It Specialist Guide Q 12008

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide
IBM Worldwide IT Specialist

Career Development and Qualification Guide
10 February 2008
Version 2.0
Copyright IBM Corp. 2008, 2007, 2006 IBM Confidential
Table of Contents
1 IT SPECIALIST CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND QUALIFICATION GUIDE.......................... 5

1.1 PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................................ 5
1.2 INTENDED AUDIENCE ............................................................................................................................ 5
1.3 DOCUMENTATION NOTES ...................................................................................................................... 5
1.4 DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT PROCESS ..................................................................................................... 5
2 IT SPECIALIST DESCRIPTION.............................................................................................. 6
2.1 IBMS COMMITMENT............................................................................................................................. 6
2.1.1 Capability................................................................................................................................. 6
2.1.2 Community .............................................................................................................................. 6
2.1.3 Assurance................................................................................................................................ 6
2.1.4 Excellence and Effectiveness................................................................................................... 7
2.1.5 Vitality...................................................................................................................................... 7
3 IT SPECIALIST CAREER DEVELOPMENT COMPONENTS................................................. 8

3.1 IBM COMPETENCIES ............................................................................................................................ 8
3.1.1 Foundational Competencies..................................................................................................... 9

3.1.2 Technical Leadership Competencies........................................................................................ 9
3.2 CLIENT FOCUS CAPABILITIES............................................................................................................... 10
3.2.1 Technical Services................................................................................................................. 10

3.2.2 Technical Sales ..................................................................................................................... 10
3.2.3 Technical Support.................................................................................................................. 10
3.3 IT SPECIALIST TECHNICAL FOCUS ....................................................................................................... 10
3.4 IT PLUS ............................................................................................................................................ 11
4 CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND QUALIFICATION.............................................................. 12

4.1 IT SPECIALIST LEVELS........................................................................................................................ 12
4.1.1 IT Specialist (Entry)................................................................................................................ 12

4.1.2 Advisory IT Specialist............................................................................................................. 12
4.1.3 Senior IT Specialist ................................................................................................................ 12
4.1.4 Consulting IT Specialist.......................................................................................................... 12
4.1.5 Executive IT Specialist ........................................................................................................... 12
4.2 QUALIFICATION .................................................................................................................................. 12
5 QUALIFICATION PROCESSES ........................................................................................... 14

5.1 LEVEL ONE AND LEVEL TWO IT SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION ................................................................... 14
5.1.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................... 14

5.1.2 Process ................................................................................................................................. 15
5.2 LEVEL ONE AND LEVEL TWO IT SPECIALIST RECERTIFICATION................................................................ 17
5.2.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................... 17

5.2.2 Process ................................................................................................................................. 17
6 GOVERNANCE .................................................................................................................... 19
6.1 COMMONLY USED TERMS ................................................................................................................... 19

6.2 PROGRAM STRUCTURE AND GOVERNANCE ........................................................................................... 19
6.2.1 WW IT Specialist Program Governance ................................................................................. 22

6.2.2 IT Specialist Program Audit.................................................................................................... 22
6.3 IT SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION PROCESS - OPERATIONS ........................................................................ 23
6.3.1 Certification Review Interviews............................................................................................... 23

6.3.2 Notification............................................................................................................................. 23
6.3.3 Escalation Process ................................................................................................................ 23
6.3.4 Maintaining Active Certification .............................................................................................. 25
6.4 CERTIFICATION REVIEW BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES ................................................................................ 25
6.4.1 Before the Board Meeting ...................................................................................................... 25

6.4.2 The Interview ......................................................................................................................... 26
6.4.3 The Consensus Meeting ........................................................................................................ 26
6.4.4 Decline Process..................................................................................................................... 27
6.5 CERTIFICATION REVIEW BOARD MEMBERSHIP ....................................................................................... 27
6.6 PROCESS GUIDELINES........................................................................................................................ 28
6.6.1 Inactive Status ....................................................................................................................... 28

6.6.2 Certified IT Specialist Returning to IBM .................................................................................. 28
6.6.3 Extensions ............................................................................................................................. 29
7 APPENDIX A LEVEL DESCRIPTIONS .............................................................................. 30

7.1 CAPABILITIES..................................................................................................................................... 30
8 APPENDIX B IT SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION & DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA .............. 31

8.1 CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................................................... 31
8.1.1 Experience............................................................................................................................. 31
8.1.2 Awards .................................................................................................................................. 32

8.1.3 Product Certifications............................................................................................................. 32
8.1.4 Giveback ............................................................................................................................... 32
9 APPENDIX C - CORE CAPABILITIES ................................................................................. 34

10 APPENDIX D - ENGAGEMENT PROFILES ....................................................................... 36
11 APPENDIX E CLIENT FOCUS CAPABILITIES................................................................ 38
11.1 TECHNICAL SERVICES CAPABILITIES .................................................................................................. 38
11.2 TECHNICAL SALES CAPABILITIES........................................................................................................ 39
11.3 TECHNICAL SUPPORT CAPABILITIES ................................................................................................... 39
12 APPENDIX F - TECHNICAL FOCUS CAPABILITIES ........................................................ 42

12.1 SYSTEMS & INFRASTRUCTURE .......................................................................................................... 42
12.1.1 Storage Systems.................................................................................................................. 42

12.1.2 Networking Systems ............................................................................................................ 43
12.1.3 Systems Management ......................................................................................................... 44
12.1.4 Server Systems.................................................................................................................... 45
12.1.5 Cross Systems..................................................................................................................... 46
12.1.6 Business Partner Enablement .............................................................................................. 48

12.2 SOFTWARE...................................................................................................................................... 49
12.2.1 Application Development (AD) Products............................................................................... 49

12.2.2 Application Integration and Middleware ................................................................................ 50
12.2.3 Data Management ............................................................................................................... 51
12.2.4 Content Management........................................................................................................... 53
12.2.5 Portal and Collaboration....................................................................................................... 54
12.2.6 ISV Software........................................................................................................................ 55
12.3 BUSINESS INTEGRATION SOLUTIONS .................................................................................................. 56
12.3.1 Data Integration ................................................................................................................... 56

12.3.2 Application Development and Maintenance .......................................................................... 58
12.3.3 Business Analysis ................................................................................................................ 59
12.3.4 Business Information Management ...................................................................................... 61
12.3.5 Testing................................................................................................................................. 62
13 APPENDIX G: IT PLUS ..................................................................................................... 65

13.1 OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................................................... 65
13.2 GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING IT PLUS CAPABILITIES .......................................................................... 65
14 APPENDIX H: MAPPING TO OLD DISCIPLINES & SPECIALTIES ................................. 67

15 APPENDIX I - MAINTENANCE .......................................................................................... 68
15.1 IT SPECIALIST CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND QUALIFICATION PROGRAM MAINTENANCE ............................ 68
16 APPENDIX J - GLOSSARY................................................................................................ 69
17 IBM WW ACCREDITED CERTIFICATION PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT............................. 70
17.1 THE OPEN GROUP REQUIREMENTS.................................................................................................... 70
17.2 THE OPEN GROUP EXTENDED REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................... 70
17.3 THE OPEN GROUP ACCREDITED CERTIFICATION PROGRAM GOVERNANCE ............................................. 70
17.3.1 Appeals Process.................................................................................................................. 70

17.4 THE OPEN GROUP ACCREDITED CERTIFICATION PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITIES ....................................... 70
17.5 IBM CONTRIBUTION TO THE OPEN GROUP ITSC VITALITY ................................................................... 72
17.6 ELIGIBILITY FOR GRANDFATHERING .................................................................................................... 73
17.7 THE OPEN GROUP INDIRECT CERTIFICATION....................................................................................... 74
17.7.1 Use of the Program Logo (from ITCS Certification Policy...................................................... 74

17.8 THE OPEN GROUP MAINTENANCE...................................................................................................... 75
17.9 INTERFACING WITH THE OPEN GROUP................................................................................................ 75
1 IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

1.1 Purpose
This guide is to assists the IT Specialist in career development and prepares candidates for qualification
as IT Specialists. The following information is provided:
IT Specialist qualification process description,
Qualification criteria,
Key capabilities and experiences required for individuals pursuing IT Specialist qualification.
1.2 Intended Audience

This document is intended for:
IT Specialists interested in career development,
IT Specialists preparing for qualification,
Reviewers and interviewers of IT Specialist qualification,
Anyone interested in understanding IT Specialists and the qualification process and the criteria.
Please note: Senior Certification is the last qualification milestone for IT Specialists. Senior Certification
for the IT Specialists is synchronized with IT Architects. Details on the senior certification process
can be found: http://w3-3.ibm.com/hr/careerplanner/caita023.html
1.3 Documentation Notes

This document replaces the following:
The Worldwide IT Specialists Career Development Model Version 1.5
The IT Specialists Recertification Nomination Guide Version 4.6
The Worldwide IT Specialist Certification Nomination Guide Version 6.4
1.4 Document Management Process

Changes to this documentation are submitted as a change request to the WW IT Specialist Leader.
Minor changes (clarity, contact information changes) are reviewed with Geography IT Specialist Leaders
for worldwide implementation. Upon approval, changes are accepted and published in next scheduled
release of the documentation. Please note this refers to documentation changes. For information on
changes to the IT Specialist Certification Criteria see appendix I.
2 IT Specialist Description
The Information Technology (IT) Specialist Profession was announced in May 1993 in response to clients'
demand for experienced and skilled experts for internal or external client-related engagements.
Engagements may be categorized as performing on contracts, sales opportunities, projects or documents
of understanding.
The mission of the IT Specialist Program has two components.
To support IBMs development and growth of technically vital professionals with capabilities and
deep skills in technologies, products, and solutions and
To foster community along a well defined technical/professional career path while providing value
to IBM, IBMs clients, and IBM professionals.
With over 50,000 IT Specialists worldwide, the IT Specialist community is by far the largest technical
professional community in IBM.
As IT Specialists matures, it is expected that their area of technical focus may broaden to include deep
skills in areas related to their technical specialty. This development pattern is supported and encouraged
making the professional more well rounded and valuable to their client and IBM.
2.1 IBMs Commitment

The IBM IT Specialist program has established five major goals to support the global, crossorganizational community of IBM IT Specialists.
2.1.1 Capability
The IT Specialist Program fosters and sustains an IT Specialists capabilities with the knowledge, skills,
resources and experiences that maximizes client value, differentiates IBM from the competition, and
enables IBM to meet its business objectives.
2.1.2 Community
The IT Specialist Program uses various mechanisms to facilitate extensive community interactions,
collaborations, innovations, the sharing of experiences and best practices -- and a positive morale.
2.1.3 Assurance
The IT Specialist Program guides, assesses and confirms the status of IT Specialist professionals at
appropriate points in their career through mentoring and independent professional reviews.
2.1.4 Excellence and Effectiveness

The IT Specialist Program endorses, promotes and facilitates the production and use of common
processes, methodologies, intellectual capital tools and practices to maximize the efficiency and
effectiveness of IT Specialists in delivering services and commodities to our customers.
2.1.5 Vitality
The IBM IT Specialist program is enduring and grows with the needs of IBM clients, and adapts to
changes in the marketplace and technology.
3 IT Specialist Career Development Components

Investment in employee capability development provides IBM a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
Client Focus Capabilities describe IT Specialists who are actively engaged in Sales, Services or Support.
Technical Focus Specialty Capabilities describe deep technical expertise in a solution or technology area
required for the IT Specialist. IBMs business units may require professionals develop unique and
specific capabilities to provide client value. These capabilities are defined by the business unit and are
called IT Plus. The following figure depicts and IT Specialist's professional growth in four areas: Client
Focus Capabilities, IBM Competencies (Foundational Competencies and Technical Leadership
Competencies), Technical Focus Capabilities, and IT Plus.
Client Focus Capabilities
3
2
1
IBM Competencies
Capability
3
Development
IT Plus
1
2
3
Technical Focus Capabilities
3.1 IBM Competencies

IT Specialists should use the IBM competencies to develop their careers. Growing in the competencies
will help IT Specialists with Leadership, Influence and Innovation. These three themes are covered in the
qualification criteria. Please refer to the IBM w3 for more information on the IBM competencies. These
competencies are not assessed during qualification. However, this information is provided for career
development.
3.1.1 Foundational Competencies

IBM has identified the core competencies that provide the foundation for an employees professional
growth at IBM. These foundational competencies establish a common standard of excellence across IBM
for all employees.
The IBM Foundational Competencies are:
Adaptability
Teamwork and Collaboration
Client Focus
Creative Problem Solving
Taking Ownership
Passion for the Business
Communication
Trustworthiness
Drive to Achieve
3.1.2 Technical Leadership Competencies

Technical Leadership Competencies are an easy, yet powerful way for employees across the technical
spectrum to hone their leadership skills, while establishing a plan for professional growth.
The IBM Technical Leadership Competencies are:
Client Partnering
Strategic Risk Taking
Collaborative Influence
Earning Trust
Embracing Challenge
Enabling Performance and Growth
Thinking Horizontally
Developing IBM People and Communities
Informed Judgment
Passion for IBM's Future
These technical leadership competencies map to innovation, influence and leadership. As an IT

Specialist advances as a technical leader, they develop their competencies in these areas.
Innovation:
Influence:
Leadership:
Embracing Challenge
Client Partnering
Enabling Performance and
Thinking Horizontally
Collaborative Influence
Strategic Risk Taking
Earning Trust
Growth
Developing IBM People and
Communities
Passion for IBM's Future
Informed Judgment
3.2 Client Focus Capabilities

Capabilities
IT Specialists are deployed across all of IBM's business units in three broad client focus areas defined as:
technical services, technical sales, and technical support activities.
3.2.1 Technical Services

IT Specialists in this client focus area primarily apply their technical expertise in an internal or external client
services and implementation environment. Where it is required to specifically address these professionals
the term "IT Specialist Technical Services" will be used. Examples include: Individuals who are part of one
of IBMs Services Units (for example, Global Business Services, Global Technology Services, and IBM
Software Services) or solutions centers which typically have responsibility for billable revenue or high
utilization.
3.2.2 Technical
Technical Sales
IT Specialists in this client focus area primarily apply their technical expertise to support the sales of IBM and
business partner products. Where it is required to specifically address these professionals the term "IT
Specialist - Technical Sales" will be used. Technical sales professionals reporting to sales specialist units,
competency centers and national technical sales organizations are potential candidates for the IT Specialist
qualification. Examples include, Individuals who are part of technical sales having responsibility for nonbillable activities, such as driving IBM revenue through in-depth, complex demonstrations, technical
evaluations or proof-of-concepts.
3.2.3 Technical Support

IT Specialists in this client focus area primarily apply their technical expertise to support the operation and
maintenance of IBM or OEM products. Where it is required to specifically address these professionals the
term "IT Specialist - Technical Support" is used. Technical support professionals reporting to product support
units and product development organizations are potential candidates for the IT Specialist qualification. This
technical focus area includes criteria for those supporting the brand areas of Application Development,
Industry Solutions, Networking, Systems (Servers & Storage), and Software. Examples include, individuals
who are part of technical support typically have responsibility for non-billable activities, such as resolving
critical customer situations due to product defect.
3.3 IT Specialist Technical Focus

In order to implement complex solutions or contribute to the sale of technically advanced products and
solutions, the IT Specialist should possess deep technical, business, and leadership capabilities in their
specialty area. Qualification candidates must demonstrate that they possess a common set of fundamental
skills and experiences, and must show that they possess deep expertise in one of the following technical
focus areas: Systems and Infrastructure, Software and Business Integration Solutions.
10
Systems & Infrastructure
Software
Business Integration Solutions
IT Specialists in this technical focus
IT Specialists in this technical
IT Specialists in this technical focus area transform
area work with products or solutions
focus area will need to have
business requirements and architecture
based on IBM or OEM hardware and/or
expertise in software products
requirements through analysis, design,
IBM or OEM software. The Systems and
from IBM, OEM vendors or open
development, test and deployment into viable
Infrastructure technical focus area is
sources.
business solutions. Business Integration Solutions
comprised of six specialty areas.
Software products fall under six
has four specialty areas.
specialty areas.
Business Partner Enablement
Application Development (AD)
Application Development and Maintenance
Cross Systems
Products
Business Analysis
Networking Systems
Application Integration and
Business Information Management
Server Systems
Middleware (AIM)
Data Integration
Storage Systems
Content Management
Testing
Systems Management
Data Management
ISV Software
Portal and Collaboration
Note: Business Partner Enablement and Cross Systems are available for level two certification only.
Candidates who certify in the Business Partner Enablement Specialty will not be eligible for recognition in
The Open Group program.
3.4 IT Plus
IT Plus is the integration point where business units, industries or sectors may define additional capabilities
they wish candidates to demonstrate. These specific capabilities are owned by the business units, industries
or sectors and not by the IT Specialist Program. These Business Unit specific capabilities are not included in
this document. The Appendix G includes guidelines for developing IT Plus capabilities.
11
4 Career Development and Qualification

4.1 IT Specialist Levels
There are five positions defined in the IT Specialist primary job category. Please note; it is not necessary to
be classified in the IT Specialist primary job category to apply for level one or level two IT Specialist
Certification.
4.1.1 IT Specialist (Entry)

At this entry point to the job category, professionals begin acquiring the fundamental Information technology
skills in a technical focus area, under the guidance of a mentor or team leader.
4.1.2 Advisory IT Specialist

At this level, the IT Specialist has developed deeper technical skills in a technical focus area and has enough
experience to operate independently. The scope of their influence has begun to expand.
4.1.3 Senior IT Specialist

At this level the IT Specialist has become an expert in their technical focus area and has developed the
business and leadership skills to serve as a manager or key team leader.
4.1.4 Consulting IT Specialist

At this level, professionals have the skills and experience to practice independently as IT Specialists.
4.1.5 Executive IT Specialist

At this level, professionals have the business, technical and leadership skills to create and implement
complex IT solutions, and the scope of their influence impacts major business units.
4.2 Qualification
IT Specialist should possess deep technical, business, and leadership skills in their area of expertise to
implement complex solutions or contribute to the sale of technically advanced products and solutions.
The IT Specialist Program has two levels of qualification validation. At each level of qualification, the
professional is expected to meet the defined criteria.
IBMs professional qualification program:
Facilitates IBM clients acquisition of quality products and services developed, marketed, and
delivered by IBM professionals measured against a defined set of IBM standards.
Maximizes client confidence in the consistent quality of IBM professionals deployed from any part of
IBM to work on the client's needs.
12
Provides a consistent standard worldwide process with ongoing maintenance and enhancement of
IBM's professional excellence.
The mission of the IBMs program is to enable IBM to win in the marketplace by enabling the highest level of
capabilities across geographies and across business units. To achieve this, we must
Develop and maintain a pool of highly and consistently skilled and experienced practitioners that
distinguish IBM from the global competition
Establish consistent standards and best practices for the critical skills throughout IBMs organizations
and geographies
Provide a rich environment to enable employees' control of their career and professional
development
Provide value to our customers by:
Facilitating delivery excellence and responsiveness to delivery issues
Improving the superiority of the product, service or solution they get from IBM
Increasing clients confidence in IBMs ability to deliver on our commitments
Qualification candidates must demonstrate that they possess a common set of fundamental skills and
experiences, and in addition must show that they possess deep skill. Qualification criteria can be found in
Appendix B of this document.
13
5 Qualification Processes
Processes
Qualification Notes:
1. All packages submitted under the considered IBM Confidential and should be treated according to
Corporate Instruction LEG 116 - Classification and control of IBM information
http://w3-03.ibm.com/ibm/documents/corpdocweb.nsf/ContentDocsByTitle/Corporate+Instruction+LEG+116
2. Package submission dates can be found at http://w3-03.ibm.com/hr/careerplanner/caits013.html

3. IT Specialists who certify and are found to have submitted their packages under fraudulent
circumstances or intentionally misrepresent themselves are subject to certification revocation.
4. IBM reserves the right to revoke a professionals certification if approach by the individuals business unit
demonstrates and substantiates a sustained level of non-compliance with the conformance requirements.
This process will be managed differently due to various countries HR and government requirements.
5. IBM reserves the right to revoke a professionals certification if approach by the individuals business unit
demonstrates and substantiates a sustained level of non-compliance with the conformance requirements.
This process will be managed differently due to various countries HR and government requirements.
5.1 Level One and Level Two IT Specialist Certification

5.1.1 Overview
The IT Specialist certification program recognizes IBM professionals currently working as IT Specialists at or
above a defined standard of excellence. A successful nominee for IT Specialist certification demonstrates
experience and abilities in both a client focus area and in a technical focus area specialty.
Candidates should be honest in their capability assessments because they must provide assessment
justifications for certification. A justification consists of a brief statement supporting the assessment and
examples. Two examples must be provided for each capability for level one IT Specialist Certification.
Three examples must be provided for level two IT Specialists certification. Please be concise in supporting
explanations.
Software
Business Integration Solutions
Networking Systems
Server Systems
Products
Business Analysis
Storage Systems
Data Integration
Systems Management
Middleware (AIM)
Testing
Content Management
Level Two Only:
Data Management
Business Partner Enablement**
ISV Software
14
Note: Candidates who certify in the Business Partner Enablement Specialty will not be eligible for
recognition in The Open Group program.
5.1.2 Process
Candidates must work with a mentor to prepare the certification nomination package. The diagram shows
the entire certification process. The process typically operates on a quarterly basis. - The timing from step 1
to step 3 is no greater than three months based on the package cut off date.
Submit
Nomination
1
Return Package
for Improvement
Approve
Package
2
Communicate
Status
6
Assign
Reviewers
Decline
Package
Reviewer
Program
Office
First
Line Manager
Candidate
IT Specialist Level Certification Process
Review
Package
Approve
Board
Members
4
Interview
Candidate
5
Candidates submit package. (1)

Candidates submit the completed package to the Regional IT Specialist Leader for their geography.
Packages are IBM confidential and are treated as such. It is the candidates responsibility to present
an accurate, complete and convincing description of his/her qualifications for certification, and to
ensure that the document is of highest quality. The board expects each package to be of the quality
of a customer deliverable.
Managers Approves Package (2)
First -line managers review the candidate's package for completeness and validate it against the
certification criteria. The first line manager decides to approve the package for board consideration
or returns the package to the candidate for improvement.
IT Specialist Program Assigns Reviewers (3) (4)
IT Specialist program representatives review packages that have been submitted and approved by
the first line managers. Candidates with complete packages are invited to participate in board
interviews. Incomplete packages may be sent back to the candidate for improvement. Note that
15
acceptance of the package and invitation to participate in board interviews does not guarantee
certification.
Candidates invited to board interviews each will be assigned three IT Specialist board members.
Each geography IT Specialist Certification Review Boards and package cutoff dates are published
on the IT Specialist Your Career website. Packages that are received by the package submission
cutoff date are processed for that Certification Review Board Cycle.
Interviewed by Board (5)
Three IT Specialist board members individually interview the candidate. The IT Specialist Board
members must be current with their level one or level two certification to interview level one
certification candidates. Only level two IT Specialist board members are allowed to interview level
two IT Specialist certification candidates. IT Specialist board members interviewing level two
candidates must be current with their level two certification. Each board member reviews the
nomination package.
The interviews provide an opportunity for the candidate to further demonstrate and justify readiness
for certification. It is the candidates responsibility to convince the board that he/she meets the
certification criteria. The board decides if a candidate is accepted or declined for certification using
the information provided in the candidates nomination package and in interviews with the candidate
If the candidate has previously been declined, the same board members as from the candidates
previous attempt(s) at certification will not interview the candidate.
Accepted or Declined
The interviewing board members make a majority recommendation to accept or decline the
candidate for certification during a board review session. Candidates will also be considered for
board nominations at this time. A unanimous decision is required for the candidate to be
successfully nominated for board membership. The Geography IT Specialist Leader reviews the
nominations and needs of the current geography board and invites candidates to serve on the board
accordingly.
Communication of Status (6)
Representatives of the IT Specialist program notify candidates of the results. If a candidate is not
certified, the representative will cite the specific certification criteria, which the board deemed the
candidate did not meet. The candidate also receives developmental recommendations for future
certification attempts.
Declined candidates may resubmit a nomination package when they feel able to demonstrate
through the package and interviews that the criteria and developmental recommendations cited by
the Certification Board have been met.
IT Specialist Program Office Processes Candidate
16
The IT Specialist Program Office will officially record the certification status. The IT Specialist
Program Office will have the appropriate HR information updated for certified candidates.
5.2 Level One and Level Two IT Specialist Recertification

5.2.1 Overview
Certified IT Specialists are required to recertify every three years. The period begins on the date of the
candidates current certification and repeats every 36 months thereafter. Certified IT Specialists who do not
recertify within 4 months of their recertification due date will be decertified. The Regional IT Specialist
Leaders notify candidates 6 months prior to their recertification dues date as a reminder.
Recertification ensures that the IT Specialist is:
Obtaining the most current knowledge
Applying new techniques and technology where appropriate
Contributing to the program on an ongoing basis
5.2.2 Process
Candidates must work with their mentor to prepare their recertification nomination package. The diagram
shows the entire certification process. The process typically operates on a quarterly basis. Based on the
package cut off date - the timing from step 1 to step 3 is no greater than three months.
Submit
Nomination
Return Package
for Improvement
Approve
Package
2
Program
Office
First
Line Manager
Candidate
IT Specialist ReCertification Process
Communicate
Status
6
Assign
Reviewers
Decline
Package
Reviewer
Review
Package
Approve
Candidates submit package. (1)

Candidates submit the completed package to the Regional IT Specialist Leader for their geography.
Packages are IBM confidential and are treated as such. It is the candidates responsibility to present
an accurate, complete and convincing description of his/her qualifications for recertification, and to
17
ensure that the document is of highest quality. The board expects each package to be of the quality
of a customer deliverable.
Note that the IT Specialist program staff must receive the candidates package for the Board being
held in the same quarter as the third anniversary of the candidates previous (re)certification.
Managers Approves Package (2)
First -line managers review the candidate's package for completeness and validate it against the
certification criteria. The first line manager decides to approve the package for board consideration
or returns the package to the candidate for improvement.
IT Specialist Program Assigns Reviewers (3)
IT Specialist program representatives review packages that have been submitted and approved by
the first line managers. Candidates with complete packages are sent to board review. Incomplete
packages may be sent back to the candidate for improvement.
The IT Specialist leader then assigns the package to one IT Specialist board member. To the fullest
extent possible, the board member chosen will be in the technical focus or specialty area in which
the candidate seeks recertification.
Board review (4)
The board member reviews the package for compliance with the requirements for recertification.
Accepted or Declined
The package reviewer and the board reviewer reach a recommendation about the candidates
recertification and present that to the IT Specialist leader. A third reviewer will be involved if there is
a disagreement.
Communication of Status (5)
Representatives of the IT Specialist program notify candidates of the results. If a candidate is not
recertified, the representative will cite the specific certification criteria, which the board deemed the
candidate did not meet. If the candidate is recertified, the effective date of recertification will be the
third anniversary of the candidates previous certification or recertification.
Recertification Notes:
1. IT Specialist professionals who certified under the old structure will map the old discipline, specialty and
roles to the new focuses areas. See the mapping in Appendix F.
2. IT Specialists who obtain level two certification do not have to complete recertification for level one. IT
Specialists who obtain Senior IT Specialist certification do not have to complete recertification for level two
certification.
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6 Governance
6.1 Commonly Used Terms
Term
Definition
Certification Review Board
The group of experienced certified IT Specialists professionals that
(CRB)
serve as the programs peer review and quality assurance function.
Technical Focus Area
Subject matter experts from the geographies whose primary function is
Management Team
to present the geography boards views to the WW Leader.
Technical Focus Area
SME in a Technical Focus and Specialty Area.
Subject Matter Expert

Line Manager
Line Manager is used in this document to refer to the person

responsible for providing direct HR guidance to the employee,
including career and professional development. Typically, this will be
the candidates BluePages manager. The person performing this
function for the candidate will vary by organization.
Mentor
Person who provides career or qualification guidance to the

certification candidate (protg).
IT Specialist Program
IT Specialist Program Leader is used in this document to denote the
Leader
person closest to the candidate who represents and leads the IT

Specialist Programs business. This may be the Geography IT
Specialist Program Leader or the Regional IT Specialist Program
Leader.
Programs Office
Programs Office is used in this document to refer to the team that is

responsible for the administration of the process, and that provides
support to the Program Leader.
Qualification Review
Boards comprise experienced certified professionals that serve as the
Boards
programs peer review and quality assurance function. Boards are held
at prescribed intervals depending on the region or country certification
volume.
Note: Terms used by The Open Group can be found in Appendix J Glossary.
6.2 Program Structure and Governance

The WW IT Specialist Executive, WW IT Specialist Leader and Geography IT Specialist Leaders are vetted
19
from a pool of qualified candidates; individuals have demonstrated sustained performance and
professionalism and are certified as IT Specialists. Candidates will have knowledge of the program, IT
Specialist career development, IBM and the business units within IBM. Candidates will also be familiar with
the program, boards, and program processes. Current position holders mentor and provide skills transfer
and transitioning for Incoming appointees. There is no required education for these roles. All roles, as a part
of training, are expected to read the WW nomination guide, familiarize themselves with the certification
application; review the annual program update pod casts and understands the program structure. In addition,
the board members should review, understand and act according to the board member training guide.
1. The WW Executive is an executive whose primary responsibility is to represent the IT Specialists in front
of corporate executives. The executives responsibilities are to:
Lead the common definition and consistent worldwide implementation of the program
Ensure that strategy and direction meets IBM business needs
Approves the selections of the WW IT Specialist Program Leader and the Geography IT Specialist
Leaders that will support IBMs program.
2. The IT Specialist Advisory Board is a leadership team. Its job is to:
Sponsor program deployment in their respective organizations
Facilitate communications and implementation through formal deployment channels.
3. The WW IT Specialist Leaders function is to:
Act as an operational agent of the WW Executive
Manage worldwide issues, ongoing professional development, concerns and policies of IT

Specialists
Is responsible for the effective oversight and quality of the yearly internal audit of Qualification
Procedures (one per Geography) and other quality related documents.
4. The Geography IT Specialist Leaders are representatives of their geographies. The geographies are
composed of multiple regions and countries within that geography. The leaders for the regions and countries
all report to the Geography IT Specialist Leader:
Manage issues, ongoing professional development, concerns and policies concerning IT Specialists
within various IBM geographies
Manage geography IT Specialist Certification Review Boards. Experience certified professionals

comprise the boards and serve as a peer review and quality assurance function.
Implement the policies defined by the WW IT Specialist Leader.
Implement any corrective actions identified through the internal audit
Review and verify IT Specialist education, skill, experience, and knowledge levels, and help to
20
ensure worldwide consistency and maintenance of program standards. They also play an active role
in the IT Specialist program change management.
Note: In some geographies, the Geography IT Specialist Leader has a dual role and
assumes the responsibilities of the Regional IT Specialist Leader.
Respond to request for board members to support The open Group ITSC
5. The Regional IT Specialist Leaders are representatives of their regions and report to geography IT
Specialist leader. The regional IT Specialist leader:
Manage issues, ongoing professional development, concerns and policies concerning IT Specialists
within the region.
Manage regional IT Specialist Certification Review Boards. These boards comprise experienced
certified professionals that serve as the peer review and quality assurance function. This includes
owning a process to notify candidates of their certification status and notifying candidates six months
prior to recertification dates.
Implement the policies defined by the WW IT Specialist Leader.
Implement any corrective actions identified through the internal audit
Manage the certification operations for the region and ensure worldwide consistency.
Tracks the status of the steps outlined for level one certification, level two certification, recertification
and senior certification.
6. The Board Chair runs the consensus meeting. The Chair of the Certification Board, who may, or may not,
be one of the three interviewing members shall always have the following duties and responsibilities:
To facilitate meeting(s), making appropriate introductions and explanations to Candidate IT
Specialists of the process and general management of the work of the Certification Board
To monitor the objectivity of other Certification Board members and to draw to their attention
any inappropriate subjectivity or prejudice
To draft the Certification Board report or delegate this task to a named individual and authorize
the report
To take full responsibility for the content of the report whether or not he or she drafted it
To report to the WW IT Specialists Leader for the conduct of the Certification Board
To act as single point of contact for the Certification Board to the WW IT Specialist Leader
7. The Geography Board Members are a conglomerate of ad-honorem members of the IT Specialist
program, who provide:
Review cycle for next certification guide and package

21
Professional support to the IT Specialist program initiatives
Individual geography/region initiatives to enable professional growth
Support for The Open Group ITSC in accordance to The Open Group Policies.
Each geography and associated regions maintain a list of the board members. They are called on for
participation based on the volume of candidates. These board members are also available to other
geographies based on volume and needs. Geography board members also participate in worldwide boards,
which are periodically run as an audit.
Board members must be objective and avoid a conflict of interest. Board members should excuse
themselves from interviewing a candidate if they have a close working relationship with the candidate, are in
the same management chain or have been actively mentoring the candidate or any other situation, which
may impact their objectivity.
8. The WW IT Specialist Technical Focus Area Management Teams is a composition of subject matter
experts from the geographies whose primary function is to present the geography boards views to the WW
Leader. This end-to-end organizational and governance model ensures that IBMs worldwide IT Specialist
processes, practices, tools and techniques are implemented and integrated effectively at the business unit
and geography levels.
6.2.1 WW IT Specialist Program Governance

The WW IT Specialist Executive and Leader are responsible for the worldwide effective oversight and quality
of the program. The program is managed through a hierarchical structure of IT Specialist Geography IT
Specialist Leaders that report through the WW IT Specialist Leader to WW IT Specialist Executive. The
Geography IT Specialist Leaders manages the day-to day operations in the Geography. The WW IT
Specialist Leader oversees these operations through:
Regular communication with IT Specialist Geography IT Specialist Leaders,
Review of status reporting on the outcome of Certification Review Boards - CRBs,
Review of level one and level two certification packages to ensure compliance,
Audit of certification board meetings
Resolution of escalations is maintained at the WW IT Specialist program level.
6.2.2 IT Specialist Program Audit

The WW IT Specialist leader conducts an annual internal audit program to determine whether the
certification program is being operated in accordance with its documented procedures and processes to
ensure that the program is repeatable, reproducible and objective across all geographies. This includes a
process to track the completion of any agreed corrective action.
The WW IT Specialist leader performs a yearly internal audit of Qualification Procedures (one per
Geography) and other quality related documents. The WW IT Specialist leader reviews at least seven (7)
22
packages per geography. The packages should include one from each client focus area and one from each
technical focus area and at least one package form a declined candidate.
The audit includes a review of, but limited to:
Certification Statistics (certified, recertified and declined)
Certification Communications (decline letters)
Board Member List (currency, technical focus areas, and client focus areas
represented)
Business Unit Representation
IT Plus Statistics (certified, recertified and declined; board member representation)
Geographies out of compliance have 30 days to prepare a plan to come into compliance. The WW IT
Specialist Executive reviews and must agree to the plan. The WW IT Specialist Leader follows up monthly
with the Geography IT Specialist Leader. When the WW IT Specialist Leader and the Geography IT
Specialist Leader feel compliance is met, they present to the WW IT Specialist Executive. The WW
Profession Execute approves the compliance. Geographies who do not met compliance within a 12-month
time frame are suspended from conducting the program.
6.3 IT Specialist
Specialist Certification Process - Operations
6.3.1 Certification Review Interviews
The three CRB interviews take place and a consensus meeting is held.
6.3.2 Notification
The candidate is notified by the IT Specialist Leader and advised whether their certification has been
approved or declined.
If a candidate is accepted, the program office informs the candidate and their manager confirming their
successful certification. A certificate is sent to the candidate and Human Resource records are updated with
the certification status.
If a candidate is declined, a decline letter is sent to the candidate and their manager. The decline letter
contains details about the specific certification criteria that were not met and recommendations to implement
before returning to the CRB.
6.3.3 Escalation Process
23
If there is strong disagreement with any qualification decision made (e.g. undisputable proof of bias by a
board member against the candidate), the escalation process shown below will be used for resolution.
Please note, since management must support the nomination going forward, disagreement with the board's
assessment is not grounds for an escalation.
1. The candidate and his/her immediate manager must both agree to escalation. Disagreement with the
boards decision is not grounds for escalation.
2. The manager notifies the CRB IT Specialist Leader requesting that the board revisit the outcome.
Note: All communications must be in writing or confirmed in writing, for audit purposes. The CRB Leader
may be a Regional IT Specialist Leader. In others, it may be the Geography IT Specialist Leader. In all
situations, the Geography IT Specialist Leader should be notified and involved in the escalation process as
needed.
3. The CRB IT Specialist Leader acknowledges the escalation request to the manager and candidate then
conducts and completes his/her own investigation which may include, but limited to review of the board
feedback, interview comments, criteria deemed not met, and suggestions for improvement.
Note: The leader of the investigation team shall be the CRB IT Specialist Leader unless there is a conflict of
interest, in which case it shall be an independent board member or 3rd party as appointed by the CRB IT
Specialist Leader.
4. The CRB IT Specialist Leader contacts the candidates manager within 2 weeks of the escalation to
present a decision. The CRB IT Specialist Leader may invite others to the call but should be knowledgeable
enough of the situation to present and discuss the findings to the manager.
If, after discussion, the manager accepts the escalation outcome, the case is considered closed and this
process ends. The manager communicates the outcome to the candidate and works with him/her to develop
an action plan supporting the board recommendations.
If, after discussion, the manager disagrees with the outcome, the CRB IT Specialist Leader and the
Geography IT Specialist Leader if not the CRB IT Specialist Leader notifies the WW IT Specialist Leader of
the escalation and engages him/her in the process. The CRB IT Specialist Leader will remain involved in all
subsequent steps and responsible for bringing the escalation to a close, unless agreed by both the CRB IT
Specialist Leader and the WW IT Specialist Leader that doing so would be inappropriate. In this case the
WW IT Specialist Leader or their delegate will be responsible for bringing the escalation to a close. Go to
Step 5.
5. The WW IT Specialist Leader contacts the manager to acknowledge the continued escalation and
completes his/her own investigation.
6. The WW IT Specialist Leader contacts the manager with his/her decision.
If, after discussion, the manager accepts, the escalation is closed at this second level.
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If, after discussion, the manager disagrees with the WW IT Specialist Leaders decision the WW IT Specialist
Leader notifies the WW IT Specialist Executive of the escalation and engages him/her in the process. Go to
step 7.
7. The WW IT Specialist Executive contacts the manager to acknowledge the continued escalation and
completes his/her own investigation.
8. The WW IT Specialist Executive contacts the manager with his/her decision, which will be considered the
final position.
The escalation is closed at this third and final level
6.3.4 Maintaining Active Certification

Certified IT Specialists are required to recertify every three years. The period begins on the date of the
candidates current certification or recertification, and repeats every 36 months thereafter.
Recertification ensures that the IT Specialist professional in IBM is:
Obtaining the most current knowledge
Applying new techniques and technology where appropriate
Contributing to the IT Specialist program on an ongoing basis
Recertification is required in order to continue as an IT Specialist professional and to maintain the use of the
IT Specialist job description and titles. In order for a candidate to maintain a certified status, the candidate
must recertify within the time limits stated. If the candidate does not meet the recertification or time
requirements, the IT Specialist Leader responsible for that CRB will notify the Human Resources contact for
that region and the professionals management that the candidate no longer meets the requirements of the
program. The candidate will no longer be considered certified. The WW IT Specialist Leader will be notified.
IBM uses its recertification program to ensure that certified specialists remain in conformity with its
conformance requirements.
6.4 Certification Review Board Responsibilities

6.4.1 Before the Board Meeting
Certification Review Board members should review the certification criteria in this guide. Each certification
level has a documented set of requirements that must be met by candidates in order to attain their
certification at that level. The Board member role is to be familiar with those requirements and assess
candidates against those requirements. Reading the package and determining what questions to ask to
validate the candidates claim accomplish certification. The CRB member also needs to ask questions that
will cover any gaps in the written package. New CRB members should complete IT Specialist CRB training
before being scheduled to interview candidates.
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6.4.1.1 Restriction List

For the purpose of objectivity, every effort will be made to avoid candidate interviews and evaluation by the
candidate's past or present management or peers. Specifically, Certification Review Board members should
declare themselves ineligible to interview a candidate when the Board member is or has been one of the
following:
The candidate's manager, PDM (professional development manager), principal, business leader,
team leader or engagement manager,
A peer, having worked directly with the candidate within the same organization or on the same
project or engagement, or
A close personal or professional associate of the candidate.
Each Board member may use their own discretion in choosing to expand their list of ineligibles beyond the
guidelines.
6.4.2 The Interview

Interviews should be conducted in a professional and courteous manner. The questions the CRB members
pose to the candidate should be specific and criteria-based.
The CRB interviewer should take notes on each candidate to assist in supporting the vote to certify or
decline certification. These notes will help during the consensus meeting. Should the interviewing peers
vote to decline a candidate; the notes will become input to the candidate's decline letter. Decline letters are
based on peer assessment and observations.
The interviewer should not directly discuss, reveal or imply his/hers assessment of a candidate, or his/her
potential vote to certify or decline their certification.
Interview time should be used for the candidate and their quest for certification only.
On completion of the interview, CRB interviewers should provide program staff with the preliminary vote for
each candidate.
6.4.3 The Consensus Meeting

Certification Review Board consensus meetings are conducted on a scheduled basis. CRB members should
not be involved in discussions related to candidates on their "restricted list". Consensus meeting discussions
and results are "CRB Confidential". CRB member discussions of candidates should be limited to each
candidate's designated discussion period in the CRB consensus meeting.
During the consensus meeting, the three CRB Members may be asked to discuss their votes. Three yes
votes indicate a candidate is certified. A CRB discussion will occur If there is not unanimous agreement that
the candidate should be certified. During this time the three interviewing CRB members will discuss what
specific ITSC requirements were not met. After the discussion the three interviewing CRB board members
26
will be asked to vote a second time. At that time, if the candidate receives a majority (two yeses) vote, he/she
will be certified. If the candidate does not receive a majority (two yeses) vote, he/she will be declined. It is the
board managers responsibility to document the criteria not met.
The board manager is responsible for the CRB meeting:
Calls the CRB meeting to order
Manages the CRB meeting to ensure the integrity of the ITSC process is met.
Mediates the discussion keeping focus on certification criteria
Clarifies any question concerning the criteria
Ensures that there is consensus (at least two interviewing Board members) on each specific criterion
the candidate is being declined on
Documents the outcome of the voting
6.4.4 Decline Process

The IT Specialist Leader receives the documentation from the CRB members about the candidates they
voted to decline certification. The documentation should include the CRB members assessment and
observations of the candidate's nomination package and interview. The documentation should provide
developmental recommendations to assist the candidate in attaining certification in the future. The
nomination package review and interview notes are critical assets. A "declined" letter with a summary of
observations and recommendations will be prepared from the CRB members notes and comments.
The IT Specialist Leader receives the decline recommendations, reviews the content and once approved
forwards the information to the program office for its incorporation into formal decline letter. The decline letter
is then sent to the candidate and his/her manager.
6.5 Certification Review Board Membership

CRB membership nominations may occur at the certification consensus meeting or during the candidates
recertification. A potential IT Specialist CRB member nominee must:
Be a certified IT Specialist
Be actively engaged in the activities of the IT Specialist program as his/her responsibility
Be a role model whose IT Specialist capabilities, skills and experience exemplify those articulated
by the IT Specialist certification criteria
A successful certification candidate who receives three yes votes can be nominated to the CRB by one or
more of the candidates three reviewers. All of the candidates reviewers must concur with the nomination.
There is no discussion. The candidate is not nominated to the board if all three reviewers do not concur with
27
the nomination.
The Geography IT Specialist Leader then reviews each nomination and makes the final decision for the
nominated candidate to become a board member.
Where situations warrant, and new board members are required out of the normal CRB cycle, the
Geography IT Specialist Leader can nominate board members. The Geography IT Specialist Leader polls
the current board member population, and if any objections are found, the candidate does not become a
board member.
Based on business needs, career changes and change in employee status, a CRB member may no longer
actively participate in the certification review process. CRB members are added to the Board as needed to
maintain a sufficient number of members to satisfy the certification requirements.
6.6 Process Guidelines

6.6.1 Inactive Status
Certified professionals may go into inactive status when not fulfilling the requirements for recertification. An
example of this situation may be the candidate has taken an extended leave of absence from IBM.
Certified professionals request inactive status by sending an email to the IT Specialist Geography Leader for
the professional's region. The IT Specialist program records should include the request and the decision of
the IT Specialist profession leader.
The request should include:
Name:
First Line manager:
Reason for requesting inactive status:
Description of assignment while on inactive status (no more than one paragraph):
Effective Date:
Projected date of return:
6.6.2 Certified IT Specialist Returning to IBM

The Geography IT Specialist Leader will decide whether a certified IT Specialist maintains certification status
if the IT Specialist left IBM and then returned to IBM. There are a number of factors that the Geography IT
Specialist Leader should take into consideration when making this decision:
Was this person still practicing in an IT Specialist like role while away from IBM?
Was this person practicing in similar areas to the IBM Technical Focus area/specialty area he/she
certified in?
The length of time away from IBM. For example, the person may have been away for three years or
more since his/her last certification or recertification.
28
External affiliation requirements (e.g. The Open Group, IEEE).
6.6.3 Extensions
The Geography IT Specialist Leader will be responsible for granting recertification extensions based on
personal or business pressures affecting the certified IT Specialists ability to recertify.
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7 Appendix A Level Descriptions

7.1 Capabilities
The IT Specialist capability level requirements vary by the candidates experience and the qualification level
chosen.
Mastered (3) The candidate has demonstrated comprehensive, in-depth knowledge of the capability and
extensive successful applications of the skill on engagements or projects. The candidate is capable of
mentoring, teaching and leading the application of this skill and can function as a subject matter expert.
Applied (2) The candidate has demonstrated repeated successful application of the capability on
engagements or projects.
Acquired (1) The candidate has gained knowledge of the capability through formal or informal education,
training, mentoring, experiences or other skill development activities. The candidate has limited, if any,
application of the skill on any engagement or project.
Mandatory These are requirements the candidate must fulfill.
30
8 Appendix
Appendix B IT Specialist Certification & Development Criteria
8.1 Certification Requirements
Important: Your Certification Package represents you, in both content and quality of presentation.
It demonstrates your ability to follow instructions and produce a deliverable of the quality, which
would be expected by clients. If the package is incomplete, poorly organized, or lacking information,
it will reflect badly on you and on your ability to produce a quality deliverable.
Poorly presented packages may be rejected.
The impression you create must be consistent with what you are seeking.
You should use simple and short sentences. Be clear and concise.
Your aim should be to effectively demonstrate that you meet the criteria for Qualification.
The certification package includes:
Experience
Awards
Product Certifications
Giveback
Engagement Profiles
Justification for Core Capabilities
Justifications for Client Focus Capabilities
Justifications for Technical Focus Specialty Capabilities
8.1.1 Experience
Capability
EX1
IT Specialist Certification Level One

IT Specialist Certification Level Two
(formerly advisory accreditation)
IBM Employee
Experience - Must
have been an IBM
employee for one
Mandatory
Mandatory
Mandatory
Mandatory
year.
TOGER
EX2
Approval of
Immediate Manager
TOGER
31
Capability
EX3
Training in Technical
Focus Area and
Specialty Area
EX4
Experience in the IT
Industry
IT Specialist Certification Level One

IT Specialist Certification Level Two
(formerly advisory accreditation)
Mandatory
Mandatory
Extensive training by taking formal
Extensive training by taking formal
technical classes specific to the technical
technical classes specific to the technical
focus and specialty areas. An expected
focus and specialty areas. An expected
average would be approximately 30 hours
per year.
per year.
Training in the following skills areas:
Training in the following skills areas:
People, Business, Project Management
People, Business, Project Management
and Architectures.
and Architectures.
Extensive training by taking formal classes
Extensive training by taking formal classes
specific to the skill areas. An expected
specific to the skill areas. An expected
per year in any of the listed skill areas.
per year in any of the listed skill areas.
Guideline
Guideline
Candidates should have sufficient
Candidates should have sufficient
experience in the IT Industry to demonstrate experience in the IT Industry to

repeated success in meeting the Core
demonstrate repeated success in meeting
Foundation Skills. Typically this requires 5
the Core Foundation Skills. Typically this
years of work experience in IT in last 8
requires 8 years of work experience in IT in
years (excluding time spent under tuition)
last 12 years (excluding time spent under
Experience cited in a Certification Package
tuition)
to demonstrate each of the Core
Experience cited in a Certification Package
Foundation Skills should all be within the
to demonstrate each of the Core
last 8 years and at least one example
Foundation Skills should all be within the
should be from the last 3
last 8 years and at least one example

should be from the last 3 years.
8.1.2 Awards
List significant awards you have received from IBM and from other companies.
8.1.3 Product Certifications

List your product certifications. These are industry-recognized validations of your technical knowledge via
the use of Product or Technical Skills Certification Testing.
8.1.4 Giveback
Giveback is a tangible, measurable business contribution performed in addition to your primary job mission.
The contribution must involve your professional skills, and can be to the IT Specialist professions community,
32
to a major business unit, or even to special corporate initiatives, all of which require practitioner skills to
perform.
Giveback Requirements
Level One Certification (formerly

advisory accreditation)
Level Two Certification
2 areas
3 areas
Depending on your certification level,

you must participate in one or more of
One area must be mentoring
the areas defined in the sections

below
8.1.4.1 Instruction
Instruction is training. Examples include: teaching or training for sales or services business and Pre or post
sales product training for clients
8.1.4.2 Mentoring
Mentoring is guiding others in experiences, which develop and enhance their professional skills. All
mentoring activities should have plans, objectives and timeframes.
8.1.4.3 Certification
Participating in IT Specialist certification boards, and otherwise contributing to the quality, effectiveness and
vitality of the IT Specialist certification process, for example, by participating in task forces to review and
recommend updates to certification processes and requirements. Participation on the IT Specialist
certification board is by nomination only.
8.1.4.4 Specialized Chair Assignments
Examples of chair assignments include:
Critical skill programs,
Curriculum development,
Re-engineering projects, Task forces, Leadership councils, or Strategy development projects,
Participation as a technical leader/organizer in a profession-related conference, such as SHARE, the

TLE, Software University, WIT, etc.,
Active participation in IBM forums, Academy-related projects, and advisory councils.
8.1.4.5 Contribution to IBMs intellectual capital on IT SpecialistSpecialist-related topics

This may include contributions to an intellectual capital management system (e.g. ICM, Xpertise Library,
KnowledgeView, etc.) and substantial participation in competency networks related to the IT Specialists,
such as serving as a Knowledge Expert.
8.1.4.6 Publishing & Patents
Publishing articles or books internally or externally, (includes Redbooks, Redpieces and Systems Journal
articles) on topics related to IT Specialists or a technical focus area (competency), or obtaining a patent (IBM
Patent filed Status or Patent Issued Status) related to Specialists or a technical focus area.
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9 Appendix C - Core Capabilities

The following table defines the Core capabilities for IT Specialist Certification Program. Candidates must be
able to document that they have demonstrated these capabilities at the required level (or higher) repeatedly
and successfully.
Ref
CC1
Capability
Written Communication Demonstrate good written communications,
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied
Mastered
Applied
Mastered
Applied
Mastered
Applied
Mastered
Acquired
Mastered
including the use of proper grammar, spelling, document organization,

clarity, and use of content appropriate for the audience.
CC2
Oral Communication - Demonstrate good verbal communications,

including strong eye contact (where culturally appropriate),
responsiveness to questions, ability to stay on subject, use of good
feedback, and follow-up questions, etc., so that effective two-way
communications is demonstrated.
CC3
Setting Technical Direction - Given a scope of work to be

accomplished, plan the work, form a team to perform the work, and
guide the team in performing the work to completion.
CC4
Negotiate Equitable Solutions - Experience with conflict resolution.

Mediate opposing viewpoints and negotiate equitable solutions to
ensure successful and stable outcomes.
CC5
Manage Specific
Specific Elements of an IT Project Plan - Given a project
plan, identify those elements of the plan that put the integrity of the
stream specific elements at risk and help the client and or project
manager by managing those elements so that the project can be
successfully completed.
CC6
Team Leadership Has the capability of leading a team
Applied
Mastered
CC7
Understand Business Aspects - Understand the stakeholders
Applied
Mastered
Applied
Mastered
business needs and how they relate to the Candidates Stream.

CC8
Provide Solution Input to Winning Bids - Create the stream/technical

focus area related solution within winning bids, proposals or contract
extensions.
34
Ref
CC9
Capability
Project Management Formal training and/or experience performing
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied
Applied
Acquired
Acquired
Applied
Mastered
Applied
Mastered
Applied
Mastered
Applied
Mastered
Acquired
Applied
Applied
Mastered
project management activities on engagements. The candidate is

expected to have experience with:
Creating project plan, task tracking, capturing actuals, managing risk,
managing teams, and management reporting.
CC10
SOA - Understanding of SOA through formal or informal education,

training, mentoring, experiences or other skill development activities
and has limited, if any, application of the skill on any engagement or
project.
TOGER
CC11
IBM - Understanding of IBMs business structure. A keen

understanding of the offerings of your business unit as well as a
cursory understanding of the services and products available in other
areas of the company.
TOGER
CC12
Develop Solution - Given one or more business or technical

requirements, create the structures of a solution that can be validated
to meet those requirements
CC13
Problem Analysis and Resolution Demonstrate the ability to perform

logical analysis and problem solving.
CC14
Personal Impact Awareness Understand the relationship of the

personal contribution to the context of the overall objective of the
project or engagement -
CC15
Understand Interface to Architecture - Understand the relationship of

the personal contribution to the context of the enterprise or project
architecture.
CC16
Develop Reuse Mindset - Uses, when possible, already developed

objects and materials
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10 Appendix D - Engagement Profiles

An Engagement Profile is a coherent written description of a project or technical engagement that provides
Candidates with the opportunity to show how they perform as an IT Specialist within their Client and
Technical Focus Areas, and enables a Certification Board to understand and question Candidates thought
processes and decisions.
Candidates must provide three (3) Experience Profiles (for Level 2 certification), or two (2) Experience
Profiles (for Level 1 certification) describing projects undertaken within the five (5) years preceding an
application, at least two of which must have been undertaken in the last three (3) years. Projects over two (2)
years long may be used for multiple Experience Profiles under either of the following conditions:
The project had clearly-defined work efforts which took place in parallel, each with their own solution
development and design activities and their own deliverables.
The project had clearly-defined phases that were executed in succession, each with its own solution
development and design activities and deliverables. Note that a second project phase that constructs
and implements the solution developed by the first phase does not meet this requirement.
Each profiled project entity must meet all of the Experience Profile criteria defined in the table below.
Each Experience Profile must include:
A concise summary of the client need
A concise description of the project
The Candidates period of involvement
Note: For re-certification, project profiles are optional if the candidate has not changed technical or client
focus. If the candidate has changed client or technical focus, an engagement profile must be provided.
Engagement Profile Requirements
Certification Certification
Level One
Level Two
1
1. The project profile should reflect the candidates client focus and technical focus.
project
project
2. The business problem should be stated in terms of the candidates contribution to
profile
profiles
Each profile should be between 3 5 pages.
the solution,
3. The candidate should describe the components of the solution key to the critical
(2 within last
5 years)
success of the engagement

4. The candidate should describe the alternatives considered on the engagement,
5. The candidate should describe the challenges he/she faced on the engagement?
6. The candidate should describe what was learned from the engagement that has
been taken forward on subsequent engagements.
7. The candidate should describe what was innovated or reused on the engagement
and why.
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Business Problem
Problem - Address the following topics:
Describe the nature of the engagement in terms of the business problem it addressed/solved and how it related
to the client/organization's business and mission.
(Services / Support) Define the application and the expected benefits to the client from its successful
implementation.
OR
(Sales) Describe the contractual nature of the engagement, as applicable. Include non-standard terms and
conditions and pricing basis (e.g. fixed price). If this was an internal engagement, what measurable objective
were you charged with achieving?
Describe the scope and complexity of the problem in terms of phases of development or in terms of size
(number of processes, client environment, number of modules, etc.).
Describe your relationship and communications with client management.
Solution - Address each of the following topics:

Briefly describe the solution you implemented, deliverables prepared, technology used, etc.
Describe your role in the engagement and your specific tasks, responsibilities, and accomplishments; including
your role in planning the effort, tracking progress and reporting to the IBM and Client project management. You
should be able to show how you performed as a Technical Lead IT Specialist in the development,
implementation and/or management of a major project or subsystem.
Summarize the key technical decisions you made, the reasons for the decisions, and the alternatives that were
considered.
Describe the major problems or obstacles you encountered, and the actions you took to overcome them.
Project Results - Assess the overall success or failure of the project from the standpoint of:
Client Satisfaction, Quality of deliverables and Performance of the IBM team
Lessons Learned - Address each of the following topics::

What might you have done differently on this project?
What lessons did you learn from this experience?
How did this change your behavior or decisions on subsequent engagements? Consider the entire solution
lifecycle from strategy, design, implementation and management through to completion.
37
11 Appendix E
E Client Focus Capabilities
11.1 Technical Services Capabilities
Ref:
CFSer1
Capability
Provide advice to the client on a range of applications and
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
products, which may be employed in the solution.

The Candidate should be able to explain current

trends in their technical or client focus areas to their
clients and explain the potential impact on their
business.
The candidate will apply and /or implement Business

Unit, Industry and /or Sector strategy in providing
advice to clients.
CFSer2
Assess client needs, requirements, preferences and

expectations.
CFSer3
Given a large and/or complex engagement, define and

prepare partial or complete solutions and or proposals and
plans that successfully meet or exceed client needs and
expectations.
CFSer4
Assure solution viability that meets the client's requirements.

(Appropriateness of the solution in the client context).
CFSer5
Develops plans that are comprehensive, realistic and

effective.
38
11.2 Technical Sales Capabilities

Ref:
CFSal1
Capability
Provide advice to the client on a range of applications and
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
products, which may be employed in the solution.

CFSal2
Use a documented sales method (for example, TeAMethod,

Solution Selling Method (SSM), Software Account Planning
(SWAP))
CFSal3
Lead technical evaluations and demonstrations (e.g. proof of

concepts, feasibility studies, benchmarks or pilots).
CFSal4
Assure initial solution viability that meets the client's

requirements. (e.g. Quality Assurance, Systems Assurance,
Risk Assessment).
CFSal5
Given a set of client priorities and constraints, develop a

competitive analysis and business justification.
CFSal6
Create client deliverables (e.g. by creating scenarios, custom

demonstrations such as prototypes or user interfaces, or
custom presentations that represent vendor products and
solutions).
11.3 Technical Support Capabilities

Ref:
CFSup1
Capability
Advise and guide the client on technical decisions for the use
of vendor products, services and solutions (trusted technical
advisor). Examples include:
Identify problems related to installation, update,
configuration, operations or performance
Provide subject matter expertise on solution design
Provide advice on potential resolutions and their
implementation
39
Ref:
CFSup2
Capability
Provide problem management. Examples include:
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Apply problem solving skills

Assess risk and severity
Locate and allocate resources as necessary
Involve Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to solve the
problems
Implement problem resolution (install, test and run patches,
upgrades)
CFSup3
Provide technical leadership. For example, leading reviews of

impact analysis and fitness for purpose.
CFSup4
Create client deliverables. Examples include:

Create scenarios and custom demonstrations (e.g.
Prototypes, user interface)
Develop custom presentation that represents vendors
products, services and solutions
CFSup5
Manage change with significant technical scope or business

impact. Examples include:
Ensure all changes are authorized and reviewed for their
potential impact
Give personal attention to high priority/emergency change
processing
Ensure all changes are tracked and that history is available.
Track and authorize changes using appropriate tools
Allow emergency changes to be made by authorized
personnel
Have a back out and recovery plan in place for major
changes
Define go, no-go decision points.
40
Ref:
CFSup6
Capability
Identify sales opportunities by recognizing and articulating
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
potential new business opportunities related to clients or

client relationships.
CFSup7
Given a non-trivial client problem, propose a successful

solution or part solution within the specialty.
41
12 Appendix F - Technical Focus Capabilities

The IT Specialist selects one of three technical focus areas for qualification: Systems & Infrastructure,
Software, and Business Integration Solutions.
Software
Business Integration Services
Storage Systems
Data Integration
Networking Systems
Products
Systems Management
Business Analysis
Server Systems
Middleware
Business Information Management
Cross Systems **
Data Management
Testing
Business Partner Technical
Content Management
Enablement** +
Portals & Collaboration

ISV Software
**Available for Certification Level

Two Only
+Not eligible for The Open Group
Level Two Certification
12.1 Systems & Infrastructure

12.1.1 Storage Systems
Systems
Ref:
SS1
Capability
Apply knowledge of competing vendor storage systems, and
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
what differentiates them, to solving a client's business

problem.
SS2
Configure complex storage systems for optimum performance

against client needs.
SS3
Perform storage conversions from one or more vendor

products to another.
SS4
Integrate storage systems from more than one vendor or

technology.
SS5
Given a complex storage environment, select and apply the

appropriate techniques such as synchronous and or
asynchronous mirroring, or point in time copy for online
42
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
backup and recovery.

SS6
Perform capacity planning including performance analysis and

preparation of documented recommendations.
SS7
Advise or support client on backup and recovery procedures

for storage systems.
12.1.2 Networking Systems

Ref:
Net1
Capability
Use networking problem determination skills to assess clients

network problems
Net2
Understand and apply High Availability networking principles

to restore clients' networks to normal levels of availability and
performance, and recommend actions to prevent recurrence
of problems
Net3
Understand three or more of the following technologies:

IPSec, L2TP, PPTP, Public/Private keys, SSL or Virtual
Private Networks (VPNs), and apply that knowledge in the
technology selection, design and implementation of clients'
networks.
Net4
According to the Client Focus Area, either design, plan the

installation, implement, and network manage WANs or LANs,
or Troubleshoot LAN/WAN problems in multiple environments
with network management experience on at least one
environment.
Net5
Design and implement networking components using APIs

such as CPI-C, sockets, or equivalent
Net6
Use appropriate tools to tune networks for optimum

performance to meet client needs
Net7
According to the Client Focus Area, either customize network

management tools to build a proactive solution for network
performance and health trending, with violation notification for
43
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
problem identification or Troubleshoot networks using

problem determination tools such as network sniffers etc
Net8
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on network

architectures including the naming and addressing methods,
data formats, and protocols of the architecture such as
TCP/IP, Frame Relay, ATM, OC-x or DS-x transport, and
routing protocols such as RIP, BGP, OSPF.
Net9
Advise or support clients (internal or external) in network

capacity planning, performance analysis and preparation of
documented results (WAN, LAN or Client-Server end to end)
Net10
Advise or support clients (internal or external) in at least one

of the following IP Convergence Applications: VoIP, Unified
Messaging, Real-time Collaboration and IPTV
12.1.3 Systems Management

Ref:
SM1
Capability
Plan, implement and customize systems management

functions in a client IT organization.
SM2
Use system management tools such as those from CA, HP

and IBM, to support the systems management functions listed
in SM6. Implement and configure tools for operational
control, growth, planning, resiliency, and recoverability.
SM3
Use a method such as ITIL, ITPM, BSP or any other system

of best practices or mixture thereof, to support and configure
the systems management functions.
SM4
Create a strategy, which allows the systems management

functions to be open and flexible to future needs and changes
in either business or technological directions.
SM5
Define and document all operation functions and all

requirements for the recovery of any component. Maintain
the documentation and regularly validate recoverability
44
Ref:
SM6
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on System
Two (2) for
Three (3) for
Management Components:
five
one
Configuration Management
Components,
component
General for
and Two (2)
remainder
for the
Change Management
remainder
Release Management
Incident Management
Problem Management
Availability Management
Asset Management
Service Continuity
Capacity Management
Service Level Management
Security Management
SM7
Grow and improve the management functions established in
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
support of the clients business as it reacts to changes in

business or technology.
12.1.4 Server Systems

System i i5/OS, Linux, AIX 5L, Windows
System p Power-based Unix/Linux servers
System x x86 servers
System z Mainframe
OEM Sun, HP
Ref:
Ser1
Capability
Given a client business problem, select the appropriate server

architecture and instance to meet client requirements.
Example server architectures are those from the major server
families of IBM, HP, Sun, etc.
45
Ref:
Ser2
Capability
Given a customer requirement integrate new capability with
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
existing systems and or solutions. Examples might include

integration of: web server firewall authentication servers
application server data base servers messaging systems
backend data extraction to data warehouse systems
Ser3
Configure server to operate efficiently in the client

environment. Show how a balanced system configuration was
achieved
(e.g. processors, memory, I/O & network
resources, disk, tape, switch fabric, I/O paths) and

appropriately sized for the workload to be run. Show how
sufficient backup and recovery capability for the requirements
of the workload was achieved.
Ser4
Advice or support clients (internal or external) in the selection

and deployment of the appropriate methods such as
incremental, image copy, mirroring, cross-site, failover and
disaster recovery strategies.
Ser5
Advise or support clients (internal or external) in the effective

use of mainstream system and/or operational management
tools to achieve availability and operational goals.
Ser6
Advise or support a client (internal or external) on server

consolidation, including sizing, configuration, planning, and
covering risk management, recovery implications, and
deployment options.
12.1.5 Cross Systems

This specialty is available for level two certification only.
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Level Two
CS1
Advise and support clients (internal or external) with several
Mastered (3)
heterogeneous server, operating system and storage systems

CS2
Design, present and propose Server, Operating System and
Mastered (3)
Storage Solutions with focus on cross system technologies.

46
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Level Two
CS3
Perform as a solution designer:
Mastered (3)
1. Analyze client business and IT challenges

2. Design a comprehensive solution integrating into the
clients environment
3. Checks reliability, scalability, and leverages the entire
IBM portfolio
CS4
Evaluate and adapt the sub-specialty area solutions to
Mastered (3)
different and complex environments.

CS5
Demonstrate sales, planning, and consulting skills in Servers
Two (2) in
and Storage products, covering both hardware and key
four areas,
system software elements.
one of which
Server Brands: BladeCenter, System i, p, x, z
1. Storage Brands:
Brands Disk, Tape
CS6
must be
storage
Demonstrate consultative skills in 3 of the solution areas listed
Two (2) in
below in multiple customer environments.
three
1. Server Virtualization technologies
Solution
Areas
2. Storage Virtualization technologies

3. Infrastructure Simplification and Consolidation
strategies
4. Middleware implementations as they relate to Server
and Storage products
5. Business Continuity, High Availability, and Disaster
Recovery
6. Cross Systems Disciplines (e.g. S Security,
Clustering, Network Connectivity, Database
Placement, Data Connectivity, or Systems
Management)
Examples must include analysis and design of cost-justified
solutions using common metrics e.g. TCO, TCA (Acquisition),
QoS (Quality of Service) and TTM/C (Time to Market
47
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Level Two
/Customer).
TOGER
12.1.6 Business Partner Enablement

This specialty is available for certification level two only. Not eligible for The Open Group Certification.
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Level Two
BPE1
Assist business partners architect, design, present and
Applied (2)
propose IBM solutions with focus on cross system and

software technologies.
BPE2
Define Technical Support Enablement Plan.
Applied (2)
BPE3
Develop or contributing technical expertise to business cases.
Applied (2)
BPE4
Transfer of skills from IBM to the business partner (or vice
Applied (2)
versa).
BPE5
Describe at least four of IBM's major architectural strategies
Applied (2)
(e.g. e-Business On Demand, IBM Software strategy, IBM

Systems Agenda, IBMs Linux strategy, Service-Oriented
architecture, J2EE, etc.).
BPE6
Describe the functionality of IBM and OEM hardware or
Applied (2)
software platforms and architectures (e.g. .NET, Oracle, BEA,

JBoss, LAMP, Tomcat, and SQL Server).
BPE7
Describe major strategic solutions or technologies (e.g. Grid
Applied (2)
computing, Autonomic Computing, Virtualization, Capacity

Upgrade on Demand, Infrastructure Simplification, Hosting /
Software-as-a-Service, Pervasive computing, Java, Linux,
System z/i/p/x servers)
BPE8
Position IBM strategies and technologies (both current and
Applied (2)
emerging) against alternatives.

BPE9
Propose segments of a total solution.
Applied (2)
BPE10
Conduct Systems Assurance or Quality Assurance.
Applied (2)
48
12.2 Software
The certification candidate in this Technical Focus Area must fulfill the following criteria in addition to the
criteria for the candidates specialty area.
The Software specialty areas are:
Application Development Products
Application Integration and Middleware
Data Management
Content Management
ISV Software
12.2.1 Application Development (AD) Products

IBM AD products include, but are not exclusive of the following, and are split into specialization areas:
Project and Portfolio
Portfolio Management: Rational Portfolio Manager (RPM), Rational Method Composer (RMC),
Rational Unified Process (RUP), Rational ProjectConsole and Rational RequisitePro;
Architecture Management: Rational RequisitePro, Rational Application Developer (RAD), Rational Software
Architect (RSA/RSM), Rational Rose, Rational Systems Developer (RS), WebSphere Business Modeler
(WBM), WebSphere Integration Developer (WID) and UML Modeling;
Quality Management: Rational ClearQuest, Rational Manual Tester (RMT), Rational Functional Tester (RFT),
Rational Performance Tester (RPT), Rational Test RealTime, and Rational Robot;
Change and Release Management: Rational ClearQuest, Rational ClearCase, and BuildForge.
Note: Certification candidates will have mastery skills in one or more of the categories listed above.
Ref:
ADP1
Capability
Understand the proper application of development
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
methodologies and the appropriate tools used in the software

development lifecycle. Be able to apply the different areas of
the methodology to the phases in the lifecycle and identify the
appropriate tool
ADP2
Demonstrate and articulate the value of the entire application

development lifecycle, including all of the areas involved and
how they are interrelated. Specifically understand and explain
the value of an integrated development lifecycle.
49
Ref:
ADP3
Capability
Given a client requirement and development environment,
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
select and install the appropriate development tool.

ADP4
Demonstrate knowledge of industry standards in the area of

specialization (i.e., UMA for PPM specialization, UML for ADC
specialization) to meet a customers development process
requirements.
ADP5
Identify requirements for configuration and customization in

order for the development tool to work optimally in the
identified development environment. This may include special
security needs, special process needs, distributed access
needs, or automation
ADP6
Support the full lifecycle development approach by integration

between your tool of specialization and the relevant tools in
other areas (i.e. between Requirements and Testing).
ADP7
Advise or support client (internal or external) Application

Development groups in best practices on following their
development methodology and in the proper way to
use/configure the development tools. This includes mentoring
on which tools should be use
12.2.2 Application Integration and Middleware

Ref:
AIM1
Capability
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on adapter

interfaces to provide system interconnectivity.
AIM2
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on data

interchange across disparate systems (e.g. XML, SOAP).
AIM3
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on application

integration methodologies and architectures such as SOA and
Web Services.
AIM4
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on program-toprogram interfaces across disparate systems (e.g. APPC,
50
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
DPL, and RPC).

AIM5
Given a set of client requirements, select and advise or

support on the installation and configuration of application
integration products that facilitate the enablement of SOA.
AIM6
Advise and support product configuration based on a

complete understanding of the client environment.
AIM7
Advise and support clients (internal or external) in determining

the need for logging, recovery, backup and demonstrate how
best to implement the appropriate tools and techniques to
meet these requirements.
AIM8
Advise and support clients (internal or external) on

appropriate deployment techniques and best practices to
ensure optimal performance and capability
AIM9
Advise and support customers on optimal solution

configurations to meet their requirements for performance and
capacity
AIM10
Advise and support on High Availability solutions covering

failover capability and redundancy techniques.
12.2.3 Data Management

Ref:
DM1
Capability
Given a set of client priorities and constraints, effectively use

Information management tools, technologies and methods
(e.g. Content Management Software, Data management
software and their related administration and design tools and
methods) to meet the
DM2
Advise and support clients (internal or external) in identifying

and resolving incompatibility issues in heterogeneous data
environments.
DM3
Advise and support clients (internal or external) about the

appropriate data models and data requirements for sources
51
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
and targets.
DM4
Advise and support clients (internal or external) about data

migration, the issues involved and the tools, procedures and
products required to migrate or convert data stores as
appropriate.
DM5
Advise and support clients (internal or external) on new

versions of data management products, including advice on
the value of new features and functions, upgrade processes
and product pre-requisites.
DM6
Given a client requirement, advise and support the client

(internal or external) on the current data mining techniques
and tools that would meet the requirement.'
DM7
Advise and support clients (internal or external) on current

data mining techniques and tools based on the client needs.
DM8
Advise clients (internal or external) on the requirements for

data management solutions and support the client in the
matching of requirements with product capabilities using
approved methodologies.
DM9
Advise and support clients (internal or external) in determining

the need for logging, recovery, and backup and how best to
implement the appropriate tools and techniques to meet these
requirements.
DM10

appropriate deployment techniques and best practices to
meet client needs.
DM11
Advise and support clients (internal or external) on optimal

solution configurations to meet client needs for performance
and capacity (e.g. use clustering, mobile and web access,
replication and multilingual)
DM12
Advise, and support clients (internal or external) on High

Availability solutions covering failover capability and
redundancy techniques.
52
12.2.4 Content Management

Ref:
CM1
Capability
Use Content Management tools, technologies and
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
methodologies to ensure optimal operations that meet the

client needs.
CM2
Advise and support clients (internal or external) in identifying

and resolving incompatibility issues in heterogeneous data
environments.
CM3
Based on understanding the pain points across the client's

organization, provide advice and support on Records
Management concepts
CM4
Advise and support clients (internal or external) on Search

Techniques and Applications for Content Management.
CM5
Advise and support clients (internal or external) on document

centric routing and workflow, including identifying user roles
and user access levels.
CM6
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on the

migration or conversion tools, procedures and products
required to migrate or convert to or between Content
Management solutions.
CM7

versions of Content Management products, including advice
on the value of new features and functions, upgrade
processes and product pre-requisites, including any
limitations on the use of the content
CM8
Advise and support clients (internal or external) on Content

Management product configuration to run in the client
environment
CM9

Management product logging, recovery and backup
capabilities
CM10

Management product deployment techniques and best
53
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
practices.
CM11
Configure Content Management product to meet the client's

requirements for performance and capacity (e.g. use
clustering, mobile and web access, replication and mail
routing, multilingual, etc.)
CM12

Management failover capability and redundancy.
12.2.5 Portal and Collaboration

Ref:
PC1
Capability
Given a set of client priorities and constraints, use portal and

collaboration related tools, technologies and methods to meet
client needs
PC2
Advise and support clients (internal or external) on migrating

or converting to a new Portal and Collaboration solution.
PC3

versions of Portal and Collaboration products, including
advice on the value of new features and functions, upgrade
processes and product pre-requisites.
PC4
Advise and support clients (internal or external) on Portal and

Collaboration product configuration to run in the client
environment
PC5

Collaboration solutions.
PC6

Collaboration logging, recovery, and backup capabilities
PC7

deployment techniques and best practices of Portal and
Collaboration solutions or products.
PC8
Advise and Support on Portal and Collaboration product
54
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
configuration to meet the client's requirements for

performance and capacity
PC9

Collaboration failover capability and redundancy.
PC4

Collaboration product configuration to run in the client
environment
PC5

Collaboration solutions.
PC6

Collaboration logging, recovery, and backup capabilities
PC7

deployment techniques and best practices of Portal and
Collaboration solutions or products.
PC8
Advise and Support on Portal and Collaboration product

configuration to meet the client's requirements for
performance and capacity
PC9

Collaboration failover capability and redundancy.
12.2.6 ISV Software

Independent Software Vendor (ISV) Software.
Ref:
ISV1
Capability
Use ISV products, technologies and methods to provide a

solution to an internal or external clients problem. Examples
of vendors who produce ISV products include Oracle, SAP,
and PeopleSoft.
ISV2
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on which

migration or conversion tools, procedures and products are
required to migrate or convert to ISV products.
55
Ref:
ISV3
Capability
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on new ISV
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
product versions, including new features and functions,

upgrade process, and any pre-requisites that may be needed.
ISV4
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on product

configuration to run in the client environment.
ISV5
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on ISV logging,

recovery and backup capabilities.
ISV6
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on deployment

techniques and or best practices of ISV solutions or products.
ISV7
Configure product to meet the client's requirements for

performance and capacity (e.g. use clustering, mobile and
web access, replication and mail routing, multilingual).
ISV8
Advise or support clients (internal or external) on ISV failover

capability and redundancy.
12.3 Business Integration Solutions

The certification candidate in this Technical Focus Area must fulfill the following criteria in addition to the
criteria for the candidates specialty area.
The Business Integration Solutions Technical Focus area is composed of the following specialty areas:
Data Integration
Business Analysis
Testing
12.3.1 Data Integration

The Data Integration IT Specialist has expert knowledge of database products, technologies and
methodologies.
Ref:
DA1
Capability
Design of complex databases applying appropriate data
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
modeling and database design tools

56
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
DA2
Follow best practices on Implementing databases
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
DA3
Plan and develop databases on large to very large projects
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
DA4
Use database administration and management tools to meet
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
client needs and/or solve client problems

DA5
Use tools for data integration and or Federation
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
DA6
Manage performance measurement, analysis and
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
optimization
DA7
Selection, tailoring and implementation of data-related

development methods
DA8
Lead a complex database design /implementation effort
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
DA9
Compare the possibilities, strengths and weaknesses of
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
different tools and techniques that can be combined into

different Data Integration solutions
DA10
Experience with each of the following Data Integration key

work products: Data Migration Maps (APP 013)Data Migration Plan (APP 017)Data Standardization Assessment (APP 307)Database Transaction Descriptions (APP 115)External Data Reference Assessment (APP 308)External Data Reference Definition (APP 309)Logical Data Model (APP 110)Meta Data Strategy (APP 407)Physical Database Design (APP 101)Subject Area Model (APP 408)
The work product IDs in parentheses are taken from GS
Method. Equivalent work products defined in other
57
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
methodology are also valid.

TOGER
12.3.2 Application Development and Maintenance

The Application Development and Maintenance IT Specialist has expert knowledge of application
development products, technologies and methodologies.
Ref:
AI1
Capability
Program in one mainstream programming language,
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
according to project guidelines and coding standards.

AI2
Given a business and technical context, compare the

possibilities, strengths and weaknesses of two or more
programming languages to make recommendations.
AI3
Given a test plan, perform unit test and debug complex

software.
AI4
Use automated development tools.
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
AI5
Define and measure metrics tracking development progress
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
and quality.
AI6
Given a set of requirements, design, build, test and package

significant aspects of a complete solution required by the
client.
AI7
Use configuration management tools (e.g. Clearcase, CAEndevor, CVS)
AI8
Use two or more major application development methods

(e.g. LAD / Waterfall, RAD, DSDM, RUP)
AI9
Elaborate and translate functional and non-functional

requirements into a design
AI10
Use library management tools (e.g. CMVC, SCLM, Librarian,

PVCS, etc.)
AI11
Experience with key work products for Application
58
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Development. System Context (APP 011)Logical Data Model (APP 110)Interface Specifications (APP 030)Use Case Model (APP 130)Test Strategy (APP 141)User Interface Conceptual Model (APP 146)Application Maintenance Turnover Package (APP 40153)
Interactive Model (APP 160)- User Scenario (APP 305)DFD Application Model (APP 315)Detailed Gap Analysis (APP 393)Application Programming Interface (ARC 104)Component Model (ARC 108)Non-Functional Requirements (ARC 119)Process Definition (BUS 309)
Method. Equivalent work products defined in a different
methodology are also valid.
TOGER
12.3.3 Business Analysis

The Business Analysis IT Specialist has experience in a number of areas including:
In-depth experience in definition and documentation of operational scenarios
In-depth experience in selection and use of tools and techniques for identification, analysis and
documentation of client requirements
In-depth ability to evaluate proposed solutions for compliance with business requirements.
59
Ref:
BA1
Capability
Apply knowledge of the client's vertical or horizontal business
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
context to identify, understand and articulate the clients

business strategy, problems and objectives.
BA2
Conduct requirements gathering workshops with a client to

meet the stated objective.
BA3
Define requirements using modeling techniques or otherwise

to produce deliverables (e.g. use cases, data flow diagrams,
entity relationship diagrams, etc.).
BA4
Validate the proposed solution against requirements (gap

analysis).
BA5
Select the appropriate methods, techniques and tools for

identifying, analyzing and documenting client requirements.
BA6
Develop business justification (scope, goals, benefits, costs)

for proposed solutions.
BA7
Translate business needs and opportunities to business and

IT requirements.
BA8
Identify the impact of the proposed solutions to the business

process.
BA9
Use a stream specific method and or process to gather and

analyze requirements
BA10
Validate requirements with the client.
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
BA11
Experience with key Business Analysis work products. -
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
System Context (APP 011)Logical Data Model (APP 110)Process Data Usage (APP 112)Use Case Models (APP 130)User Profiles (APP 150)User Scenarios (APP 305)Detailed Gap Analysis (APP 3093)60
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Non-Functional Requirements (ARCPP 119)Requirements Matrix (BUS 011)Process Definitions (BUS 309)Business Drivers (BUS 314)Customer Wants and Needs (BUS 320)
methodology are also are also valid.
TOGER
12.3.4 Business Information Management

The Business Information Management IT Specialists has experience in making available, integrating and
optimizing structured and/or unstructured data to in order to present or distribute information for use and
analysis by the business. The IT Specialist in this specialties majors in Business Intelligence (BI) or Content
Integration (CI).
Ref:
BIM1
Capability
Ability to use at least one development method relevant to the
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
BIM stream (e.g. RUP, DSDM).

BIM2
Advise and support clients with comparison and selection of

BIM tools and/or products.
BIM3
Identify and communicate the organizational changes needed

for the successful implementation of BI or CI systems, for
example new roles, responsibilities and the new
organizational structures required for governance and
management.
BIM4
Identify and communicate the changes to business processes

needed for the successful implementation of BI or CI systems.
BIM5
Identify business requirements for a BI or CI system as well
61
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
as their pros and cons.

BIM6
Understand the information lifecycle and have expertise in

managing information concepts such as KPI, Dashboard,
BPM, Workflow, Collaboration, Search and Retrieval.
BIM7
Know and use ECM ISV products, technologies and

methodologies. (Vendors may include: IBM, Microsoft, Oracle,
Documentum, OpenText, etc.) (CI)OrUse appropriate
database design administration and management tools for
information management solutions. (BI)
BIM8
Use one or more of the (business) classification, access

control and security techniques. (CI)OrDesign Data
Warehouse architectures through the effective use of at least
one architecture framework to. (BI)
12.3.5 Testing
The Testing IT Specialist has expert knowledge and experience in a number of areas including:
Disciplined approaches to the testing process
Lifecycle experience
In-depth experience developing comprehensive test plans based on risks acceptance criteria defined
with the customer.
Ref:
TE1
Capability
Develop comprehensive test plans based on risks and
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
acceptance criteria agreed with the client.

TE2
Develop test strategies to ensure client solutions meet

expected objectives
TE3
Create and execute end-to-end functionality tests at the

system level.
TE4
Select and use the appropriate full lifecycle testing

methodology concepts, including different levels and types of
tests.
TE5
Build test cases and test scripts, based on business
62
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
requirements, which specify test inputs, execution conditions

and expected results for every component being delivered.
TE6
Create customized test data based on system architecture

and production environment (e.g. mock data, dummy data)
TE7
Design a test environment to support the test strategy.
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
TE8
Define and take responsibility for the implementation of
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
Applied (2)
Mastered (3)
inspections and defect prevention techniques to ensure the

quality of the client solution.
TE9
Knows the functionality of testing tools from more than one

supplier and how such tools would support the testing
strategy.
TE10
Translate manual testing procedures and or test specifications

into automated test scripts.
TE11
Use configuration/library management tools to ensure that

correct version of test target and tests are staged for testing.
TE12
Use widely accepted test management tools in support of test

selection, configuration and execution (e.g. Test director, Test
Manager)
TE13
Use widely accepted defect management tools in support of

defect tracking and impact analysis (e.g. Test director,
Clearquest)
TE14
Experience with key Testing work products. Master Test Plan (APP 133)System Test Plan (APP 132b)Test Report (APP 138)Detailed Test Plan (APP 132)
methodology are also are also valid.
63
Ref:
Capability
Certification
Certification
Level One
Level Two
TOGER
64
13 Appendix G: IT Plus
13.1 Overview
IT Plus is the integration point for the IT Specialist program and the unique requirements of the business
units, industry or sectors. The requirements and capabilities for the IT Specialists program are strategic in
nature. It is expected that the capabilities defined in the IT Plus section will be more tactical and dynamic in
nature and maintain by the business units, industry or sector.
IT Plus capabilities are in addition to the IT Specialists Certification and Development Criteria, the Technical
Focus Capabilities and the Client Focus Capabilities for IT Specialist certification, recertification, senior
certification and senior recertification.
13.2 Guidelines for Developing IT Plus Capabilities

IT Plus capabilities may be evaluated during level one certification, level two certification and level three
(senior) certification, recertification or senior certification.
1. The business unit, industry or sector IT Plus capabilities should be in the range of four to six unique
capabilities. These should be unique capabilities that do not replicate capabilities in the IT
Specialists Certification and Development Criteria, the Technical Focus Capabilities and the Client
Focus Capabilities. The IT Specialists team will review the submitted capabilities to ensure the IT
Plus capabilities are unique.
2. The business unit, industry, or sector may use existing IT Specialist Certification Criteria as follows:
a. Elevate required level of an existing capability.
b. Require one or more focus area capabilities for all candidates in its business unit, industry or
sector, independent of the focus area declared by the candidate. For example, the candidate must
achieve a level 4 in a particular focus area capability even though the candidate has declared
another focus area.
c. Specify required profession contribution categories. Currently, with the exception of mentoring,
the candidate may choose from several categories.
d. Specify education or continuing skill development requirements, for example, industry training.
e. Stipulate additional requirements in project profiles. For example, at least one project profile must
demonstrate a particular capability or a set of capabilities.
3. The business unit, industry or sector IT Plus capabilities should be applicable to practitioners in all
geographies.
4. The business unit, industry or sector submitting the unique criteria should ensure the capabilities are
65
substantial enough to be measured and evaluated during certification. The IT Plus capabilities can
apply to level two certification, level three certification, the respective recertification, or in
combination.
5. Candidates who submit packages with IT Plus will be interviewed by three board members, one who
is designated to evaluate the package and the candidates chosen IT Plus capabilities. The business
unit. Industry or sector will have to designate current IT Specialists certification board members who
will be able to evaluate candidates for IT Plus. These board members will need to be able to
interview candidates as appropriate for certification.
The IT Plus capabilities should then be submitted to the Worldwide IT Specialist leader for review with the
Geography IT Specialist Leader team and the WW IT Specialist Executive. The WW team will ensure the
criteria are understood worldwide and are unique with the WW Executive making the final decision. Please
note, the request should not void accreditation of IBMs IT Specialist Certification program by The Open
Group. Per our accreditation agreement, IT Specialists certification requirements and extended
requirements must not relax the skills, experience, or process requirements set forth by the Program.
1. Provide training on the criteria as required
2. Identify board members who can evaluate candidates on the criteria
3. Answer candidate question on the criteria
4. Review, update and maintain the criteria on an annual basis
5. Update eligible board member list on an annual basis
The IT Specialist team will evaluate the usage of IT Plus criteria. Organizations with low usage of their IT
Plus criteria or criteria that is consistently problematic will be ask to review criteria and update or sunset as
appropriate.
66
14 Appendix H: Mapping to Old Disciplines & Specialties

Old Discipline
Old Specialty
Technical Focus
Technical Focus Specialty

Specialty
Business Applications
Application Development and
Business Integration
Application Development and
Maintenance
Solutions
Maintenance
Business Analysis
Business Analysis
Solutions
Data Integration
Data Integration
Solutions
Distributed Computing
Software

(AIM)
Testing
Testing
Solutions
Systems Infrastructure
Software Application
Software
Development
Software Application

Products
Software
Integration & Middleware

(AIM)
Content Management
Software
Content Management
Software Data Management
Software
Data Management
Cross Industry - ERP
Software
ISV Software
Software Messaging &
Software
Collaboration
Software Cross Systems
Cross Systems
Connectivity
Network Integration
Networking Systems
System Products- Server
Server Systems
System Products-Storage
Storage Systems
Systems Management
Systems Management
Systems Management
Notes: Business Partner Enablement is new. Some specialties have been phased out due to low worldwide usage.
Candidates should review the technical focus capabilities to determine the one most applicable for recertification.
67
15 Appendix I - Maintenance
15.1 IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Program
Maintenance
The WW IT Specialist Qualification program is documented and used to execute the program worldwide to
ensure a single worldwide process.
Proposals to change the IT Specialist program that represent a change to the current qualification programs
are reviewed by the WW IT Specialist Executive to determine if the request meets the objective of the
qualification program and the strategy of IBM. The request should not void accreditation of IBMs IT
Specialist Certification program by The Open Group. Per our accreditation agreement, IT Specialists
certification requirements and extended requirements must not relax the skills, experience, or process
requirements set forth by the Program.
A subject matter expert (SME) panel reviews submission of merit and makes a recommendation. The WW
IT Specialist Executive as well as the WW IT Specialist Leader and the Geography IT Specialist Leaders
must accept the recommendation. Upon approval, changes are accepted and implemented as appropriate.
In some cases, the SME panel may recommend a change be proposed The Open Group. Such changes will
be submitted to The Open Group under the direction of the certification program manger. IBM must notify
The Open Group with any program changes. Please see section 17.8. Any changes to IBMs program are
reviewed with The Open Group CPM in ensure IBM stays within its accreditation.
Please note: Changes must be applicable worldwide and across all business units otherwise please use IT Plus.
1. Please indicate the category(s) applicable for the change
__client focus
___technical focus
___core capability ___giveback ___engagement profiles __process
2. Please describe the business value of the change.
3. Please describe the risk of not making the change.
4. Is this a worldwide change? ___Yes
____No
If no, please explain why this change is necessary and why this change would not be implemented via IT Plus.
5. Is this a business unit change?
If no, please explain why this change is necessary and why this change would not be implemented via IT Plus.
68
16 Appendix J - Glossary
Term
Definition
Definition
Accreditation
The agreement between the Organization and the Certification Authority that defines the
Agreement
accreditation service to be provided and contains the legal commitment by the Organization
to the conditions of the accreditation program.
Accredited Certification A certification program, operated by a group of people under the leadership of Certification
Program (ACP)
Program Manager, that has successfully completed the accreditation process and for which
the Organization has been notified in writing by the Certification Authority that accreditation
has been achieved. Depending on context, the term is also used to mean the company or
organizational unit that operates an Accredited Certification Program
Certification Program
The specific individual(s) identified within an Organization as having the overall
Manager (CPM)
responsibility for managing the Accredited Certification Program on a day-to-day basis and
ensuring that it is carried out in accordance with its documented processes and
procedures.
The Open Group
Criteria in the IBM IT Specialist certification program that is above and beyond The Open
Extended Requirement Group requirements.

(TOGER)
69
17 IBM WW Accredited Certification Program Supplement

17.1 The Open Group Requirements
IBMs IT Specialist certification program contains The Open Group IT Specialist Certification Program (the
Program) requirements and extended certification requirements.
1. The Client Focus Capabilities and the Technical Focus Capabilities align with the Programs Client Focus
Skills and Technical Focus Skills. IBMs limited extended requirements to these are noted as The Open
Group extended requirements (TOGER).
2. The Core Capabilities align with the Core Foundation skills defined by the Program. IBMs limited
extended requirements to these are noted as The Open Group extended requirements (TOGER).
3.
IBMs extended certification requirements are defined by IT Plus and IBM Competencies. The IBM
Competencies include capabilities developed by the Client Value Initiative (CVI).
17.2 The Open Group Extended Requirements

IBM has extended requirements. These extended requirements are in accordance with The Open Group IT
Specialists Accreditation Requirements. The Open Group Extended Requirements (TOGER) are identified
in the IBM Worldwide IT Specialists Career Development and Qualification Guide. Any additional extended
requirements will be document as such and will be evaluated per the process outline in the IBM Worldwide
IT Specialists Career Development and Qualification Guide in Appendix I Maintenance.
17.3 The Open Group Accredited Certification Program Governance

17.3.1 Appeals Process
IBMs current program is only for IBM employee and follows the escalation process outlined. The decision of
the WW IT Specialist Executive is final. If WW IT Specialist Executive rules there are a problem with criteria
or process, IBM will notify The Open Group within two weeks of the WW IT Specialist Executive decision and
initiate a change request as appropriate. IBM as an ACP will not capriciously change criteria.
17.4 The Open Group Accredited Certification Program Responsibilities

ACP Role
IIT Specialists
Responsibilities
Program Role
70
ACP Role
IIT Specialists
Responsibilities
Program Role
Certification
WW IT Specialist
Program
Executive
1.
The WW IT Specialists Executive is the owner of the program and over sees
the Profession Structure and Governance.
Manager
2.
3.
The WW IT Specialist Executive represents IBM as the applicant

The WW IT Specialist Executive ensures the organization remains in
conformance with The Open Group policies and requirements.
4.
The WW IT Specialist Executive approves the certification outcome report

(the signature represents that the certification process has been carried out
in accordance with process and procedure)
5.
The WW IT Specialist Executive determines the outcome of Problem

Reports
6.
The WW IT Specialist Executive is the final arbiter on the appeals process
7.
The WW IT Specialist Executive approves the revocation (the signature

represents that the revocation is based on objective evidence and that there
are adequate grounds for the revocation)
71
ACP Role
IIT Specialists
Responsibilities
Program Role
Certification
WW IT Specialist
Program
Leader
Manager
1.
The WW IT Specialist Leader along with the WW IT Specialists Executive is

responsible for the Program Structure and Governance.
2.
The WW IT Specialist Leader is responsible for ensuring the IBMs program

is kept up to date per the defined process in The Open Group Maintenance.
3.
The WW IT Specialist Leader working with the WW IT Specialist Executive

will review the conformance statement yearly and make updates as
appropriate.
4.
The WW IT Specialist Leader with the WW IT Specialist Executive, through

reporting, audits and WW boards ensures IBMs program adheres to the
Certification Policy and Accreditation Policy at all time
5.
The WW IT Specialist Leader, as a certified IT Specialist is eligible to serve

on the certification board.
6.
The WW IT Specialist Leader is responsible for the day-to-day operation of

the Program
7.
8.
The WW IT Specialist Leader is the primary interface with the CA

The WW IT Specialist Leader is responsible for the advocacy and approval
of appropriate ACP procedures and manuals to assure the quality,
repeatability, reproducibility, and objectivity of the certification program
9.
The WW IT Specialist Leader is responsible for the design, maintenance,

and control of the ACP program, quality and procedures manual, or its
functional equivalent.
10. The WW IT Specialist Leader updates the IBM IT Specialists evaluation

procedures and criteria whenever The Open Group policy or the Certification
Board Member Handbook is updated in a way that materially affects IBMs
evaluation procedures. The WW IT Specialist Leader communicates the
changes to
11. The IT Specialist Profession Team during the regularly scheduled team
meetings and monthly Team communications
12. The IT Specialist Website new announcements section
17.5 IBM Contribution to The Open Group ITSC Vitality

IBM as an ACP is committed to support the vitality of ITSC in the following manner:
Contribute to the development of IT Specialist and certification best practices on which evolution of
72
the program depends.

IBM as an ACP will support The Open Groups direct certification. Request for board participation should be
directed to the WW IT Specialist Leader. The Profession Leader will work with the appropriate Geography IT
Specialist Leaders to identify current board members who are eligible to serve on The Open Groups Board.
Participation by IBMs board members is considered as giveback and is considered a global activity.
Request to the WW IT Specialist Leader will be turned around in 15 working days.
17.6 Eligibility for Grandfathering

IBM has a number of professionals who have been evaluated by the Organizations previous processes (i.e.
through a board review process equivalent to the ITSC board review process) as having met the
Conformance Requirements of their Program. These professionals who are currently board members retain
their eligibility as certification board members.
As an accredited ACP, professionals level one and level two certified under IBMs IT Specialist certification
program and are current are eligible to be certified in the ITSC Program without conducting any additional
Certification Board evaluations provided that it has been established that these IT Specialists meet the ITSC
Conformance Requirements. Certification under such conditions is termed Grandfathering.
As IBM has updated its criteria in the 2006 2007 timeframe, some specialists who certified prior to this date
may be under the old structure. These professionals should consult the mapping in this document for
recertification focus areas. Please note, those candidates certified under Business Partner Enablement are
not eligible for grandfathering in The Open Group.
For 12 months after first becoming accredited, an ACP is permitted to Grandfather their IT Specialists,
provided that the IT Specialists to be grandfathered:
1.
Meet the applicable Conformance Requirements of the ITSC Program at the time of Grandfathering
2. Have already been evaluated by the Organizations own processes within the three (3) years prior to
grandfathering. This means the professionals must be current with their certification and not overdue for
recertification.
IBM is required to put in place Certification Packages for all Grandfathered IT Specialists within six (6)
months of them being grandfathered. Eligible candidates who object to this should withdraw themselves from
eligibility. The Certification Authority will check to ensure this has been done. The Certification Packages
must be of a standard that would be acceptable to the Certification Authority and to a Direct Certification
Board.
The IBM profession will provide the names of those professionals eligible for grandfathering to The Open
Group. The professionals will have to apply to The Open Group and pay the associated processing fees to
become certified by The Open Group ITSC. At the completion of this transaction, professionals will be able
to use the Program Logo after they have accepted the terms of the Certification Authoritys Trademark
License Agreement (TMLA). IT Specialists who violate the terms of the TMLA must cease and will be
decertified.
73
For Grandfathered IT Specialists, the re-certification date will be three (3) years after the date of last
evaluation by the Organizations previous processes.
17.7 The Open Group Indirect Certification

Candidates who are certified in IBMs program are eligible for The Open Group ITSC After acceptance of the
TMLA by the Candidate; the Certification Authority will make a Certificate available to the Candidate in
electronic form and enter the Candidates Certification Record into the Directory of Certified IT Specialists.
The credentials already issued will allow the Certified IT Specialist to control to whom the Certification
Record is disclosed and to update contact and employer information in the Certification Record. Update to
employer information is subject to validation by the CA for Certified IT Specialists employed by organizations
with an ACP.
17.7.1 Use of the Program Logo (from ITCS Certification Policy

Policy
4.1.2 Use of Program Logo
Certified IT Specialists are required to ensure that they continue to meet the applicable Conformance
Requirements at all times.
The Certification Authority has the right at any time to audit Certified IT Specialists claims of
conformance and adherence to the requirements of this policy and to the TMLA.
Customers and prospective customers of Certified IT Specialists who discover a non-conformance
may report such non-conformance to the Certification Authority.
Use of the Program Logo with tag line or label for a level higher than the one to which the IT
Specialist is certified is not permitted. If a Certified IT Specialist is found to be doing so, then the
Certification Authority may remove the IT Specialist from the Directory of Certified IT Specialists, in
which case the IT Specialist ceases to be a Certified IT Specialist and may no longer use the
Program Logo.
The Certification Authority may, at any time, request Certified IT Specialists to provide the
Certification Authority with any information reasonably related to their conformance with the
applicable Conformance Requirements. If a Certified IT Specialist fails to provide such information
within 45 days of the request, then the Certification Authority may remove the IT Specialist from the
Directory of Certified IT Specialists, in which case the IT Specialist ceases to be a Certified IT
Specialist and may no longer use the Program Logo.
If a Certified IT Specialist is found by any means to no longer meet the applicable Conformance
Requirements, the Certification Authority will notify the Certified IT Specialist who shall:
1.
Within 90 days rectify the non-conformity and satisfy the Certification Authority of the efficacy
of the rectification; or
74
2.
Within 90 days satisfy the Certification Authority that they are conformant; or
3.
Within 90 days cease all use of the Program Logo, in which case the IT Specialist ceases to
be a Certified IT Specialist; or
4.
Within 45 days invoke the appeals process as described elsewhere in this document.
If option (4) is selected, the Certified IT Specialist will have 45 days from the completion of the
appeals process to implement the decision or cease all use of the Program Logo.
If the IT Specialist fails to take one of the above actions within the timescales described above, the
IT Specialist will cease to be a Certified IT Specialist.
4.1.3
Removal of the Program Logo
If an IT Specialist ceases to be a Certified IT Specialist, any and all rights they have to use the
Program Logo cease immediately. The IT Specialist at their own expense shall remove the Program
Logo from all sales literature, proposals, web sites, and other materials. The Certification Authority
may inspect any such sales literature, or other materials, to ensure adequate removal of the Program
Logo.
Once the rights to the Program Logo have been removed, any future use of the Program Logo will
require re-certification.
Failure to adhere to these provisions will be a breach of the TMLA and shall result in its termination.
17.8 The Open

Open Group Maintenance
IBM is required to update their evaluation procedures and criteria whenever this policy or the Certification
Board Member Handbook is updated in a way that materially affects the ACPs evaluation procedures.
For major changes and new requirements, IBM must use the updated versions no later than six (6) months
after publication of the new version by the Certification Authority. For bug fixes and minor changes, IBM must
use the updated versions no later than three (3) months after publication of the new version by the
Certification Authority. Categorization of changes into major, minor, or bug-fix is done by the Specification
Authority.
IBM must notify The Open Group with any program changes. These changes to IBMs program must not
exceed 30 calendar days from the date of the change.
17.9 Interfacing with The Open Group

Geography IT Specialist Leaders will update the WW IT Specialist Leaders with the status (as described
below) monthly for updating the worldwide profession leader monthly on the certification status of their
regions. The WW leader will compile the certification records and submit to The Open Group on a quarterly
basis for the following.
75

IT Specialist level one certifications
IT Specialist level two recertifications
IT Specialist level two certifications
IT Specialists decertified or revoked
IT Specialist level one recertifications
IT Specialists record update (Includes change of

employment and change of name)
The Certification Record contains

Field alterable by Certification Authority on receipt of proof of change of name:
1.
Full Name
Fields editable by Certified IT Specialists:

2.
If applicable, employer/business name and address
3.
Phone number
4.
Optionally: Alternate phone number
5.
Email address
6.
Postal address
Fields not editable by Certified IT Specialists:

7.
Direct or indirect certification (if indirect, the name of the Organization operating the ACP with a link to the entry
in the Accreditation Register)

8.
Certification expiry date
9.
Certification state: one of current or lapsed
10.
Conformance Requirements met (name and version/date, level of certification, Technical Focus Area, Stream
and Client Focus Area)

11.
History of past certifications (date of first certification, any certification at a new level, and dates of any re-
certifications)
All Certification Records are in English.

Note: IBM employees, who are indirectly certified by IBM as an ACP, may not make their records visible.
If a Certified IT Specialist moves to an employer that operates an Accredited Certification Program (ACP),
the ACP must accept the change to the Certified IT Specialists Certification Record using the ACPs
credentials.
If a Certified IT Specialist moves to an employer that does not operate an ACP, certification continues as
normal until renewal or re-certification. Renewal or re-certification will take place directly with the Certification
Authority at the IT Specialists expense. Those Certified IT Specialists will also be able to amend his/her
record accordingly.
Note: Change of employment does not affect the term of certification.
76

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IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist

Copyright IBM Corp. 2008, 2007, 2006 IBM Confidential

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

1 IT SPECIALIST CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND QUALIFICATION GUIDE.......................... 5

3 IT SPECIALIST CAREER DEVELOPMENT COMPONENTS................................................. 8

3.1.1 Foundational Competencies..................................................................................................... 9

3.2.1 Technical Services................................................................................................................. 10

4 CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND QUALIFICATION.............................................................. 12

4.1.1 IT Specialist (Entry)................................................................................................................ 12

5 QUALIFICATION PROCESSES ........................................................................................... 14

5.1.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................... 14

5.2.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................... 17

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

6.1 COMMONLY USED TERMS ................................................................................................................... 19

6.2.1 WW IT Specialist Program Governance ................................................................................. 22

6.3.1 Certification Review Interviews............................................................................................... 23

6.4.1 Before the Board Meeting ...................................................................................................... 25

6.6.1 Inactive Status ....................................................................................................................... 28

7 APPENDIX A LEVEL DESCRIPTIONS .............................................................................. 30

8 APPENDIX B IT SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION & DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA .............. 31

8.1.2 Awards .................................................................................................................................. 32

9 APPENDIX C - CORE CAPABILITIES ................................................................................. 34

12 APPENDIX F - TECHNICAL FOCUS CAPABILITIES ........................................................ 42

12.1.1 Storage Systems.................................................................................................................. 42

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

12.1.6 Business Partner Enablement .............................................................................................. 48

12.2.1 Application Development (AD) Products............................................................................... 49

12.3.1 Data Integration ................................................................................................................... 56

13 APPENDIX G: IT PLUS ..................................................................................................... 65

14 APPENDIX H: MAPPING TO OLD DISCIPLINES & SPECIALTIES ................................. 67

17.3.1 Appeals Process.................................................................................................................. 70

17.7.1 Use of the Program Logo (from ITCS Certification Policy...................................................... 74

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

1 IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

IT Specialist qualification process description,

1.2 Intended Audience

IT Specialists interested in career development,

IT Specialists preparing for qualification,

Reviewers and interviewers of IT Specialist qualification,

1.3 Documentation Notes

1.4 Document Management Process

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

2.1 IBMs Commitment

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

2.1.4 Excellence and Effectiveness

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

3 IT Specialist Career Development Components

3.1 IBM Competencies

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide

3.1.1 Foundational Competencies

Teamwork and Collaboration

Creative Problem Solving

Passion for the Business

3.1.2 Technical Leadership Competencies

Strategic Risk Taking

Enabling Performance and Growth

Developing IBM People and Communities

Passion for IBM's Future

These technical leadership competencies map to innovation, influence and leadership. As an IT

Enabling Performance and

Strategic Risk Taking

IBM Worldwide IT Specialist Career Development and Qualification Guide