Microsoft has not scheduled a release date for its Next Generation of Certifications. Please subscribe to the HDI Industry Insider e-newsletter and keep abreast of all upcoming developments. Once launched, the Microsoft will award the new certifications directly to the individual once the person has met the Microsoft requirements and HDI has reported the HDI credentials to Microsoft. HDI® Recognized in Microsoft’s New Generation Certification

Colorado Springs, Colo. – May 8, 2007 – HDI the world's largest membership association for IT service and support professionals and the premier certification body for the industry, today announced an agreement with Microsoft Corp. that recognizes HDI Support Center Analyst Certification along with Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) Certification as a new generation of Microsoft certification.

Microsoft’s New Generation Certification program for IT service and support professionals focuses on both technical expertise in designing, developing, implementing and supporting solutions with Microsoft products, as well as the customer service and IT service management skills including business processes, trouble shooting and communication that are core elements of HDI Certification. IT service and support professionals who currently possess HDI Support Center Analyst and HDI Desktop Support Technician certifications are eligible to apply for Microsoft’s New Generation Certification.

“The evolving support industry demands that IT service and support professionals be not only technically qualified to solve problems, but also have the customer service and IT service management skills necessary to satisfy the customer. Microsoft recognizes that delivering high quality service and support requires more than just technical abilities and understanding. Customer service and IT service management skills are also vital,” said Bill Wall, director of certification, Microsoft. “Selecting a certification to meet these requirements was done with careful consideration. In HDI we chose a recognized global industry leader that was focused on service management skills and that was technology neutral. HDI Certification combined with the MCITP Certification meets the needs of the support industry.”

“We are very pleased to have participated in this effort with Microsoft, a worldwide leader in IT software, services and solutions,” said Ron Muns, founder and CEO, HDI. “HDI and Microsoft have determined the essential skills for well-rounded IT service and support staff and has delineated the optimal certification career path for these professionals. This new certification is in part the result of that collaboration. Microsoft’s New Generation Certification demonstrates that the support industry is maturing and that IT support professionals need to have both technical skills and customer service skills. This new certification will help to further strengthen the profession.”