comes to taking your actual exams, you don't get phased.

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