Feedback on Axis's New Certification Exam

Today is the first day for the Axis Network Video exam and we have feedback from an integrator member who has taken the test.

In November 2010, Axis announced a certification program. The stated goal of the program is: "help people and companies demonstrate their competence and skills in the area of IP video surveillance." To become certified, "individuals need to pass an advanced test that proves they are well-versed in the latest network video technologies, solutions, products and best-practice techniques". For Axis's studying recommendations, see the Axis exam preparation guide [link no longer available].

Here's feedback from an integrator:

"This certification was proctored at a local technical skills testing facility, and was PC based. Cost was $150 USD. The test was composed of 50 multiple-choice questions, with some questions requiring mutiple responses from the selection list. The test was timed, and provided 1h :30m to complete, but I would venture to say that most folks familiar with the terminology and technology will complete all questions in 30m or less.

The test was very 'Axis-centric' in terms of content, and a good portion of the exam questions (perhaps 50%) specifically related to Axis products; network cameras, PTZ cams/domes, encoders) In order to pass the test, the taker will need to be familiar with the full catalog of Axis products including network cameras, encoders, installation tools, and VMS software. The balance of questions more broadly surveyed network architecture, network security, and bandwidth considerations.

There were a fair amount of questions devoted to questioning or referencing the 'HDTV' properties of various Axis cameras. It seems they have significantly limited useage of 'megapixel' in favor of the much more broadly descriptive 'HDTV' standard.  Additionally, familiarity with Axis centric terms and features are helpful in passing the cert."

We are not surprised the test is quite Axis centric. While the marketing statements in the press release were aspirational, even the exam preparation guide is pretty clear about the heavy Axis product focus.

As such, the test is probably quite worthwhile for those who use Axis heavily in their day to day integrations but significantly less valuable as a general purpose IP video certification nor for those who primarily use other camera lines.

As a side note, Axis's obsession with HDTV may cause confusion with the rest of the industry (who primarily uses megapixel or HD) and even with their own offerings (as they now provide 3 and 5MP non-'HDTV' cameras).