Synergy Computing first SA Cognos solutions partner to achieve consultant certification

Synergy Computing, the DataWarehousing and Business Intelligence (BI) specialist, was the first Cognos solutions provider in South Africa to receive Cognos Consultant certification in line with its new certification programmes.

Cognos recently introduced Certification programmes to raise the level of in-house technical product knowledge and expertise of Cognos BI solution providers, such as Synergy. This will ensure that customers receive BI solutions optimised to their business needs and fully utilizing the extensive capability of the Cognos software. It will also ensure that their staff is trained to a high standard by certified trainers.

"Cognos has raised the bar in South Africa as far as the level of expertise within its partner community is concerned. We responded to ensure that customers expectations are met, by ensuring our staff complied with Cognos' new requirements as quickly as possible," said Vera Chaplin, Services Manager, Synergy Computing.

To date, Synergy has certified all of its training personnel and has the most certified Cognos BI solution consultants in Johannesburg. Cape Town and Durban technical personnel are to undergo training shortly.

Training certification has become a pre-requisite for any Cognos partner to be authorised to give customer training on a Cognos product. Without trainer certification, Cognos will not make product training course material available to its partners, thus ensuring that high standards are maintained.

The Cognos BI Solution Consultant Certification process includes an intensive three-day programme of practical, theoretical testing and oral presentations, focused on ensuring consultants have the technical ability to implement all features of the Cognos BI solution and provide on-going technical support. The programme includes skills enhancement for both client server environments and tools, including implementation and support. "Even the most seasoned technical consultants find the process taxing, which is an indication of the high standards demanded," says Chaplin.

"We've raised the minimum quality standards in the delivery of BI solutions because increasing numbers of organisations are recognising the fundamental value of BI in Business Performance, and are demanding more from their vendors," says Juliette Lubbe, Technical Manager, Cognos South Africa.

"It's a tough series of courses, but skills and knowledge development are essential in today's constantly changing high-tech business environment. Our partners must continually equip their consultants with new certified skills through regular education and training to realise the customer's expectations of their BI solutions," concludes Lubbe.