Over the course of my career, I've come across two very different camps when it comes to getting technical certifications. There are those who believe that the piece of paper means nothing and that the only important learning comes from real world experience with the products. They may add that they think the certification programs are just money makers, lining the pockets of the training organizations and the issuers. Then there are those who place a high value on the certifications, noting that in other fields, they are a way of life and regulated. Who would ever use an accountant without their CPA?
I see the value of both arguments and tend to believe in a more blended approach. I think the value of a certification is that you can be compared to others with a baseline of knowledge. It teaches you the "right" way to do things, before you learn all the shortcuts. There is something to be said for formal learning and testing yourself against a graded standard. The certification in of itself is only a starting point, to be combined with real experience to bring the learning to life. As I work on preparing for the Google Cloud Certified - Professional Cloud Architect certification, I have to admit, that I also like having access to those cool credential logos.
What's your take? Do you have a certification you worked hard to achieve? I'd love to hear your story.