• Database technology is crucial in multiple applications and computing tasks, and certifications help demonstrate job readiness and core competencies. 
• Before pursuing a database platform certification, you should have a solid background in relational database management systems and the SQL language. 
• Valuable certifications are typically tied to specific technology companies and their platforms, such as IBM, Microsoft, Oracle and SAP.
• This article is for IT professionals considering database certifications to further their careers. 

While database platforms have come and gone through the decades, database technology is still critical for multiple applications and computing tasks. IT professionals often seek database certifications to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise as they navigate their career paths and pursue professional growth. 

While database certifications may not be as bleeding edge as Google cloud certifications, cybersecurity certifications, storage certifications or digital forensics certifications, database professionals at all levels possess in-demand career skills — and a plethora of database-related jobs are waiting to be filled.

We’ll look at some of the most in-demand certifications for database administrators, database developers and anyone else who works with databases.

What to know about database roles and certifications

To get a better grasp of available database certifications, it’s helpful to group these certs around job responsibilities. This reflects the maturity of database technology and its integration into most aspects of commercial, scientific and academic computing. As you read about the various database certification programs, keep these job roles in mind: 

• Database administrator (DBA). A DBA is responsible for installing, configuring and maintaining a database management system (DBMS). The job is often tied to a specific platform, such as Oracle, MySQL, DB2 or SQL Server.
• Database developer. A database developer works with generic and proprietary application programming interfaces (APIs) to build applications that interact with a DBMS. Like DBA roles, database developer positions are also often platform-specific.
• Database designer or database architect. A database designer or architect researches data requirements for specific applications or users and designs database structures and application capabilities to match.
• Data analyst or data scientist. A data analyst or scientist is responsible for analyzing data from multiple disparate sources to discover previously hidden insights, determine the meaning behind data, and make business-specific recommendations.
• Data mining or business intelligence (BI) specialist. A data mining or BI specialist focuses on dissecting, analyzing and reporting important data streams, such as customer, supply chain and transaction data and histories.
• Data warehousing specialist. A data warehousing specialist assembles and analyzes data from multiple operational systems (such as orders, transactions, supply chain information and customer data) to establish data history, analyze trends, generate reports and forecasts, and support general ad hoc queries. 

These database job roles highlight two critical issues to consider if you want to be a database professional:

1. You need a solid general background. First, a background in relational database management systems, including an understanding of Structured Query Language (SQL), is a fundamental prerequisite for database professionals of all stripes. 
2. There’s a focus on proprietary technologies. Second, although various efforts to standardize database technology exist, much of the whiz-bang capability that databases and database applications deliver comes from proprietary, vendor-specific technologies. Serious, heavy-duty database skills and knowledge are tied to specific platforms, including various Oracle products (such as the open-source MySQL environment and Oracle itself,) Microsoft SQL Server and IBM DB2. Most of these certifications relate directly to those enormously popular platforms. 

Did you know? NoSQL databases — called “not only SQL” or “non-relational” databases — are increasingly used in big data applications associated with some of the best big data certifications for data scientists, data mining and warehousing, and business intelligence.

Best database certifications

Here are details on our five best database certification picks for 2022.

1. IBM Certified Database Administrator — DB2 12

IBM is one of the leaders in the worldwide database market by any objective measure. The company’s database portfolio includes industry-standard DB2, as well as the following:

• IBM Compose
• Information Management System (IMS)
• Informix
• Cloudant
• IBM Open Platform with Apache Hadoop

IBM also has a long-standing and well-populated IT certification program that has been around for more than 30 years and encompasses hundreds of individual credentials. 

After redesigning its certification programs and categories, IBM now has a primary data-centric certification category called IBM Data and AI. It includes a range of database credentials: 

• Database Associate
• Database Administrator
• System Administrator
• Application Developer 

IBM’s is a big and complex certification space, but one where particular platform allegiances are likely to guide readers toward the handful of items most relevant to their interests and needs. 

Database professionals who support DB2 (or aspire to) on IBM’s z/OS should check out the IBM Associate Certified DBA — Db2 12 certification. It’s an entry-level test that addresses routine planning, working with SQL and XML, security, operations, data concurrency, application design, and concepts around database objects.

This certification requires candidates to pass one exam. Pre-exam training and familiarity with concepts, or hands-on experience, are recommended but not required. 

IBM Certified Database Administrator — DB2 facts and figures

Did you know? IBM’s certification offerings are among the best system administrator certifications IT professionals can achieve.

2. Microsoft Azure

Microsoft Azure offers a broad range of tools and add-ons for business intelligence. Azure is a cloud computing platform for application management and Microsoft-managed data centers. Microsoft certifications include various Azure offerings based on job role and experience level.

Microsoft’s certification program is role-centric, centered on the skills you need to succeed in specific technology jobs. Because Azure has such a broad scope, Azure certifications span multiple job roles. However, specific certifications exist for the following positions:

• Data Analysts
• Data Engineers
• Data Scientists
• Database Administrators 

There are also certifications for learners at different experience levels. 

For those looking to take their Azure knowledge to the next level, the Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals certification is the perfect place to start. This certification is for beginner database administrators interested in using Azure and mastering data in the cloud. It offers foundational knowledge of core concepts while reinforcing concepts for later use in other Azure role-based certifications, such as those listed below: 

• Azure Database Administrator Associate
• Azure Data Engineer Associate
• Data Analyst Associate 

Azure Data Fundamentals certification facts and figures

3. Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator 

Oracle runs its certifications under the auspices of Oracle University. The Oracle Database Certifications page lists separate tracks depending on job role and product. MySQL is perhaps the leading open-source relational database management system (RDBMS). Since acquiring Sun Microsystems in 2010 (which had previously acquired MySQL AB), Oracle has rolled out a paid version of MySQL and developed certifications to support the product. 

If you’re interested in pursuing an Oracle MySQL certification, you can choose between MySQL Database Administration and MySQL Developer. 

The Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator (OCP) credential recognizes professionals who can accomplish the following tasks:

• Install, optimize and monitor MySQL Server.
• Configure replication.
• Apply security.
• Schedule and validate database backups. 

The certification requires candidates to pass a single test (the same test can be taken to upgrade a prior certification). Oracle recommends training and on-the-job experience before taking the exam.

Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator facts and figures

Did you know? According to Oracle, approximately 1.8 million Oracle Certified professionals globally hold certifications to advance their networking careers and professions to validate their IT expertise. 

4. Oracle Database SQL Certified Associate Certification

For individuals interested in working in the Oracle environment who have the necessary experience to become a database administrator, Oracle’s Database SQL Certified Associate Certification is another top Oracle certification and an excellent starting point. This test encompasses an understanding of fundamental SQL concepts that individuals must grasp for database projects. 

By earning the certification, individuals demonstrate that they have a range of knowledge in core SQL concepts:

• Familiarity with queries, data modeling, and normalization
• Strong base understanding of the underlying SQL language
• An ability to create and manipulate Oracle Database tables 

This certification also requires candidates to pass a single exam. While Oracle does not specify any prerequisites, the company does state candidates should have familiarity working with the command line. 

Oracle Database SQL Certified Associate Certification facts and figures

5. SAP HANA: SAP Certified Technology Associate — SAP HANA 2.0 SPS05

SAP SE has an extensive portfolio of business applications and analytics software, including cloud infrastructure, applications and storage. The SAP HANA platform’s foundation is an enterprise-grade relational database management system that can be run as an appliance on-premises or in the cloud. The cloud platform lets customers build and run applications and services based on SAP HANA. 

SAP offers a comprehensive certification program built to support its various platforms and products. We’re featuring the SAP Certified Technology Associate — SAP HANA cert because it aligns closely with other certifications we’ve highlighted and is in high demand among employers, according to job board surveys. 

This certification ensures database professionals can install, manage, monitor, migrate and troubleshoot SAP HANA systems. It covers the following skills:

• Managing users and authorizations
• Applying security
• Ensuring high availability 
• Effective disaster-recovery techniques 

SAP recommends that certification candidates get hands-on practice through formal training or on-the-job experience before attempting this exam. The SAP Learning Hub is a subscription service that gives certification candidates access to a library of learning materials, including e-learning courses and course handbooks. 

The annual subscription rate for individual users on the Professional certification track is $2,760. This online training program is designed for those who run, support, or implement SAP software solutions. Though this may seem like a steep price for online training, you will likely be able to pass any SAP certification exams you put your mind to by leveraging all the learning resources available to SAP Learning Hub Professional subscribers. 

Typically, SAP certifications achieved on one of the two most exact SAP solutions are considered current and valid. SAP contacts professionals whose certifications are nearing end-of-life status and provides information on maintaining their credentials.

SAP Certified Technology Associate facts and figures

Tip: To broaden your skill set, consider pursuing the best sales certifications to better sell and implement various IT solutions, including databases.

Beyond the top 5 database certifications

Additional database certification programs can further the careers of IT professionals who work with database management systems. 

While most colleges with computer science programs offer database tracks at the undergraduate, master and Ph.D. levels, well-known vendor-neutral database certifications exist, including the following: 

• ICCP certifications. The Institute for the Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP) offers its unique Certified Data Professional and Certified Data Scientist credentials. Learn more about ICCP certifications from the ICCP website.
• Enterprise DB certifications. EnterpriseDB administers a small but effective certification program with two primary certs: the EDB Certified Associate and the EDB Certified Professional. 

These are some additional certifications: 

These credentials represent opportunities for database professionals to expand their skill sets — and salaries. However, such niches in the database certification arena are generally only worth pursuing if you already work with these platforms or plan to work for an organization that uses them.

Key takeaway: Pursuing additional database certifications can be helpful for professional development if you already work with these platforms or plan to work with them in the future. 

Job board search results

Before pursuing certifications, consider their popularity with employers to gain a helpful perspective on current database certification demand. Here’s a job board snapshot to give you an idea of what’s trending.

If the sheer number of available database-related positions isn’t enough motivation to pursue a certification, consider average salaries for database administrators. SimplyHired reports $91,949 as the national average in the U.S., ranging from $64,171 to over $131,753. Glassdoor’s reported average is somewhat lower at $84,161, with a top rung for experienced senior DBAs right around $134,000.

Choosing the right certification

Choosing the best IT certifications to enhance your skills and boost your career can be overwhelming, especially as many available certifications are for proprietary technologies. While picking a database certification can feel like locking yourself into a single technology family, it is worth remembering that many database skills are transferable. Additionally, pursuing any certification shows your willingness to learn and demonstrates competence to current and future employers. 

Ultimately, choosing which certification to pursue depends on the technologies you use at work or would like to use at a future employer.

Jeremy Bender contributed to the reporting and writing in this article. 

• For many IT professional aspirants, technical support or help-desk positions remain a traditional entry point into the field. 
• Help-desk certifications tend to focus on technical support skills and specific vendors or overarching help-desk functions and job roles. 
• Valuable certifications include proprietary certs from companies like Apple and Microsoft and broader learning-path certifications from companies like CompTIA and ITIL. 
• This article is for IT professionals interested in pursuing help-desk certifications to further their careers.

Technical support and help-desk positions are traditional entry points for IT professionals navigating their career paths. Earning a respected help-desk certification can help IT professionals stand out, validate valuable knowledge and skills, and demonstrate their willingness to learn to employers and hiring managers. 

Help-desk certifications tend to focus on two areas: overarching help-desk functions and job roles or technical support skills with an emphasis on specific vendor platforms or products.

We’ll highlight help-desk certifications that fit both categories while also considering employer preferences and specific in-demand career skills these certifications help verify. 

Did you know?: Some organizations incorporate the best live chat apps into their help-desk offerings to quickly track and resolve issues.

Top help-desk certifications for IT professionals

Some organizations staff help-desk positions to meet support requirements for specific vendor products, platforms, and tools. Others want team members with an excellent general technical background and an understanding of IT operations, practices and procedures. 

Consider the following well-regarded help-desk certifications and determine which ones best suit your needs and career path. 

1. CompTIA A+2022

CompTIA A+ is an excellent entry-level certification for those entering the IT help-desk and hardware support professions. More than 1 million people have earned this credential, and its popularity with IT professionals and employers remains high. 

CompTIA A+ is one of CompTIA’s core credentials; it’s an ideal foundational certification for candidates pursuing a wide range of other IT certifications. (Visit CompTIA’s career path planning tool to see its versatility.) The A+ is well-known and respected in various IT circles; the Department of Defense recognizes it, and it’s a service technician requirement for many enterprise-level companies, including Dell, HP and Intel.

A+ credential holders are support technicians — either in-house or field techs — who can take on the following responsibilities:

• Install, configure, and maintain PCs, laptops, printers and mobile devices.
• Dig into PC and mobile operating systems to configure and troubleshoot those systems.
• Perform basic networking tasks.

In April 2022, CompTIA launched a new CompTIA A+ credential (CompTIA A+ 2022). In this iteration, candidates can expect to find the following updates:

• Greater emphasis on security
• Increased reliance on software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications for remote work, data management, and scripting 
• Focus on a range of operating systems beyond Microsoft systems 

The new test addresses nine core competencies:

1. Harware. CompTIA A+ 2022 addresses identifying, using and connecting hardware devices and components.
2. Operating systems. CompTIA A+ 2022 focuses on installing and supporting Windows OS and system configuration and troubleshooting for macOS, Chrome OS, Linux and Android.
3. Networking. CompTIA A+ 2022 explores networks and connection types like TCP/IP, Wi-Fi, and SOHO.
4. Software troubleshooting. CompTIA A+ 2022 addresses troubleshooting software for PCs, mobile devices and application security support.
5. Troubleshooting. CompTIA A+ 2022 addresses troubleshooting network and real-world device issues.
6. Security. CompTIA A+ 2022 addresses identifying and protecting against device and network security vulnerabilities.
7. Mobile devices. CompTIA A+ 2022 addresses installing and configuring mobile devices.
8. Virtualization and cloud computing. CompTIA A+ 2022 addresses virtualization and cloud computing elements, including setting up client-side virtualization and understanding different cloud computing concepts.
9. Operation procedures. CompTIA A+ 2022 addresses demonstrating and following best practices for communication, safety, and environmental factors.

Two exams are still required to earn the credential:

• Core 1 exam. The Core 1 (220-1101) test focuses on cloud computing and virtualization, hardware, network technology and mobile devices. 
• Core 2 exam. The Core 2 (220-1102) test covers operating system installation and configuration, security, operational procedures and troubleshooting software.

The previous version of the A+ test was launched in January 2019 and retired in October 2022. If you’re starting preparations for the CompTIA A+ exam, ensure you’re studying for the latest test version.

Did you know?: CompTIA certifications are part of a broader iterative roadmap. For example, A+ leads to CompTIA’s Network+ certification, which opens into a wider range of certifications for cybersecurity, administration and more.

CompTIA A+ facts and figures

Tip: When you’re ready to move beyond fundamental networking tasks, consider additional certifications to advance your networking career and achieve titles like network specialist, network administrator or network technician.

2. Apple Certified Support Professional

If you’re a fan of MacBooks and all things Apple, the Apple Certified Support Professional certification is a must. Targeting IT professionals who support Macs, iPhones and iPads in business, this certification validates a candidate’s knowledge and the technical skills necessary to support these platforms and Mac products. 

To earn the certification, candidates must pass the Apple Device Support exam. While the test has no prerequisites, Apple encourages all aspirants to view the free Apple Device Support tutorials. Additionally, Apple encourages people to have hands-on experience supporting Apple devices with at least 30 to 60 hours of preparation experience. 

The Apple Certified Support Professional is also an excellent starting certification for moving deeper into the Apple space, as it’s a prerequisite to earning the Apple Certified IT Professional certification. As Apple devices become more common in enterprise environments, demand for Apple knowledge may also increase. 

Apple certifications are increasingly popular, especially as Macs become more common in enterprise environments and companies switch from PC to Mac. Apple continues to demonstrate high-quality customer support by preparing in-house support professionals to help their organizations support Apple computers. 

Check out Apple’s Training and Certification page and select the certification of your choice for more info. 

Apple Certified Support Professional facts and figures

Tip: To further shore up your Apple device skills, consider pursuing the AppleCare Hardware Certification program, which is among the best computer hardware certifications around.

3. HDI-CSR: HDI Customer Service Representative

The HDI-CSR certification is designed for IT professionals in call or support centers. Candidates typically have the following talents: 

• Excellent soft skills that facilitate effective communication and listening
• Technical skills to assess customer needs
• The ability to troubleshoot and quickly resolve issues
• The ability to manage challenging customer interactions 

HDI highly recommends training for the HDI-CSR via an online course, virtual classroom or self-study. The training course contains four units that cover the courses below:

• The IT professional’s role in the support center
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Maximum effectiveness

To obtain the HDI-CSR, candidates must pass one test that focuses on one of the following categories:

• Leadership (10 percent)
• Policy and strategy (10 percent)
• People management (10 percent)
• Resources (10 percent)
• Process and procedures (55 percent)
• Performance results (5 percent)

The HDI Learning Center administers the test online, and it must be completed within six weeks of purchase.

Of all the help-desk certifications we’re highlighting, HDI’s offerings are probably the best-known and most respected of their kind in the industry. Anyone interested in career advancement in this fast-growing area of IT should dig into HDI’s certification credentials, especially at management levels. 

HDI offers a complete multi-tiered certification program that includes:

Other credentials of interest include:

HDI-CSR facts and figures

Did you know?: If you’re considering parlaying a technical position like a help-desk job into a career in IT management, it’s essential to work on your organizational, project management and people skills.

4. ITIL 4 Foundation

ITIL is an industry-accepted framework for managing IT service delivery. ITIL defines a service lifecycle model for processes and activities during the design, development, delivery, and support of IT services. Axelos, a U.K. company, develops best practices, maintains ITIL, and administers the ITIL certification program.

The ITIL Foundation is the entry-level certification in the ITIL scheme, which also includes Managing Professional, Strategic Leader and Extension Module certifications. At the Foundation level, an individual understands key concepts, terminology, roles, and core processes involved throughout the ITIL service lifecycle. 

Although the ITIL Foundation training and examination syllabus specifically includes a service desk component, the entire ITIL Foundation certification lends itself well to the help-desk industry.

Candidates can take a three-day training course through an Accredited Training Organization (ATO) or Accredited Trainer (using the Axelos Find a Trainer web page) and take the test at the end of the course. Alternatively, they can self-study for the test and take it at an ITIL Examination Institute. 

ITIL Foundation facts and figures

Tip: ITIL Foundation certification can also help you establish an enterprise IT architect career. ITIL certs are considered among the best enterprise architecture certifications to advance your IT career.

5. Microsoft 365: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate

Microsoft certifications now have a role-based approach. According to the Microsoft Training and Certification Guide, certs are available for five primary focus areas: Azure, Dynamics 365, Microsoft 365, Power Platform and Security. 

Our pick for the most helpful certification for help desk professionals is the Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate. The credential validates the following skills:

• Deploying, installing and configuring the Windows operating system
• Configuring and managing storage and connectivity for devices 
• Maintaining the Windows operating system
• Protecting any associated devices and all data within those devices
• Establishing identity and access management 
• Establishing and managing configuration profiles and compliance policies
• Protecting, maintaining, and managing devices
• Managing applications

To earn the credential, candidates must pass two exams:

• Windows Client (Exam MD-100) 
• Managing Modern Desktops (MD-101). 

Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate

Beyond the top 5 help desk certifications

In addition to the help-desk credentials we’ve highlighted, various outlets offer other tech support certification offerings. Here are some to consider:

• Ed2Go. Ed2Go (part of Cengage Learning, a major publisher of community college textbooks) offers a certificate program called Help Desk Analyst: Tier 1 Support Specialist. The program is part of business, computer science and information technology curricula at community colleges, universities, four-year colleges and private higher-education companies that offer IT training programs.
• RCCSP Professional Education Alliance. For help-desk professionals in leadership roles, RCCSP Professional Education Alliance offers the Help Desk Team Lead training and certification program. The two-day training program specifically targets professionals in leadership and management roles. courses covered include escalation and conflict management, help-desk processes and best practices, people management, coaching, and quality assurance. 

In the help-desk certification arena, the more you look around — and the more specific a target you choose — the more options you’ll find. Outside the credentials we’ve highlighted, proceed with caution.

Key takeaway: The technology field changes rapidly. New certifications arise, and existing ones are retired frequently. When pursuing help-desk certifications or any of the best IT certifications, ensure they address technologies with long shelf lives that will continue to be in demand.

Choosing the right certification

Selecting the right help-desk certification often means deciding or determining the best technology to focus on. For example, professionals working in environments with heavy Apple or Microsoft usage will likely benefit from those proprietary training paths. In contrast, generalists can find valuable information from HDI, ITIL or CompTIA paths. 

Ultimately, help-desk professionals should remember that skills from any certification will be transferable across roles. 

Jeremy Bender contributed to the reporting and writing in this article.

Lillian Barnard, CEO of Microsoft South Africa.

Software firm Microsoft and its professional social networking platform LinkedIn have announced the next step in the Skills for Jobs programme.

They are providing free access to 350 courses and six new Career Essentials Certificates for six of the most in-demand jobs in the digital economy.

LinkedIn and Microsoft will also offer 50 000 LinkedIn Learning scholarships to help people get ahead in their skilling journey.

Microsoft says by 2025, it will have helped train and certify 10 million people with skills for in-demand jobs.

According to the firms, this launch builds on the Global Skills Initiative, which helped 80 million jobseekers around the world access digital skilling resources.

Locally, they note, the Global Skills Initiative has helped over 680 000 people gain access to digital skills, with more than 30 000 learning paths completed since July 2020, including 460 professional Microsoft certifications obtained.

Certifications included Azure Fundamentals, Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate, Power BI Analyst Associate, Microsoft Azure Developer Associate and Fundamentals.

Popular Microsoft Learn learning paths completed included Get Started with Artificial Intelligence, Create Powerapps, Create Use Analytics Reports, M365 Manage Team Collaboration and Power Platform Fundamentals. Popular LinkedIn Learning courses were Project Manager, Sales Development, Customer Service, Critical Soft Skills and Data Analyst.

Using data from LinkedIn and the Burning Glass Institute, Microsoft analysed job listings to determine six of the roles in greatest demand – administrative professional, project manager, business analyst, systems administrator, software developer and data analyst.

The new courses and certificates will be offered in seven languages: English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese and Japanese.

This expansion builds on Microsoft’s commitment to supporting inclusive economic opportunity so learners around the world have equitable access to the skills, technology and opportunity needed to succeed in a digitising economy, says the software company.

“A declining economy and a high unemployment rate remain key challenges in our country. Digital skills are now more important than ever as almost every job requires some level of digital competence,” says Lillian Barnard, CEO of Microsoft South Africa.

“The new courses and certificates aim to empower unemployed South Africans by providing them with the relevant digital skills to secure in-demand jobs in the digital economy.”

The new Career Essentials Certificates are designed to help learners bridge the gap from basic digital literacy, to more advanced technical skills training and gain certifications that will be valuable to securing employment, says the firm.

Once a learning pathway is completed, it notes, learners will receive a LinkedIn badge to denote their certificate and indicate fluency in the skillset to employers.

All courses are available on LinkedIn at opportunity.linkedin.com. Microsoft-developed courses are available on Microsoft Community Training and in downloadable format for use on other learning management systems for non-profit partners.

Microsoft and LinkedIn are providing free access to 350 courses and six new Career Essentials Certificates for six of the most in-demand jobs in the digital economy.

The tech companies said the initiative is the next step in the Skills for Jobs programme.

Microsoft and LinkedIn will also be offering 50 000 LinkedIn Learning scholarships.

The software giant will help train and certify 10 million people with skills for in-demand jobs.

It said this launch builds on the Global Skills Initiative, which it claims helped 80 million jobseekers around the world access digital skilling resources.

South Africa

Microsoft said the Global Skills initiative has helped more than 680 000 people gain access to digital skills with more than 30 000 learning paths completed since July 2020, including 460 professional Microsoft certifications obtained.

Qualifications

Certifications included Azure Fundamentals, Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate, Power BI Analyst Associate, Microsoft Azure Developer Associate, and Fundamentals.

Popular Microsoft Learn learning paths completed included Get Started with Artificial Intelligence, Create Powerapps, Create Use Analytics Reports, M365 Manage Team Collaboration, and Power Platform Fundamentals.

The popular LinkedIn Learning courses included project manager, sales development, customer service, critical soft skills, and data analyst.

In-demand jobs

Using data from LinkedIn and the Burning Glass Institute, Microsoft analysed job listings to determine six of the roles in greatest demand:

• Administrative professional
• Project manager
• Business analyst
• Systems administrator
• Software developer or data analyst

Microsoft said the new courses and certificates will be offered in seven languages, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese.

Declining economy and unemployment

Lillian Barnard, CEO of Microsoft South Africa, said a declining economy and a high unemployment rate remain key challenges in the country.

“Digital skills are now more important than ever as almost every job requires some level of digital competence. The new courses and certificates aim to empower unemployed South Africans by providing them with the relevant digital skills to secure in-demand jobs in the digital economy.”

Microsoft said the new Career Essentials Certificates are designed to help people bridge the gap from basic digital literacy to more advanced technical skills training and gain certifications that will be valuable to securing employment.

“Once a learning pathway is completed, learners will receive a LinkedIn badge to denote their certificate and indicate fluency in the skillset to employers.”

Courses

All courses are available on LinkedIn here.

In addition, Microsoft-developed courses are also available on Microsoft Community Training (MCT) and in downloadable format for use on other learning management systems (LMS) for non-profit partners.

ALSO READ: Microsoft SA and Nedbank collaborate to drive Pan-African sustainability

Microsoft and LinkedIn have announced the next step in the Skills for Jobs programme, aimed ay providing free access to 350 courses and six new Career Essentials Certificates for six of the most in-demand jobs in the digital economy.

The two companies will also offer 50,000 LinkedIn Learning scholarships to help people in their skilling journey. By 2025, says Microsoft, it will help train and certify 10-million people with skills for in demand jobs. The launch builds on the Global Skills Initiative, which helped 80-million jobseekers around the world access digital skilling resources.

Locally, the Global Skills initiative has helped over 680,000 people gain access to digital skills with more than 30,000 learning paths completed since July 2020, including 460 professional Microsoft certifications obtained. Certifications included Azure Fundamentals, Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate, Power BI Analyst Associate, Microsoft Azure Developer Associate, and Fundamentals.

Popular Microsoft Learn paths completed included Get Started with Artificial Intelligence, Create Powerapps, Create Use Analytics Reports, M365 Manage Team Collaboration, and Power Platform Fundamentals. Popular LinkedIn Learning courses were Project Manager, Sales Development, Customer Service, Critical Soft Skills, and Data Analyst.

Using data from LinkedIn and the Burning Glass Institute, Microsoft analysed job listings to determine six of the roles in greatest demand: Administrative Professional, Project Manager, Business Analyst, Systems Administrator, Software Developer or Data Analyst. The new courses and certificates will be offered in seven languages, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese. This expansion builds on Microsoft’s commitment to supporting inclusive economic opportunity so learners around the world have equitable access to the skills, technology, and opportunity needed to succeed in a digitising economy.

“A declining economy and a high unemployment rate remain key challenges in our country,” says Lillian Barnard, CEO of Microsoft South Africa. “Digital skills are now more important than ever as almost every job requires some level of digital competence. The new courses and certificates aim to empower unemployed South Africans by providing them with the relevant digital skills to secure in-demand jobs in the digital economy.”

The new Career Essentials Certificates are designed to help learners bridge the gap from basic digital literacy to more advanced technical skills training and gain certifications that will be valuable to securing employment. Once a learning pathway is completed, learners receive a LinkedIn badge to denote their certificate and indicate fluency in the skillset to employers.

• All courses are available on LinkedIn at opportunity.linkedin.com. Microsoft-developed courses are also available on Microsoft Community Training (MCT) and in downloadable format for use on other Learning Management Systems (LMS) for nonprofit partners.

News

Microsoft Previews Organizational Messages for Windows 11 Users

• By Kurt Mackie
• 11/21/2022

Microsoft has released a preview of a Microsoft Intune "Organizational Messages" capability for IT pros, which lets them send notices to Windows 11 users, per a Thursday announcement.

The Organizational Messages preview is available within the Microsoft Endpoint Manager Admin Center portal. It works with the Intune November service release version 2211, which also features a new "Multiple Administrator Approval" capability.

Microsoft had initially described Organizational Messages back in October as part of its Ignite event announcements. It was created to help organizations with remote workforces that "needed better tools to onboard, connect, and engage their users," Microsoft had explained back then.

Message Display Options
Organizational Messages get displayed to users on the Windows 11 desktop in three ways. First, IT pros can set them to appear "just above the desktop taskbar," which might be used for important notifications, such as "a critical software update."

Second, messages can be set to appear in the Notification Center space on the Windows 11 desktop, which might be done for "optional updates" or training notices.

Lastly, messages can be included when onboarding new Windows 11 computers via the "Get Started App." The Get Started App is Microsoft's name for the initial PC setup experience that users see. These types of messages actually appear within the Get Started App.

IT pros get certain controls over the messages that get sent to Windows 11 users, such as the ability to repeat a message if it's not acted upon. They also get an overall dashboard view in the Microsoft Endpoint Manager Admin Center portal. The dashboard will show the message types that were sent and their status, plus the start and end dates of the messages.

Requirements and Roles
The Organizational Messages preview capability is just supported for "devices running Windows 11 version 22H2 and later," the announcement explained. No other supported operating system was mentioned. The devices getting messages have to be "Intune managed" as well, per Microsoft's "Overview" document.

The licensing required to use Organizational Messages is either "Microsoft 365 E3/E5, or Enterprise Mobility + Security E3/E5 and Windows 11 Enterprise E3/E5," per the announcement.

IT pros have to enable certain policies beforehand to start using Organizational Messages. To set up and schedule the messages, IT pros need to have Intune Administrator or Azure Active Directory Global Administrator roles.

Microsoft also created two new "built-in roles" that permit IT pros to set up messages under the Organizational Messages scheme. There's a new Intune Organizational Messages Manager role, as well as a new Azure Active Directory Organizational Messages Writer role.

For the 15th year in a row, the company makes this top training list.

TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- New Horizons IT and Business Training Solutions, a leading global provider of cutting edge IT training to corporate learners and administrators, announced today that the company has again made the list of the Top 20 IT & Technical Training Companies in the world by Training Industry. With its 2022 listing, New Horizons has now made the list fifteen consecutive years.

"Our Top IT Training List is based on thorough analysis of the capabilities, experience and expertise of IT training providers," wrote the publication's editors when the 2022 awards were announced. "We continuously monitor the training marketplace looking for the best providers of IT training that offer a breadth of courses and content."

In an increasingly complex digital environment, companies are seeking IT professionals who have the skills required to make best use of the tools they have already invested in. As the industry's recognized one-stop partner for life-long technology and business career advancement or team optimization solutions, New Horizons offers an extensive selection of vendor-authorized training classes for top technology providers like Adobe, AWS, Cisco, Citrix, CompTIA, Microsoft, VMware and more.

According to the publication, selection of this year's Top IT Training Companies List was based on the following criteria:

• Breadth and quality of program and service offerings.
• Industry visibility, innovation and impact in the IT and technical training market.
• Client and customer representation.
• Business performance and growth.

"Training Industry is one of the most trusted sources of information for the business of learning, so we are very pleased to again make this prestigious list," said Mikell Rigg Parsch, New Horizons CEO. "In this fast-changing world, it behooves companies to offer their employees the opportunities they are seeking to upskill and remain relevant. We're proud to be the training partner that more companies are choosing to meet this goal."

About New Horizons
To be effective in today's fast-changing marketplace, organizations must stay current with technology, professional, and business skills. For 40 years, New Horizons IT and Business Training has been the technology partner guiding firms into the future through a global franchise network that spans six continents and over 30 countries. New Horizons is certified as an AWS Training Partner, Citrix Authorized Learning Center, Cisco Partner for Platinum Learning Solutions, CompTIA Authorized Platinum Partner, Microsoft Partner with a Gold Learning competency, RedHat Business Partner, and VMware Authorized Training Center. Grow your team and your business with effective technology and leadership skill development. For more information, visit www.newhorizons.com.

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SOURCE New Horizons

Recognizes highest caliber of information security

PLEASANTON, Calif., Nov. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Avatier, the industry leader in identity and access management, today announced it has received ISO 27001:2013 certification for its Information Security Management System (ISMS).

ISO 27001:2013 is an information security standard published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the world's largest developer of voluntary international standards, and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Avatier's certification was issued by A-LIGN, an independent and accredited certification body based in the United States, on the successful completion of a formal audit process. This certification is evidence that Avatier has met rigorous international standards in ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the Avatier Identity Anywhere platform.

Avatier develops identity management and governance platforms that enable organizations to scale faster, innovate quicker and embrace change more securely. Avatier's identity access management (IAM) and identity governance and administration (IGA) solutions do not require client software, so management is in real-time across any platform, such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Teams, or iOS and Android.

"This certification demonstrates Avatier's continued commitment to information security at every level and ensures our customers that the security of their data and information has been addressed, implemented, and properly controlled in all areas of their organization," said Jeremy Russeau, Avatier CISO.

About Avatier Corporation

Avatier is the Identity Management company of the future with innovative solutions for today. Avatier develops a "state of the art" identity management platform enabling workforce collaboration resulting in better customer experiences and increased revenue. The company's Identity Anywhere platform uses container technology, providing maximum flexibility, scalability and security in a platform-independent and portable solution that futureproofs your investment. Avatier's identity management and access governance solutions make the world's largest organizations more secure and productive in the shortest time at the lowest costs. Avatier brings all your back-office business applications and employee assets together and manages them as one.

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For more information, visit www.avatier.com.

Media Contact:

Len Fernandes
Firecracker PR
(888) 317-4687 ext. 707
348672@email4pr.com

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SOURCE Avatier

Washington D.C., Nov. 28, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration's Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development (IATF) and Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs (ACVBA) announced that the task force will hold their next set of virtual public meetings on December 7 and December 8, respectively, via Microsoft Teams.

"Both the IATF and ACVBA committee meetings serve as opportunities for participants to learn the latest on the state of veteran-owned small businesses and discuss how the SBA can continue to serve the military and veteran community," said Associate Administrator for the SBA Office of Veterans Business Development, Larry Stubblefield. "This quarter, participants will receive an important update on the SBA's Veteran Small Business Certification Program."

WHAT: IATF and ACVBA Virtual Public Meetings

• The IATF meeting will include committee member updates from the Departments of Veterans Affairs (VA), Treasury, Defense, Labor; U.S. General Services Administration; Office of Management and Budget; North Carolina Business Center; the American Legion; VET-Force; and the National Veteran Small Business Coalition.

• The ACVBA meeting will cover briefings from SBA's Office of Veterans Business Development on the SBA's Veteran Small Business of Financial Assistance, VA, and the Madison Services Group.

WHEN:

IATF Meeting

ACVBA Meeting

WHO:

• Larry Stubblefield, Associate Administrator, SBA Office of Veterans Business Development

• Robert Bailey, ACVBA Chairperson, Veteran Small Business Owner

• IATF and ACVBA Committee Members

Guest Speakers from Interagency Partners and Veterans Service Organizations

HOW:

The IATF will meet on Wednesday, December 7, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. (EST) via this Microsoft Teams link. To join the meeting by phone instead, use 206-413-7980 and enter the Conference ID: 978023539#.

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The ACVBA will meet Thursday, December 8, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (EST) via this Microsoft Teams link. To join by phone instead, dial 206-413-7980 and enter the Conference ID: 674127009#.

Public comments and questions are strongly encouraged to be submitted in advance via email by December 6 to veteransbusiness@sba.gov. For technical support, please visit the Microsoft Teams support page. Meeting presentations and minutes will be available after both meetings at www.sba.gov/ovbd under the "Federal Advisory Committees" section.

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About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

CONTACT: Press Offce United States Small Business Administration press_office@sba.gov