BCS launches online professional development initiative

Michiel van der Voort, BCS director international and professional development, explains it's part of a larger project to enhance BCS's professional development products, services and certifications. "Following consultation with IT professionals, employers, industry experts and training providers, we are repositioning our certifications to the BCS Professional Certifications portfolio," explains van der Voort. "This is to ensure our certifications are aligned with our IT skills and competency framework, SFIAplus, and other services from the institute, enabling us to provide IT professionals with more comprehensive and valuable career support." The new initiative, which will come to fruition over the coming months, he says, sees a range of new elements including: an online tool for tracking career paths, BCS membership grades and professional certifications; a new certification website area, including areas for training providers, IT professionals and employers; updated professional certifications; and an online examinations system. "Understanding what you need to do to advance in your chosen career is very important," says van der Voort. "Ambition can take you so far, but having the right skills, gaining the right professional certificates, networking, managing your career and professional development are all important aspects to consider when planning where you want to be."