Passing the PMP certification test "Lessons Learned"

Hello Everybody,

I hope you are doing great...because actually I am J

Just wanted to tell you that I have passed my PMP certification exam on the 5^th of July 2011 and would like to share with you some points taken from my personal experience: "Lessons Learned"

A.    Ramona Boulos, PMP trainer: Simply great…

1.     The notes were superb especially the tips & tricks.

2.     The guidelines were excellent.

3.     The issues discussed during the course were just popping in the exam

4.     The duration of studying requested: Believe her you need 2 months with the average of 4 hours daily and in the weekend you need 8 hours J

5.     Driving the trainees to memorize the processes figure & formulas was invaluable.

B.     Studying for the exam: Hectic but really useful in all aspects…

1.     PMBOK guide 4th edition including all appendixes: twice…one time the hard copy and another time the pdf version being selective in searching important points.

2.     Rita Mulcahy: Well, I didn’t read the whole book, just some tips in the beginning.

3.     Sample questions: Very important, but don’t expect any of them in the exam. They are useful to put you in a state of mind on what to expect and how to respond.

4.     Google a lot: There are a lot of other PMPs who discuss sample questions and analyze the reason behind their answer.

5.     I really did a lot of research and found material that I don’t recall seeing them in the course like:

6.     Variance of triangular distribution: [(OP-PM)2 + (ML-PM)X(ML-OP)]/18

7.     Process Capability Index: PCI=(Upper Limit-Lower Limit)/6XSigma

8.     Standard Error= Sigma/Sqr Root of Number.

9.     Other info, however they didn’t show on the exam.

In case you are not able to have a study group, then you need someone to train / teach or test your knowledge with. My Fiancée here played a fantastic role; I guess she has reached a point where she is able to register for the exam J

C.     The Exam: Exquisite Experience, here are some tips...

1.     Take the morning exam if you can, you will be more concentrated; it worked for me. However you might have some hard time sleeping the night before J

2.     The 4 hours are not enough to finish the 200 questions more than once J

3.     If you are planning to do a full review; well, think twice before spending more than 5 minutes on a single question.

4.     Mark questions for review in case you don’t get the answer the first time. Believe me when you see it a second time, you will have a better perspective.

5.     Don’t do my mistake and start the exam before writing the famous processes figureJ in front of you.

6.     There were 15 minutes for review and preparation; by mistake, I pressed start and the exam time started counting. So I had to do the figure & formulas while the time was running and I lost 10 minutes.

7.     Read the questions well, watch out for LEAST, NOT, MOST, etc…

8.     Imagine yourself the project manager on the field and answer. Experience here plays an important role in choosing the best answer.

9.     The questions were too situational and needed analysis more than memorizing.

10.  About risk, well there were more than 10 questions on risk types: mitigation, avoidance, and acceptance, enhance, exploit and share.

11.  Earned value management: CPI, SPI, EAC, etc…

12.  Team development: forming, storming, norming, performing.

13.  PMI code of ethics and professional conduct: There were direct questions about respect & honesty.

14.  The processes figure is really helpful when answering questions because you can use it to link the whole project together.

15.  Don’t panic if you see the clock running quickly J; it means you have few questions left.

16.  If you finish all the 200 questions before the time is over, don’t hesitate to start a review from the beginning. You might answer questions the correct way.

17.  If time is over and you are still reviewing, cool down because you still need to do the survey and when you are finished…the result just pops in front of you. “ CONGRATULATIONS on passing the PMP examination” “Examination Result: PASS”

18.  In case you are over whelmed, don’t forget to return the locker key to the exam administrator. In my case, it was still in my pocket J

I hope I was able to give you the whole picture about my exam experience without omitting important details. Moreover, you have my contact details in case you have any queries.

Good luck to ALL.

Best Regards,

Joseph Abou Nader, PMP J

Quoted from http://www.globalknowledge.com/training/generic.asp?pageid=2252&country=United+States:

The Industry's 10 Best IT Certifications

The Industry's 10 Best IT Certifications

IT pros tend to have strong opinions when debating the value of professional certification - and views become even more polarized when it comes down to a discussion of which certs are meaningful. Erik Eckel put together a list of the accreditations he believes currently hold value for IT pros.

IT certifications boast numerous benefits. They bolster resumes, encourage higher salaries, and assist in job retention. But which IT certifications are best?

Technology professionals generate much debate over just that question. Many claim vendor-specific programs best measure a candidate's skills, while others propose vendor-independent exams are the only worthy way of measuring real-world expertise. Still other observers believe the highest-level accreditations - Microsoft's MCSE or new Architect Series certification, Cisco's CCIE, etc. - are the only credentials that truly hold value.
Myself, I don't fully subscribe to any of those mindsets. The best IT certification for you, after all, is likely to be different from that for another technology professional with different education, skills, and goals working at a different company in a different industry. For that reason, when pursuing any professional accreditation, you should give much thought and care to your education, experience, skills, goals, and desired career path.
Once a career road map is in place, selecting a potential certification path becomes much easier. And that's where this list of the industry's 10 best IT certifications comes into play. While this list may not include the 10 best accreditations for you, it does catalog 10 IT certifications that possess significant value for a wide range of technology professionals.

#1: MCITP

The new-generation Microsoft Certified IT Professional credential, or MCITP for short, is likely to become the next big Microsoft certification. Available for a variety of fields of expertise - including database developer, database administrator, enterprise messaging administrator, and server administrator - an MCITP validates a professional's proven job-role capabilities. Candidates must pass several Microsoft exams that track directly to their job role before earning the new designation.

As with Microsoft's other new-generation accreditations, the MCITP certification will retire when Microsoft suspends mainstream support for the platforms targeted within the MCITP exams. By matching the new certification to popular job roles, as has been done to some extent with CompTIA's Server+ (server administrator), Project+ (project manager), and A+ (desktop support) certifications, Microsoft has created a new certification that's certain to prove timely, relevant, and valuable.

#2: MCTS

The new-generation Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) helps IT staff validate skills in installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting a specific Microsoft technology. The MCTS certifications are designed to communicate the skills and expertise a holder possesses on a specific platform.

For example, candidates won't earn an MCTS on SQL Server 2008. Instead, they'll earn an MCTS covering SQL Server business intelligence (MCTS: SQL Server 2008 Business Intelligence), database creation (MCTS: SQL Server 2008, Database Development), or SQL server administration (MCTS: SQL Server 2008, Implementation and Maintenance).
These new certifications require passing multiple, tightly targeted exams that focus on specific responsibilities on specific platforms. MCTS designations will expire when Microsoft suspends mainstream support for the corresponding platform. These changes, as with other new-generation Microsoft certifications, add value to the accreditation.

#3: Security+

Security continues to be a critical topic. That's not going to change. In fact, its importance is only going to grow. One of the quickest ways to lose shareholder value, client confidence, and sales is to suffer a data breach. And no self-respecting technology professional wants to be responsible for such a breach.

CompTIA's Security+ accreditation provides a respected, vendor-neutral foundation for industry staff (with at least two years of experience) seeking to demonstrate proficiency with security fundamentals. While the Security+ accreditation consists of just a single exam, it could be argued that any IT employee charged with managing client data or other sensitive information should, at a minimum, possess this accreditation. The importance of ensuring staff are properly educated as to systems security, network infrastructure, access control, auditing, and organizational security principles is simply too important to take for granted.

#4: MCPD

There's more to information technology than just administration, support, and networking. Someone must create and maintain the applications and programs that power organizations. That's where the new-generation Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) credential comes into play.

The MCPD accreditation measures a developer's ability to build and maintain software solutions using Visual Studio 2008 and Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5. Split into three certification paths (Windows Developer 3.5, ASP.NET Developer 3.5, and Enterprise Applications Developer 3.5), the credential targets IT professionals tasked with designing, optimizing, and operating those Microsoft technologies to fulfill business needs.
A redesigned certification aimed at better-measuring real-world skills and expertise, the MCPD will prove important for developers and programmers. Besides requiring candidates to pass several exams, the MCPD certification will retire when Microsoft suspends mainstream support for the corresponding platform. The change is designed to ensure the MCPD certification remains relevant, which is certain to further increase its value.

#5: CCNA

The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) accreditation captures most of the networking company's certification glory. But the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) might prove more realistic within many organizations.

In a world in which Microsoft and Linux administrators are also often expected to be networking experts, many companies don't have the budgets necessary to train (or employ) a CCIE. But even small and midsize corporations can benefit from having their technology professionals earn basic proficiency administering Cisco equipment, as demonstrated by earning a CCNA accreditation.
As smaller companies become increasingly dependent upon remote access technologies, basic Cisco systems skills are bound to become more important. Although many smaller organizations will never have the complexity or workload necessary to keep a CCIE busy, Cisco's CCNA is a strong accreditation for technology professionals with a few years' experience seeking to grow and improve their networking skills.

#6: A+

Technology professionals with solid hardware and support skills are becoming tougher to find. There's not much glory in digging elbow-deep into a desktop box or troubleshooting Windows boot errors. But those skills are essential to keeping companies running.

Adding CompTIA's A+ certification to a resume tells hiring managers and department heads that you have proven support expertise. Whether an organization requires desktop installation, problem diagnosis, preventive maintenance, or computer or network error troubleshooting, many organizations have found A+-certified technicians to be more productive than their noncertified counterparts.
Changes to the A+ certification, which requires passing multiple exams, are aimed at keeping the popular credential relevant. Basic prerequisite requirements are now followed by testing that covers specific fields of expertise (such as IT, remote support, or depot technician). The accreditation is aimed at those working in desktop support, on help desks, and in the field, and while many of these staffers are new to the industry, the importance of an A+ certification should not be overlooked.

#7: PMP

Some accreditations gain value by targeting specific skills and expertise. The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a great example.

The Project Management Institute (PMI), a nonprofit organization that serves as a leading membership association for project management practitioners, maintains the PMP exam. The certification measures a candidate's project management expertise by validating skills and knowledge required to plan, execute, budget, and lead a technology project. Eligible candidates must have five years of project management experience or three years of project management experience and 35 hours of related education.
As organizations battle tough economic conditions, having proven project scheduling, budgeting, and management skills will only grow in importance. The PMI's PMP credential is a perfect conduit for demonstrating that expertise on a resume.

#8: MCSE/MCSA

Even years after their introduction, Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) and Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) credentials remain valuable. But it's important to avoid interpreting these accreditations as meaning the holders are all-knowing gurus, as that's usually untrue.

In my mind, the MCSE and MCSA hold value because they demonstrate the holder's capacity to complete a long and comprehensive education, training, and certification program requiring intensive study. Further, these certifications validate a wide range of relevant expertise (from client and server administration to security issues) on specific, widely used platforms.
Also important is the fact that these certifications tend to indicate holders have been working within the technology field for a long time. There's no substitute for actual hands-on experience. Many MCSEs and MCSAs hold their certifications on Windows 2000 or Windows Server 2003 platforms, meaning they've been working within the industry for many years. While these certifications will be replaced by Microsoft's new-generation credentials, they remain an important measure of foundational skills on Windows platforms.

#9: CISSP

As mentioned with the Security+ accreditation earlier, security is only going to grow in importance. Whatever an organization's mission, product, or service, security is paramount.

(ISC)², which administers the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) accreditation, has done well building a respected, vendor-neutral security certification. Designed for industry pros with at least five years of full-time experience, and accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the CISSP is internationally recognized for validating a candidate's expertise with operations and network and physical security, as well as their ability to manage risk and understand legal compliance responsibilities and other security-related elements.

#10: Linux+

While pursuing my first Microsoft certification 10 years ago, I remember debating the importance of Linux with several telecommunications technicians. They mocked the investment I was making in learning Microsoft technologies. These techs were confident Linux was going to displace Windows.

Well, didn't happen. Linux continues to make inroads, though. The open source alternative is an important platform. Those professionals who have Linux expertise and want to formalize that skill set will do well adding CompTIA's Linux+ certification to their resumes.
The vendor-neutral exam, which validates basic Linux client and server skills, is designed for professionals with at least six to 12 months of hands-on Linux experience. In addition to being vendor-neutral, the exam is also distribution neutral (meaning the skills it covers work well whether a candidate is administering Red Hat, SUSE, or Ubuntu systems).

Let the debate begin

Technology professionals almost always have strong reactions when debating certification's value. Listing the top 10 certifications leaves room, of course, for only 10 credentials. That means many favorite and popular designations, such as HIPAA and Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) certifications, have been necessarily omitted. Other important accreditations, including those for VoIP providers and from PC manufacturers, Red Hat, and even Apple, have also been left out here.

Which certifications would you leave off this list and which would you add in their place? Join the discussion (link below) and share the logic behind your choices.

About the Author

Erik Eckel is president of two privately held technology consulting companies. He previously served as executive editor at TechRepublic. Read his full bio and profile.

This article reprinted courtesy of TechRepublic.

PMP: Examination Result: PASS

Congratulations on passing the PMP examination

Community Post

Community Post

Substantial Completion

The date at which the work or building project, or a designated portion of the work or building project thereof is sufficiently complete, in accordance with the construction contract documents, so that the owner may use or occupy the work or building project or designated portion thereof for the intened use for which it is originally designed and intended for.

This would include the completion of all life saftey systems, weathertight envelope, and adequate protection of building occupants and or equipment is ensured from hazzards posed by additional or possible construction activities or other potential harmful conditions that may exist or become evident during the final work effort to complete the project per the construction contract documents.

This date is then certified by the architect to the owner or client. From this date a number of other provisions are started such as warranty, guaranties, and liabilities

Read more: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_the_definition_of_substantial_completion#ixzz1PLGLlpYm

Product Scope

The product scope description can be used as an input to the Scope Definition process when the project charter and/or preliminary project scope statement are missing.

Utility Theory: Encyclopedia of Management

Quoted from http://www.enotes.com/management-encyclopedia/utility-theory:

Utility Theory: Encyclopedia of Management

Utility Theory

• Utility theory provides a methodological framework for the evaluation of alternative choices made by individuals, firms and organizations. Utility refers to the satisfaction that each choice provides to the decision maker. Thus, utility theory assumes that any decision is made on the basis of the utility maximization principle, according to which the best choice is the one that provides the highest utility (satisfaction) to the decision maker.

UTILITY THEORY IN CONSUMER BEHAVIOR

Utility theory is often used to explain the behavior of individual consumers. In this case the consumer plays the role of the decision maker that must decide how much of each of the many different goods and services to consume so as to secure the highest possible level of total utility subject to his/her available income and the prices of the goods/services.

Community Post

Community Post

Processes Changes in PMBOK guide 4th Edition

Here is a list of changed processes in the PMBOK guide from the third to the fourth editions:

4.2 - Develop Preliminary Scope Statement --> Deleted
4.7 - Close Project --> Changed to 4.6 Close Project or Phase
5.1 - Plan Scope -->Deleted
5.1 - Collect Requirements --> Added
9.4 - Manage Project Team --> Changed from a controlling to an executing process
10.1 - Identify Stakeholders --> Added
10.4 - Manage Stakeholders --> Changed to manage stakeholders expectations; changed from a controlling process to an executing process
12.1 - Plan Purchases and Acquisitions and 12.2 Plan Contracting --> Changed to 12.1 Plan Procurements
12.3 - Request Sellers Responses and 12.4 Select Sellers --> Changed to 12.2 Conduct Procurements

PMP sample questions

A project manager is working in a country where it is customary to pay the police for private protection services. The PM's senior manager tells him that in another country, that would be considered a bribe and should not be done.

What is the BEST way for the project manager to proceed?

A. Ask his senior manager for guidance.

B. Do not pay the police for private protection services, because that would definitely be a bribe.

C. Pay the police for private protection services, because it is customary in the country they are operating in.

D. Consult the Cost Management Plan about payments.

Answer: C

Explanation:Some questions might ask you about how to operate in another country. In this case, the question is about whether or not something is a bribe. Clearly, if it's a bribe, you can't pay it. However, if a payment to a government official (or anyone else) is customary, then it's not a bribe. You should go ahead and pay the police - as long as it's acceptable and legal in that country.


You are managing a construction project to install wiring in an office building. You discover that one of your team members has taken a box of cable from the job site so he can wire his attic at home.

What is the BEST way to respond?

A. Report the team member to PMI

B. Call the police

C. Report the team member to your manager

D. Do nothing

Answer: B
Explanation:If you discover that someone has broken the law, it is your duty to call the authorities and report that person. You need to do this, even if it seems like the offense is minor.



Which conflict resolution technique is most effective?
A. Withdrawal
B. Compromise
C. Smoothing
D. Confronting


Answer: D
Explanation:
Confronting means figuring out the cause of the problem and fixing it. That's the best way to be sure that the right decision is made.

Quoted from http://support.microsoft.com/kb/918685:

Error message when you install SQL Server 2005 or SQL Server 2008: "The file C:\Windows\Microsoft.NET\Framework\[version_number]\mscorlib.tlb could not be loaded"

Article ID: 918685 - Last Review: February 12, 2009 - Revision: 4.0

 

Error message when you install SQL Server 2005 or SQL Server 2008: "The file C:\Windows\Microsoft.NET\Framework\[version_number]\mscorlib.tlb could not be loaded"

 

SYMPTOMS When you install Microsoft SQL Server 2005 or Microsoft SQL Server 2008, you rec...

When you install Microsoft SQL Server 2005 or Microsoft SQL Server 2008, you receive the following error message: The file C:\Windows\Microsoft.NET\Framework\version_number\mscorlib.tlb could not be loaded. An attempt to repair this condition failed because the file could not be found. Please reinstall this program.Note version_number is a placeholder for the version number of the Microsoft .NET Framework, such as v1.0.3705, v1.1.4870, or v2.0.50727.

After you install SQL Server 2005 or SQL Server 2008, you may receive an error message that resembles this error message every time that you start Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio.

 

CAUSE This issue occurs because the path of the Mscorlib.tlb file is incorrectly inter...

This issue occurs because the path of the Mscorlib.tlb file is incorrectly interpreted during the Setup process.

 

WORKAROUND Important This section, method, or task contains steps that tell you how to modi...

Important This section, method, or task contains steps that tell you how to modify the registry. However, serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly. Therefore, make sure that you follow these steps carefully. For added protection, back up the registry before you modify it. Then, you can restore the registry if a problem occurs. For more information about how to back up and restore the registry, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base: 322756 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/322756/ ) How to back up and restore the registry in Windows

 

For SQL Server 2005

To work around this problem, you must manually specify the correct path of the Mscorlib.tlb file in the registry. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Click Start, click Run, type regedit, and then click OK.
2. Locate the following registry subkey: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server\90\Tools\Shell\TlbAutoRepair\mscorlib.tlbNotes
   • If you install SQL Server 2005 on 64-bit operating systems, locate the following registry subkey: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server\90\Tools\Shell\TlbAutoRepair\mscorlib.tlb
   • If you install SQL Server 2005 Express Edition with Advanced Services, locate the following registry subkey: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server\90\Tools\ShellSEM\TlbAutoRepair\mscorlib.tlb
3. In the right pane, double-click the registry entry TlbPath. The Edit String dialog box appears.
4. In the Value data box, replace %CLRVERSION% with the following value: v2.0.50727Note The value v2.0.50727 indicates the version of the .NET Framework that the original release version of SQL Server 2005 uses.
5. Click OK, and then exit Registry Editor.

Important If you install a SQL Server 2005 service pack or hotfix, the service pack or hotfix will change the value that you replace in step 4 back to %CLRVERSION%. If the problem that is described in this article still exists after you install the service pack or the hotfix, you must following these steps again to work around this problem.

 

For SQL Server 2008

To work around this problem, you must manually specify the correct path of the Mscorlib.tlb file in the registry. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Click Start, click Run, type regedit, and then click OK.
2. Locate the following registry subkey: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server\100\Tools\Shell\TlbAutoRepair\mscorlib.tlb NotesIf you install the 32-bit version of SQL Server 2008 on 64-bit operating systems, locate the following registry subkey: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server\100\Tools\Shell\TlbAutoRepair\mscorlib.tlbIf you install SQL Server 2008 Express Edition with Advanced Services, locate the following registry subkey: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server\100\Tools\ShellSEM\TlbAutoRepair\mscorlib.tlb
3. In the right pane, double-click TlbPath.
4. In the Value data box, replace %CLRVERSION% with the following value: v2.0.50727 Note The value v2.0.50727 indicates the version of the .NET Framework that the original release version of SQL Server 2008 uses.
5. Click OK, and then exit Registry Editor.

Important If you install a SQL Server 2008 service pack or hotfix, the service pack or hotfix will change the value that you replace in step 4 back to %CLRVERSION%. If the problem that is described in this article still exists after you install the service pack or the hotfix, you must following these steps again to work around this problem.

Microsoft Dynamics GP Road Map

GP 2010 (Year 2010)

·         Role Tailored BI

·         Next level of Office integration and Workflow

·         Corporate Performance Management

GP 2010 R2 (Year 2011)

·         Contextual BI

·         Risk Management Workflow

·         Microsoft Lync Action
Short Cuts

GP “12” (Year 2012/2013)

Continued innovation targeted at mid-market with particular focus on:

·         Web Client Deployment

·         Office 365 Leadership

·         Simplicity

GP “14” (Year 2015-2016)

Continued innovation with particular focus on:

·         Next Gen UI

·         Contextual Role Tailored Workflow

·         Breadth of Features

PMI Credential Application Process

Dear Joseph Abou Nader,
Congratulations! Your PMP application is complete and has been approved. You have one year from the date your application was approved, which was 21 Apr 2011, to sit for and pass the exam. This is known as your exam eligibility period and is discussed in detail in your respective credential handbook.
The next step in the process is to submit payment. Before you can schedule your examination, you need to first pay the fee.

Microsoft Certifications | Certification Programs | IT Certifications

Quoted from http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/view-by-name.aspx:

Microsoft Certifications | Certification Programs | IT Certifications

Get to the next level with certification

The following tables list Microsoft Certifications by name and describe how they enable IT professionals to help display and validate their skills and experience.

IT professional

MCTS	A Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification helps enable IT professionals to target specific technologies and to distinguish themselves by demonstrating in-depth knowledge and expertise.
MCITP	A Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate comprehensive skills in planning, deploying, supporting, maintaining, and optimizing IT infrastructures.
MCDST	A Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate technical and customer service skills in troubleshooting hardware and software operation issues in Microsoft Windows environments.
MCSA	A Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate their ability to administer network and systems environments with Windows Server 2003–based business solutions. Note For newer Microsoft technologies, such as Microsoft Exchange Server 2010, Windows Server 2008, or Microsoft SQL Server 2008, you should pursue the MCITP certification.
MCDBA	A Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate their ability to design, implement, and administer Microsoft SQL Server databases.
MCSE	A Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate their ability to design and implement an infrastructure solution with Windows Server 2003–based business solutions. Note For newer Microsoft technologies, such as Exchange Server 2010, Windows Server 2008, or SQL Server 2008, we recommend that you pursue the MCITP certification.
Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist for Microsoft Dynamics	A Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate their proficiency with Microsoft Dynamics and related business products.
Microsoft Certified IT Professional for Microsoft Dynamics	A Microsoft Certified IT Professional certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate professional proficiency with Microsoft Dynamics in one of three areas: applications, developer, or installation and configuration.
MTA	A Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certification helps students explore career options in technology, prepare for advanced studies and MCTS exams, and demonstrate their fundamental knowledge of hardware and IT infrastructure.

Developer

MCPD	A Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate comprehensive skills in designing, developing, and deploying applications for a particular job role. These certifications show that you have the skills required to perform the job successfully.
MCAD	A Microsoft Certified Application Developer (MCAD) certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate their ability to use Microsoft technologies to develop and maintain department-level applications, components, Web or desktop clients, or back-end data services.
MCSD	A Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD) certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate their ability to design and develop leading-edge business solutions with Microsoft development tools, technologies, platforms, and the Windows operating system.
MTA	A Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certification helps students explore career options in technology, prepare for advanced studies and MCTS exams, and demonstrate their fundamental knowledge of software technology.

Advanced certifications

Microsoft Certified Master	The Microsoft Certified Master program helps enable experienced IT professionals to demonstrate and validate their ability to successfully design and implement solutions that meet the most complex business requirements.
Microsoft Certified Architect	The Microsoft Certified Architect program recognizes and provides advanced certification to practicing architects in an enterprise setting.

Home and office user

MOS	A Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) is globally recognized for demonstrating advanced business skills in using Microsoft Office 2010, the 2007 Microsoft Office system, and Windows Vista; or highly developed skills in using other Microsoft desktop software.

Trainer

MCT	A Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT) certification helps enable IT professionals to demonstrate they can successfully deliver Microsoft training courses to IT professionals and developers.
MCLC	The Microsoft Certified Learning Consultant (MCLC) credential recognizes Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCTs) whose job roles have grown to include frequent consultative engagements with customers. These MCTs are experts in designing and delivering customized learning solutions.

Company is being updated by another client

If you are trying to update your Dynamics GP from version 8.0 to 9.0 and the application stops responding, you might need to restart the GP utilities.
When you launch Microsoft Dynamics GP utilities again, you might get the following message: "Company is being updated by another client".

you need to delete the table duLCK from the database DYNAMICS using the below query:

Use Dynamics
Delete duLCK

Now you can run utilities again and continue the upgrade.

Dynamics GP 9.0 SP2-Fatal Error Encountered

While installing Dynamics GP 9 SP2 on a windows vista based machine, you might receive the following error:

A fatal error was encountered.
The Microsoft Dynamics GP Installation has ended prematurely. Click Finish to exit the installation.

In order to fix the above error, you need to install Microsoft .NET Framework 1.1 Service Pack 1 which you can find on the following link: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?FamilyID=a8f5654f-088e-40b2-bbdb-a83353618b38&DisplayLang=en

Thanks

Quoted from https://mcp.microsoft.com/mct/default.mspx:

Welcome Microsoft Certified Trainer

Welcome Microsoft Certified Trainer

• MCT Download Center
• Microsoft Learning Courseware Library
• MCT Program Competencies
• MCT Forums
• MCP Exam Discounts
• My Transcript
• View My Profile
• MCT Program Benefits

Online Certification Application | Project Management Institute Certification Program

Quoted from https://certification.pmi.org/default.aspx:

Online Certification Application | Project Management Institute Certification Program

You have submitted your PMP application.
PMI is now reviewing your application. The review process may take up to 5 days. During this time, PMI may communicate with the primary contacts you provided on your application to validate your project management experience and/or education.

Software Quotes

Quoted from http://www.softwarequotes.com/showquotes.aspx?id=773&name=Joseph%20Nader:
Software Development Quotations by Joseph M. Abou Nader
"Project managers have never been individually self-reliant."
- Joseph M. Abou Nader

"In order to have a successful software implementation, the project team must have a feeling of harmony. Every player must put the project team in front of personal success."
- Joseph M. Abou Nader

"A thriving implementation team beats with one heart."
- Joseph M. Abou Nader

 

Quoted from http://www.pmi.org/Certification/Why-Choose-a-PMI-Certification.aspx:

Why Choose a PMI Certification

Why Choose a PMI Certification?

You may have seen other project management certifications. What makes PMI’s special?

 

Our credentials:

Are flexible. PMI certifications are not based on one specific methodology, so they’re flexible and adaptable. You can easily transfer them between industries, market segments and geographic locations.

Keep you up-to-date. PMI continually conducts in-depth studies to ensure that our credentials actually reflect the current skills, knowledge and best practices you need to succeed.

Encourage professional growth. You never have to worry about a PMI certification becoming obsolete. Our certification maintenance program requires you to earn professional development units (PDUs), which encourages you to continually develop your skills and stay current as the profession changes.

Help you get ahead. PMI certification offers financial benefits — the Project ManagementProfessional (PMP)® credential increases your salary by up to 10%, according to the PMI Salary Survey — Sixth Edition, 2009—and helps you stand out and better market yourself to prospective employers.

Are renowned throughout the world. Part of that marketability comes from the prestige of PMI certifications. PMI has provided project management certifications for over 25 years, and our PMP® credential was the first one designed specifically for project managers.

Learn more by downloading our “What Sets PMI Certifications Apart” brochure. Choose the location closest to you: North America | Brazil | United Kingdom | Germany | China | India

There’s no doubt that a PMI certification opens doors to success. Decide which PMI certification is right for you.

PMI PMP Credential | Project Management Institute

Quoted from http://www.pmi.org/en/Certification/Project-Management-Professional-PMP.aspx:

PMI PMP Credential | Project Management Institute

Home > Certification > Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP)

Ready to apply? Register and log in to get started.

PMI’s Project Management Professional (PMP)® credential is the most important industry-recognized certification for project managers. Globally recognized and demanded, the PMP® demonstrates that you have the experience, education and competency to successfully lead and direct projects.

This recognition is seen through increased marketability to employers and higher salary; according to the PMI Salary Survey — Sixth Edition, a PMP increases your salary up to 10% more than your non-credentialed colleagues and peers.

 

Who should apply?

The PMP recognizes demonstrated competence in leading and directing project teams. If you’re an experienced project manager looking to solidify your skills, stand out to employers and maximize your earning potential, the PMP credential is the right choice for you.

 

PMP Requirements

To apply for the PMP, you need to have either:

 

• A four-year degree (bachelor’s or the global equivalent) and at least three years of project management experience, with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.
  
  OR
  
• A secondary diploma (high school or the global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience, with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

If you do not meet the PMP requirements, you may want to look at the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® certification.

 

How to Apply

• To apply for the PMP, register and log in to our online system to get started. A printable PMP application form is also available.
• Need more information? Get more information on the PMP’s role and requirements. For a more detailed look, consult the PMP Handbook.
• If you’re ready to take the exam, the PMP exam preparation can get you started. If you plan to take the exam in 2011, please note that an updated version will be used starting 31 August 2011. Find out more about the forthcoming update to the PMP credential exam.

Maintain Your PMP

As a PMP credential holder, you need to earn 60 PDUs per three-year cycle. For more information on credential maintenance, including suggestions for earning PDUs, visit Maintain Your PMI Certification or see the PMP Handbook.

If you’re ready to report your activities, visit PMI’s online CCR system to report PDUs and view your certification records. You can download a printable PDU activity reporting form.

mibuso.com • View topic - Dynamics GP vs Dynamics NAV

Quoted from http://www.mibuso.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=5874:

mibuso.com • View topic - Weakness of Great Plains

Well, I don't call it a weakness, moreover, there are some differences from Navision that I will state:

1-GP is a better solution when it is used off the shelf, while Navision on the other hand offers higher customization.

2- GP is not partner dependant, on the other hand, Navision and when it comes to customization, you will be more dependant on your partner

3- GP is more user friendly, and this is one of the reasons it is more spreading in Africa regions.

4- NAV has CRM as one of its modules, while GP on the other hand is fully integrated with CRM 3.0.

5- Report writer in GP is very rigid, but on the other hand, it links to crystal reports via sql server 2000.

I hope that others will give you additional info

Take Care
_________________
Joseph Abou Nader
MCLC,MCT,MCITP,MCTS,MCSA,MCP
You will never know what power you have until you take decisions in a hard time.

Microsoft Certified Learning Consultant

Microsoft Certified Learning Consultant (MCLC 2010)

Accounting, Financial and Operations Management Software | Microsoft Dynamics GP

Quoted from http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/dynamics/products/gp-overview.aspx:

Accounting, Financial and Operations Management Software | Microsoft Dynamics GP

Why Microsoft Dynamics GP is right for your business

Microsoft Dynamics GP delivers built-in, flexible functionality that provides business value now and into the future. With Microsoft Dynamics GP you can:

 

• Simplify your business with a single solution that connects financials, manufacturing, supply chain, sales and marketing, project management, human resources, and services information. Find out more.

• Improve productivity with familiar, easy-to-use tools such as Microsoft Office that make it easy to communicate and collaborate effectively. Learn more.

• Go beyond basic reporting and extend insight across your entire organization with easy to use, out-of-the-box reporting capabilities and sophisticated analysis tools that help you gain deep insight into your business performance. Role-specific dashboards help set priorities and simplify access to the information your people need to make confident decisions. Find out more.

• Choose from flexible deployment options and implement quickly using our rapid implementation tools, and customize your system to meet your current business needs knowing that you can easily adapt to changing demands by adding functionality, custom applications, and online business capabilities. Learn more.

• Adapt quickly without complicated and costly development time, and easily connect to external applications and data sources. Discover how.

• Realize fast, yet long-term ROI with consistent product releases that keep pace with Microsoft technology innovations, and robust support and training.

Projects Engagements (Major)

ERP Implementations: Project Management, Consultancy, Training & Implementation.

Country	Client
Afghanistan	MTN Afghanistan
Angola	AngoAlissar
Ghana	MTN Ghana
Kuwait	Australian College of Kuwait (ACK)
Lebanon	All Prints
	BLOM Invest
	CHEDID Re
	Data Consult
	Dynagraph
	Fransabank
	Gabriel Bocti
	International Press
	Khonaysser Motors
	Mets Energy
	New TV
	Prologue
	Tehini, Hana & Cie
	SABIS University
Oman	German University of Technology (GUtech)
Qatar	Al Tayeb Trading
	Qatar Generators