Are Applied Skills Replacing Microsoft Certifications?
Microsoft Learn Applied Skills credentials are not replacing Microsoft Certifications. Microsoft is expanding their credentialing portfolio to cater better to learners and customers, allowing validation of specific skill sets with this new offering. Microsoft Certifications are continuing to be role-based, and still assess a broad range of skills essential for success in key roles within today’s fast-evolving technical landscape. The Applied Skills credentials available on Microsoft Learn, are scenario-based, focusing on narrower skill sets needed to address specific business problems or challenges organizations currently face.
This article outlines the difference between the two credentials now offered by Microsoft. Hopefully this will give you better clarification on why both are offered, when to choose between them, and how both Certifications and Applied Skills credentials can help you level up your career.
Microsoft Role-Based Certifications: The Cornerstone of Success
Microsoft’s role-based certifications are well-established in the industry. These certifications cover a broad range of skills necessary for critical job roles. Think of these as a comprehensive toolkit, equipping professionals with everything they need to tackle the challenges of the specific technologies and products covered on each certification exam.
These certifications are designed to evaluate a wide spectrum of abilities, ensuring that the certified individual is well-prepared to handle diverse tasks and responsibilities. From cloud computing to cybersecurity and DevOps, these certifications are a testament to one’s capability to thrive in a specific role.
Applied Skills Credentials: The New Kid on the Block
The Microsoft Learn Applied Skills credentials are not here to replace the traditional certifications, but are instead meant to complement them. Applied Skills credentials focus on narrower, scenario based skills sets that are crucial for addressing particular business problems. Picture them as the fine-tuning of your expertise, honing in on what’s needed for a specific applications or workloads.
The Applied Skills are scenario-based, which means they test your ability to apply your skills in real-world situations. This approach helps validate your proficiency in dealing with specific challenges that organizations face today.
Why Both Applied Skills and Certifications?
You might be wondering why Microsoft offers both types of credentials. The answer lies in flexibility and relevance. Organizations and individuals have varying needs. Some roles require a broad set of skills, while others demand expertise in particular areas. By providing both role-based certifications and Applied Skills credentials, Microsoft caters to a wider audience, ensuring that everyone finds a path that suits their career goals and the demands of their job.
The Benefits of Role-Based Certifications
Here’s a couple of the primary benefits of Microsoft certifications:
- Comprehensive Skill Assessment: These certifications cover a broad range of skills, making you a well-rounded professional.
- Industry Recognition: Being certified by Microsoft is a significant badge of honor that is recognized globally.
- Career Advancement: Holding a role-based certification can open doors to new job opportunities and promotions.
The Advantages of Applied Skills Credentials
- Focused Expertise: These credentials validate your ability to solve specific problems, enabling you to hone in your skills for specific workload scenarios.
- Real-World Application: Since they are scenario-based, these credentials prove your practical knowledge and hands-on experience.
- Quick to Obtain: Unlike broader certifications, Applied Skills credentials can be earned more quickly, allowing for rapid upskilling in specific skill sets.
How to Choose Between Them
Deciding whether to pursue a role-based certification or an Applied Skills credential depends on your career goals and the needs of your organization. If you’re looking to establish a solid foundation and demonstrate your comprehensive skill set, a role-based certification might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you need to validate your ability to address specific challenges or want to quickly add a new skill to your repertoire, an Applied Skills credential could be more beneficial.
Summary
Microsoft’s role-based certifications and Applied Skills credentials serve different but complementary purposes. Role-based certifications provide a broad and deep understanding of essential skills for specific roles, while Applied Skills credentials focus on specific abilities needed to tackle particular challenges. By offering both, Microsoft ensures that professionals have the tools they need to succeed in the ever-changing career field of technology.
So, what’s your next step? Whether you’re aiming to broaden your skill set or hone in on a specific area, there’s a Microsoft certification or Applied Skills credential for you. Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and advance your career in the dynamic ways that best fit your career path.