"James Elsey" <james.elsey@serengeti-systems.com> wrote: [...]

I’m interested in taking the Ubuntu certification, primarily because that’s the distro I’m most familiar with, yet I’d still class myself as a “beginner” user ( I can install software, work my around the terminal etc etc)

I’ve read that you need to take LPI 101, 102, and 199 for this, but I’ve also read that the UCP is somewhat of a gimmick compared to the Red Hat certifications

Are these qualifications recognised well, i.e. did they help you with new jobs in the past?

Where I work, an Ubuntu certification would be a minor plus point, but taking LPI, particularly if you took it through past UK affiliate OpenForumEurope, would raise some questions about why you are supporting such dodgy organisations. (A few years ago, OFE's leaders campaigned in favour of software patents, see http://perens.com/Articles/Taylor while LPI still says it "seeks to become recognized as the global leader in the certification of Linux professionals". In practical terms and my experience a few years ago, that meant destroying all other qualifications and promoting LPI's Xamnet vapourware.) Is it possible to take LPI with free and open source software now? Who is this new LPI-UK.org? Their domain registration info is hidden and LPI (UK) Ltd is marked as dissolved at companieshouse.gov.uk (but I'm getting "Server Busy We are currently experiencing unusually high volumes of usage and are unable to satisfy your request. Please try again. Error Code: 777" messages from the search just now). In general, demonstration is always beter than certification for GNU/Linux work. Hope that helps, -- MJ Ray (slef) Webmaster for hire, statistician and online shop builder for a small worker cooperative http://www.ttllp.co.uk/ http://mjr.towers.org.uk/ (Notice http://mjr.towers.org.uk/email.html) tel:+44-844-4437-237