Kingston launches new certification to standardise web development community

Jan. 16, 2011 - PRLog -- Australian internet expert Phillip Kingston has launched a new online certification to help standardise web developer qualifications in what he says is a “very fragmented, highly contextual and (ironically) technologically backward” industry.  Web programming is expected to represent the future of programming and software development as it sits behind world-changing e-commerce applications such as eBay, search engines such as Google, web-integrated mobile applications on the iPhone/iPad, websites, media platforms such as YouTube and blog platforms such as Blogger.  Kingston’s new Kingston Certified Internet Developer (KCID) programme will standardise the recruitment of programmers globally, removing headache from HR departments and for freelancing programmers everywhere.

Web programmers come from a variety of backgrounds and “the best programmers come from many places.  Often great programmers are self-taught.  Additionally, there are a number of university / TAFE pathways in Australia and abroad.” Phillip says.  But, a good education does not necessarily create a good programmer, he warns.

Unlike other industries, web programming does not have a professional body, nor do many universities collaborate on content.  Many universities teach web programming languages only as an adjunct to a Computer Science, Software Engineering or Information Technology degrees.  So, the background of industry workers differs significantly.  “The Internet Developer Program is not about learning, it is about standardisation” Phillip re-iterates.  Employers receive hundreds (if not thousands) of applications for any job listed in the web programming space, 60% of which will originate from India.  “How does an employer screen applicants when they all have different degrees from different universities that cover different content? How does an employer know if a self-taught programmer is worth an interview? How do prospective clients of a freelancing programmer ascertain the true skill-set on offer?” Phillip says.

The role of the Kingston Certified Internet Developer Programme is to simplify the application and interview process for employers. By taking the appropriate test and becoming certified, developers will be able to reliably communicate their skill level to prospective employers. Employers and recruitment companies who are embracing the KCID are also supporting the first step toward an industry-led skills and experience standardisation – a small but pivotal step in the evolution of the web development industry.

# # #

The Kingston Certified Internet Developer Programme (KCID) was developed in mid 2010 by Kingston Development – Australia’s pre-eminent development company.

The purpose of the KCID is clear: to remove the head-ache in hiring web programmers.

The KCID aims to:

Identify and prioritise core programming knowledge in the context of commercial web application development;
Provide employers and recruiters with a quick and robust method to screen candidates before interviews or organisational screening;
Continue to work with industry to ensure that the Programme levels continue to match commercial requirements