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The new Dell Certification Program, introduced today, is offering customers comprehensive, skills-based certification across three key segments of enterprise IT: storage management, server management and networking. The Dell Certification Program, one of the first skills-based programs of its kind, combines core product knowledge with hands-on experience building and managing standards-based Dell solutions. Participants must pass challenging skills-based examinations, which validate their ability to correctly implement, manage and support Dell products in real-world scenarios. "We increasingly hear from customers that they are facing tightening budgets while becoming increasingly dependent on technology to support their businesses," said Gary Cotshott, vice president and general manager, Dell Services. "They also are facing more pressure to justify spending and prove the value of their technology investments, which these courses can help do." "The new Dell Certification Program enables customers to help their organizations maximize the value of their technology investments by guaranteeing them the knowledge and expertise required to implement, configure, manage and monitor Dell server, storage and networking systems," said Lois Rouder, national training manager for Dell. "In fact, completing Dell certification courses has even helped ease the transition for many of our customers to Dell enterprise solutions, enhancing their ability to ramp up quickly and effectively." There are three focus areas in the certification program: Dell servers, storage and networking. Introductory courses are available online in the areas of server, storage and systems management for $245. With pricing depending on length of course, site location and number of students enrolled, advanced courses begin at $1,795. Certification exams are $125. More information about the Dell Certification Program is available at www.dell.com/training/lookingtoyou.