IT Architecture certifications
There are several flavors of certification for IT architects. There is no de-facto standard though.
Here is a short overview of the certifications available:
- ITAC: The IT architect certification program from the Open Group.
- Certified Information, IT and IT-Business Architects fromSCIA
- MCA: Microsoft Certified Architect
- ISSAP: Information Systems Security Architecture Professional from (ISC)2, specially aimed at security architects
Each of these certifications are based on proving a large amount of experience (for instance, MCA certification demands at least 10 years of experience, of which 3 years working as an architect). Usually an assessment takes place (on paper), where references are checked, and after that an interview in person is taken.
The technical knowledge needed as IT architect is usually very wide and deep. One must have extensive technical knowledge (specially on infrastructures) and one must prove to have used these techniques in more than one environment. Some of the certifications demand a proof of knowledge by asking for a case, which must me presented in person to a jury.
Except technical skills, personal skills are also tested, like leadership, presentation techniques and convincing powers.
This entry was posted on Friday 19 January 2007