Question : Qualifications For A Web Designer / Developer / IT Specialist

Hi all,

I was just interested in hearing what the experts think about qualifications for a Web Designer / Developer / IT Specialist.

Ive been doing this now on and off for 5 years (working for myself). Initially started out doing graphic design, and have an excellent knowledge of Adobe, Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash MX.
Excellent knowledge of HTML, CSS, Intermediate knowledge of ASP, VBScript, Javascript, DHTML, Actionscript, Access, SQL Server2000 and have intermediate to excellent knowledge of computer hardware / software support (microsoft).

I am getting sick however of working for myself, doing everything from sales, concept, development, R&D and support.

I do not have any qualifications, just my portfolio. Initially got invloved in the industry as a apprentice computer technician but I soon found myself having to do web development and print work (under my computer technician apprenticeship) which I soon left due to what they were paying (peanuts).

I would like to be working for a company where I look after all the website needs (design & development) / graphic design (print) / computer hardware & software support needs. (Im sure these positions are out there)

My aim is to aquire these certifications

Macromedia Dreamweaver Developer
Macromedia Flash Designer
Macromedia Flash Developer

Adobe Photoshop Expert
Adobe Illustrator Expert
Adobe After Effects Expert
Adobe InDesign Expert

A+ Service Technician

Do you think having these certifications would classify me as knowling what I am doing as a designer?

What are the other certifications that I could chase on the programming side?
I do enjoying the design / creating side of web development the most but have just learned certain programming languages because I had to.
Id be interested in seeing what other experts are actually qualified as and what there recommendations would be.
As I know a lot of people doing web design / development and they are in the same boat, just self taught.

Then I look at people like Joshua Davis, Jens Karlsson and Eric Jordan who apparently have no qualifications, but are just dedicated to there passions and are successful at what they do, because they beleive in education systems based on learning through experimentation.

Ideas, suggestions would be cool.

Answer : Qualifications For A Web Designer / Developer / IT Specialist

Id say that all you really need is to put together a resume in a way that emphasizes your work experience over qualifications and provide links to sites developed or work done.  Qualifications are nice, but Im a believer in real work experience.  Once you get a job, they will most likely pay for you to get certified or qualified in any courses you may want to take to increase your knowledge.  (My work covers 2 courses per semester)

You just have to prove to the company that you can do what they require and take care of any issues that may arise in the future.

 On your resume list your knowledge of programming languages, operating systems, etc... List the people you have done work for in the past and links to what you did for them

~Stu :-)