If you are looking at some kind of computer training program, then the first thing to consider is just what your actual objective is. Have you got work planned that needs specific I.T. user skills, or is it that you just want to know how to use the internet more widely? And then again, you may be aiming to re-define your career completely and get in to the I.T. sector itself.

Identifying the goal you want to obtain from the training program should always be your most important concern. Once you are clear about the reason you need training, you can take an educated evaluation on which will be the best sort to suit your needs. It will also stop you from creating any mistakes as a result of opting for an incorrect program.

Those people at the absolute beginning of their PC literacy learning curve should complete the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL). The ECDL will teach you the way to use basic functions of 'Windows', - the particular operating system for virtually all PCs. You will also learn about web browsers (to help you to surf the net,) plus e-mail software (to help you to keep in contact with friends.) A little is also covered on how to make use of spreadsheets and perform a little word-processing.

If you wish to increase your skill set for work related purposes, you may choose to take some more formal training. An extensive knowledge of 'Microsoft Office' stands out as the skill set most people require at this level. By far the most practical commercial accreditations teaching Office are Microsoft 'Office Specialist' and Microsoft 'Certified Application Specialist' (identified recognised in industry as 'MOS' & 'MCAS'). The 'MOS' features the Microsoft Office 2003 environment under Windows XP (still probably the most popular commercially), whereas the MCAS emphasises 'Windows Vista' and Office 2007, and so may be better suited for the long run. Both accreditation tracks contain individual examinations across the key Microsoft 'Office' applications: "Word", Excel, "Powerpoint" & Access - for word processing, spreadsheets, 'presentations' and 'databases'. Each of them are well-respected examinations and help to make things simple for employers to recognise your advanced ability with the packages.

You'll be able to look into each aspect more extensively by going to dedicated pages on this site. We cover all the certification tracks necessary to get you in to industry. Should you wish, we can send you our detailed Lollypedia e-book free of charge, which offers you the chance to contact our professional advisory team.

You can break IT employment tracks down in to various different categories - 1) Networking, (Security and Support), 2) Programming & Software-development, 3) Database Administration and Development and 4) Web Design, - both creative & technical aspects. Each area of expertise requires it's own specific skill-sets and certifications, with numerous qualifications from beginner to extremely advanced. The sheer amount of accreditations on offer in these fields can be at first off-putting to the brand-new trainee, but this is why a sensible careers discussion with an industry advisor can open up what's appropriate for your personality-type, goals & learning style.

If professional I.T. work is the end ambition, you could begin with training in IT Support work. The Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST) is an excellent qualification if you are planning to provide software support for business users. Set aside around 100 hrs of study time to acquire this type of certification.

Advanced IT qualifications will take you to full Professional level. The most popular starting point for hardware support, networking and security jobs would be the 'CompTIA' A+ and 'Network+' qualifications. These exams will take care of the basics of hardware & network installation, trouble-shooting, administration, security & support. Training time is often generally around 200-250 hrs to cover both courses, and so can be realistically carried out in 6 months on a part time study basis.

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