Microsoft Power Platform Certification path: Is It Worth the Investment?

By Aarav Goel 01-May-2023

The demand for skilled professionals in the tech industry is increasing every day. If you are looking to boost your career and skills, one way to do so is by obtaining a certification in the Microsoft Power Platform. The Power Platform is a suite of tools from Microsoft that enables businesses to create custom applications and automate workflows. In this article, we will explore the Power Platform certification path, specifically the PL-900 learning path, and discuss whether it is worth the investment.

What is the Power Platform Certification Path?

The Power Platform certification path is a series of exams that test your knowledge and skills in using the Power Platform tools. The certification exams cover various aspects of the platform, including Power Apps, Power Automate, Power BI, and Power Virtual Agents. The exams are designed to validate your skills in building and deploying business solutions using the Power Platform.

There are several certification levels in the Power Platform certification path, starting from the Fundamentals level to the Expert level. The Fundamentals level includes the PL-900 exam, which is the starting point for those who are new to the Power Platform.

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What is the PL-900 Learning Path?

The PL-900 exam is the first exam in the Power Platform certification path, and it covers the basics of the Power Platform. The PL-900 learning path is designed to prepare you for the exam by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the Power Platform tools and their functionality. The PL-900 learning path includes several modules, covering topics such as:

Power Platform Overview: This module provides an overview of the Power Platform, including its components and architecture.
Core Common Features: This module covers the common features of the Power Platform, including data connectors, formulas, and expressions.
Power Apps: This module covers the basics of creating custom applications using Power Apps.
Power Automate: This module covers the basics of automating workflows using Power Automate.
Power BI: This module covers the basics of creating visualizations and reports using Power BI.
Power Virtual Agents: This module covers the basics of creating chatbots using Power Virtual Agents.

Each module in the PL-900 learning path includes interactive exercises and quizzes to help you reinforce your knowledge and skills.

Is the Power Platform Certification Path Worth the Investment?

Now that we have a basic understanding of the Power Platform certification path and the PL-900 learning path, let's discuss whether it is worth the investment.

Improved Career Opportunities: Obtaining a certification in the Power Platform certification can improve your career opportunities, as it validates your skills and knowledge in using the platform. According to Microsoft, companies are looking for professionals who can build custom applications and automate workflows using the Power Platform. By obtaining a certification, you can differentiate yourself from other job candidates and increase your chances of landing a job or promotion.
Increased Salary: A certification in the Power Platform can also lead to an increase in salary. According to Payscale, the average salary for a Power Platform developer is $88,738 per year, while a Power BI developer earns an average salary of $85,279 per year. By obtaining a certification in the Power Platform, you can demonstrate your expertise and negotiate a higher salary.
Enhanced Skills and Knowledge: The Power Platform certification path provides you with the skills and knowledge necessary to create custom applications and automate workflows using the platform. By completing the PL-900 learning path, you will gain a foundational understanding of the platform, which can be applied to your current job or future projects. Additionally, the certification path includes higher-level exams that cover more advanced topics, allowing you to continue to improve your skills and knowledge.
Industry Recognition: Microsoft certifications are recognized globally, and obtaining a certification in the Power Platform can demonstrate your proficiency in using the platform to potential employers, clients, and colleagues. The Power Platform is a widely-used technology in the business world, and having a certification can show that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to work with the platform effectively.
Access to Microsoft Resources: Obtaining a certification in the Power Platform also grants you access to various Microsoft resources, such as the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) site and the Microsoft Learning Community. These resources provide you with access to exclusive content, training, and networking opportunities with other certified professionals.
Investment Cost: One important factor to consider when deciding whether to pursue the Power Platform certification path is the cost of the investment. While the PL-900 learning path is relatively affordable, with an exam fee of $99, the higher-level exams can be more expensive. Additionally, there is a time commitment required to complete the certification path, as each exam requires preparation and study time.
Improved Problem-Solving Abilities: Pursuing the Power Platform certification path can enhance your problem-solving abilities, as it requires you to think critically and creatively to solve complex business problems using the platform. Through the certification path, you will learn how to identify business problems, design solutions, and implement them using the Power Platform. These skills can be valuable not only in your professional career but also in your personal life. You will learn how to think outside the box, approach problems from different angles, and develop innovative solutions that can benefit both you and your organization. By improving your problem-solving abilities, you can become a more valuable asset to any organization and increase your potential for career advancement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a certification in the Power Platform can be a worthwhile investment for your career growth and development. The certification path provides you with the skills and knowledge necessary to create custom applications and automate workflows using the platform, which can increase your job opportunities and earning potential. Additionally, industry recognition and access to Microsoft resources can be valuable assets in your professional career.

If you are considering pursuing the Power Platform certifications, starting with the PL-900 is a great way to begin. The PL-900 learning path provides you with a foundational understanding of the Power Platform, which can be applied to higher-level exams and real-world projects. While there is a cost associated with the certification path, the potential benefits can outweigh the investment in the long run.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue a certification in the Power Platform depends on your career goals and aspirations. However, if you are looking to enhance your skills and knowledge in the Power Platform and demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers, clients, and colleagues, obtaining a certification in the Power Platform can be a valuable investment.

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