RE: state of the midrange (fwd)

Very well stated.  We have an operator here.  She has been with the company 
for over 20 years.  She handles the backups, entering people into 400, NT and 
Notes security.  Assists with scheduled downtimes, maintenance bills and many 
more things.  And I am damned glad to have her.  However, could she order a 
PTF or use some new backup feature on the 400 without being told?  No.  (Had 
to show her yesterday that you use an asterisk not an x to multiply.)  Perhaps 
the testing tests for a broad based knowledge versus a niche employee.





sallen@fellowes.com on 08/11/99 03:23:16 PM
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Subject:        RE: state of the midrange (fwd)

Despite having first seen an as400 only 1 year ago, i have recently achieved
the Professional Systems Administrator qualification.

My main reason for taking it was to demonstrate that although the length of
time i have spent on the platform is limited ( i am from a NT background),
thorough sheer hard work i feel i have gained a broad knowledge of the
platform, to a fair degree of depth.  This qualification is primarily for
interview purposes when i next change jobs.  I found the test extremely
challenging, and had i not spent the majority of that year doing nothing but
learning as400's, i wouldn't have passed.

Obviously the test is no substitute for say 10 years as400 experience, but
it is an alternative measure of ability.  As such i feel it is valid.
However the overall ability of an interviewee should always be measured by a
combination of factors - qualifications, training recieved, experience, etc.

I may not be able to compete for a senior as400 role due to that lack of
experience, but the certificate certainly strengthens my position.

Regards,

Stuart
IBM CS - PSA
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