Microsoft own 'Visual Studio', which is the foremost Windows software program development 'environment'. 'C#.Net' & 'Visual Basic.Net' tend to be the preferred 'languages' to learn. You can learn more about these on our specialist Programming & Development web pages. MCAD and 'MCSD' certifications have now undergone an update to the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) & the 'Microsoft Certified Professional Developer' ('MCPD').

A top of the range package of training will undoubtedly have wholly authorised exam preparation systems. Steer clear of depending on unauthorised preparation materials for exams. The way they're phrased is sometimes startlingly different - and often this creates real issues when the proper exam time arrives. Obviously, it's very important to ensure that you are completely prepared for your commercial exam before embarking on it. Rehearsing 'mock' tests helps build your confidence and will avoid you getting frustrated with wasted exam attempts.

So, why might we choose commercial qualifications and not more traditional academic qualifications taught at the state educational establishments? Industry now acknowledges that to cover the necessary commercial skill-sets, certified accreditation supplied for example by Microsoft, CompTIA, CISCO and Adobe most often has much more specialised relevance - at a far reduced cost both money and time wise. They do this through concentrating on the actual skills required (along with a proportionate degree of associated knowledge,) rather than trawling through all the background 'padding' that academic courses often do (to fill up a syllabus or course).

It's rather like the advert: 'It does what it says on the tin'. Companies need only to know where they have gaps, and then request applicants with the correct exam numbers. They'll know then that all applicants can do what they need.