Through the years, it has to be said, 'Microsoft' have developed increasingly professional level certifications - which means that various other players in the market have been compelled to improve their offerings. So much so that the entire I.T. industry & particularly senior managers regard more advanced MS accreditations with great respect.

We'd hazard a guess that you're quite practically minded - the 'hands-on' personality type. Typically, the unfortunate chore of reading reference guides can be just about bared when essential, but you really wouldn't enjoy it. So look for on-screen interactive learning packages if book-based learning really isn't your style. Research over recent years has time and time again confirmed that becoming involved with our studies, to utilise all our senses, will more likely produce memories that are deeper and longer-lasting.

Modern training can now be done at home via easy-to-use DVD or CD ROM's. Instructor-led tutorials will mean you'll learn your subject through the demonstrations and explanations. You can then test yourself by using practice-lab's. It's very important to see examples of the study materials provided by any company that you may want to train through. You'll want to see that they include full motion videos of instructors demonstrating the topic with lab's to practice the skills in.

Avoiding training that is delivered purely online is generally a good idea. Physical CD or DVD ROM materials are preferable where obtainable, so you can use them wherever and whenever you want - it's not wise to be held hostage to your internet connection always being 'up' and available.

Whether you are seeking to achieve a beginner's knowledge of these systems & packages, or a more complete professional level comprehension to help you support other people, there are several accreditations which could help. To find out about 'Office' 2003 (XP) evaluate 'MOS' - Microsoft Office Specialist. For Office 2007 (Vista) skill-sets choose MCAS - Microsoft Certified Application Specialist. A level up from 'MOS' and 'MCAS' is 'MCDST' - 'Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician', which provides you with the skills to support others within an office.

There are various rather more specialised and higher qualification routes if you're looking to become a more senior I.T. skilled professional. In an attempt to upgrade their professional accreditation programs, Microsoft have just lately re-designed a number of their exams. 'Microsoft Certified IT Professional' (MCITP) & 'Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist' (MCTS) are being brought in, although several Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) examinations continue to be current. Typically, the 'MCTS' accreditations are taken on the way to a full MCITP program.

Potential trainees eager to kick off an IT career normally aren't sure which path to consider, or which sector to achieve their certification in. Because without any commercial background in Information Technology, how could any of us be expected to know what someone in a particular job does? Getting to the right resolution can only grow from a methodical investigation of many varying key points:

- Personality plays an important part - what gives you a 'kick', and what are the activities that you really dislike.

- What time-frame are you looking at for the training process?

- Have you thought about salary vs job satisfaction?

- When taking into account all that the IT industry covers, it's a requirement that you can absorb the differences.

- Our advice is to think deeply about the amount of time and effort you're going to give to the accreditation program.

To cut through the barrage of jargon, and uncover what'll really work for you, have an in-depth discussion with an advisor with years of experience; a person that will cover the commercial realities and truth while explaining all the qualifications.

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