.mobi dotMobi Mobile Web Developer Training and Certification

[acc]

dotMobi Mobile Web Developer Certification Program

Great News! - dotMobi will be offering an online mobile website design course and opportunity for certification in mobile site design starting in late March 2007. The cost mentioned is $295 (USDollars).

"dotMobi will offer the world’s first mobile development online training, followed by the world’s first mobile certification program. Certified .mobi developers are certified as having specialized knowledge in mobile web development across multiple platforms (not just for .mobi) including the best practices for development as based on W3C’s “Mobile Web Initiative” documentation and best practices. The certification process will be similar to that of other professional certifications available."

"The certification program will test the individual developers proficiency in building .mobi compliant sites. Following successful certification developers will be given (1) a certification wall display (2) access to dotMobi trustmarks and certified sites marks for use on web sites and (3) added to dotMobi’s directory of certified developers that’s used to match potential development customers with referrals."

Some possible benefits of being certified as stated in the questionnaire include:
1. "A competitive advantage ... compared to other developers".
2. "The ability to use the .mobi trustmark on web site and/or collateral" - this means use of the trustmark on advertising materials such as brochures, business cards, letterhead.
3. "The inclusion in the directory for referrals" - evidently there will be links to find certified mobile designers from the dotMobi website.

There is a survey for website developers at the dotMobi (dev.mobi) site. Here is the page where a link at the lower right corner leads to the survey and the information shared above:
Link to page with dotMobi Developers Survey

This is another fine example of the focus, drive, and professionalism of the dotMobi registry and consortium. They keep rolling out more information and tools for developers, promotion for .mobi sites, and of course metered release of the premium names. Great job dotMobi.

-acc

 

[RizL4]

No news is good news but this news is good news

 

[seanboy]

300 bucks?

Come on...

Oh well, I guess thats cheap compared to some other certifications out there. Here is the link to that survey:

http://www.surveymonkey.com/Users/4...81BC.asp?U=525203253246&DO_NOT_COPY_THIS_LINK

Seanboy

 

[scandiman]

I would love to be able to forward end user buyers of my domains to a directory of certified developers. Much like Adobe or Zend certification.

 

[-Ehsan-]

very nice i may take part in it if they decrease the price abit

 

[satsdifference.com]

Awesome

Dot Mobi just keeps on going, hitting up from all angles.. this is great

$300 is a steal compared to the those typical $2000 webmaster "certificates" rolled out in the early 2000's..

Plus, it raises exposure and offers the ability to use the Dot Mobi banner.

That's great.


Kind Regards,

Yelo

 

[CharlieA]

I'm sorry but this is laughable. I think a developer's work is "certification" enough.

 

[Traveler]

I'm sorry but this is laughable. I think a developer's work is "certification" enough.

I agree but some people need to see the credentials, imho a $300 course does not a mobi developer make.

 

[nombre]

i am assuming this is for experienced designers and not newbies with little web design background?

is that correct ?

 

[acc]

Wait for more details before writing this program idea off

Since the actual scope and all the details of the program are not out yet, to call it "laughable" is a bit premature. I can understand the reluctance of those who do not see the need for being "certified" in order to design good mobile web sites.

Correct and functional site structure and coding, a good design layout, useful and compelling content - that's what makes a good website. I agree with the position that one does not learn how to put all that together in a week or two. But the structural requirements for mobile web site development can be presented and taught in a program like this.

Absolutely, one should have the skills and experience to get the job done properly. That is the most important thing. But don't underestimate the value of having this certification option for many who want to be part of the mobile web design industry.

Potential customers like to know that a business (whose services they are considering) has at least the minimum qualifications to get the job done. There are many examples of the use of industry accreditation in business:

- A small business joins the Better Business Bureau in the US and then adds the BBB-Approved icon on their web site to add another layer of credibility to their online business.

- A new manufacturer joins an industry trade group and mentions that affiliation on their website to advertise their experience and jumpstart their position in the industry.

- An experienced carpenter no matter how good his skills is still required to apply and pay for a license to work in many states. That license tells the customer that there is a good chance that the person they hire has the ability to perform the work properly. Sure, it does not necessarily guarantee customer satisfaction.

This is brand new program whose details are not even released yet so it does remain to be seen how effective it will be and if it is worth the $295 price. That price point should allow most who want to participate do so.

As far as the design aspect of the program - a structured training program like this - whether via an online course or some other venue - is a very good idea. Alternately, as this niche of the industry grows there will be more and more books, tutorials, and forums like NP to learn from for no or little cost.

And of course, existing mobile web site designers are not required to obtain this certification to continue to sell their services. Like the examples of other industry accreditation mentioned above, this is just an available option.

-acc