Maybe this is not the best place to list this but who knows. I read the opening "welcome" post and feel that this is geared towards embracing the new release and getting a movement going on this topic.
I read an article this past weekend in the new edition of AUGIWorld that was written by David Harrington. In the article he was talking about certification for AutoCAD. I have to say that I agree with him whole heartedly in his effort to get something started here. My ideas are 3 levels of certification just like he outlined in Basic, Advanced, & Master. The problem that I have is that I believe it should deviate slightly as follows.
1. Basic - Certification in the newest version of the program that everyone must take to be current and/or stay current. this should be a set fee but discounted or free for those that are "Master Certified". This test should prove that you know how to draw, print, create layers, modify, and other basic functions using the current version.
2. Advanced - Certification that carries over from each current release but if you want "advanced status" with the current version then retake the test for the current version. This shows that you can create a ctb file, templates, maybe set-up sheet manager templates, and other items that are more advanced. (Open for discussion)
3. Master - Certification that can only be achieved by taking the two lower tests first but does not have to be upgraded with each new version released. This test shows that you use and have used the program for years. That you know how to customize it to do what you need using lisp, vba, etc. We can set up dbconnect databases, drawing standards, and just about anything else that a cad manager does or a programmer. This is a certification that goes with you forever regardless of what version you tested on. It can even be stamped "AutoCAD Master Certification - Programmer" OR "CAD Manager". You will have to recertify as basic level at least every other release and these recertifications should be free or a minimal charge.
What does everyone else think??