The role of the database professional is quickly evolving to conform with the ever changing demands of the business world. The new game of the data pro is adaptation.
The demarcation between the roles of database administrator and database developer has disappeared. You cannot succeed in one path without succeeding in another. Those two roles – administrator and developer – have been rolled into one just like the two different sides in a coin.
The SQL Server 2012 Certification has responded to this call. If the Professional-level Certifications currently posted on the Microsoft site become final, there will only be two distinct Certifications SQL Server 2012 (and maybe onward) – Data Platform and Business Intelligence, each consists of 5 required exams.
If we take a close look, these two certifications are not really distinct. They share common exams:
- Exam 70-461: Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012
- Exam 70-462: Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Databases
- Exam 70-463: Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server 2012
The Data Platform Certification has the following distinct required exams:
- Exam 70-464: Developing Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Databases
- Exam 70-465: Designing Database Solutions for Microsoft SQL Server 2012
While the Business Intelligence Certification has:
- Exam 70-466: Implementing Data Models and Reports with Microsoft SQL Server 2012
- Exam 70-467: Designing Business Intelligence Solutions with Microsoft SQL Server 2012
These two certifications are quite different in scope but indistinguishable in function. We can see a reduced separation that used to set apart the Database Pro from the BI Pro. People expect you to know both Administration and BI just because you know SQL Server.
There are discernible implications from these changes:
1. Know the Cloud as a platform
According to Microsoft, the two SQL Server 2012 Certifications are designed to “prove your knowledge and skills in designing, building, and maintaining the next wave of cloud-ready database and information solutions.” The Cloud as a business solution is gaining traction in the business world. It is now becoming a necessity and not simply a storage preference.
2. Know Facts and Dimensions
Businesses are not just looking at data anymore as source for information critical to their day-to-day business operation. With the help of advance database technologies, business people can now easily slice and dice their metadata to produce even more valuable data to boost their fiscal advantages in their market.
3. Know that all Platform Will all Soon Pass
The business of business is the driver of your career. Specialization of one platform or feature is a bane for your career. Generalization is not good either. Remember, demands of business will determine what, when, how and where your career will evolve.
4. Know Adaptation
Continuous learning is imperative. It’s hard to predict what’s down the road five or ten years from now. But if we have the correct knowledge, it’s not hard to read the indicators of what the future will be like.
To sum up, the database as a platform is quickly changing to conform with the demands of business. If you know how to adapt, you’ll have a great chance at succeeding in your career as a Data Pro.
Photo courtesy of flickr user BigSee
