The Importance of Certifications When Selecting a Data Center Technician

When it comes to your data center and its mission-critical information, you want it handled by highly trained professionals. But how do you know which data center company to choose? Not all data center companies and technicians are the same, so you should take a look at accreditations and certifications before making a decision on who to partner with. When choosing a data-center company for structured cabling, find out if any of your options are members of the Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI), which is a worldwide association for cabling design and installation professionals. BICSI provides information, education and knowledge assessment for companies and individuals in the information and communications technology (ICT) community. Having BICSI certifications can prove the skill level of the company and its staff. BICSI-certified installers and technicians are trained to the highest levels in the industry. Candidates for BICSI credentials must show proper industry experience and pass rigorous exams. Those who pass must comply with strict conduct standards and continue their education on an ongoing basis.

Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD)

This credential is the most prestigious of all the BICSI certifications. According to BICSI, an RCDD has proven they can design, integrate and implement ICT and related infrastructure components across multiple disciplines and applications. BICSI RCDDs are individuals who are uniquely positioned to create the detailed design of a new system and/or integrate design into an existing structure. They understand the importance of achieving an efficient, cost-effective, future-ready system, no matter what the stage of the project. To become a BIICSI RCDD, a candidate must have at least five years of experience or an equal combination of experience and industry certifications. An RCDD typically spends hundreds of hours studying the Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual (TDMM) and completes many information technology systems (ITS) fundamentals and design courses. Finally, to earn the RCDD certification, a candidate has to prove his or her knowledge by passing an extensive exam.

Outside Plant Designer (OSP)

According to BICSI, this credential means the person has demonstrated knowledge in OSP technology and the ability to design aerial, underground and direct-buried infrastructures. To earn OSP designation, a BICSI technician must demonstrate, through testing, their knowledge in OSP right-of-way and route design; OSP space design; underground, direct-buried and aerial plant design; OSP cabling hardware; and OSP grounding, bonding and electrical protection systems. OSPs must pass a rigorous two-hour, 100-question design examination in order to receive the OSP certification. They must have a minimum of two years of approved and verifiable design experience in outside plant design. In addition, OSPs must complete the ICT Fundamentals exam or have a current BICSI RCDD. Cabling infrastructure is complex. When looking for a data-center partner, it makes sense to look for a company with BICSI technicians and installers, RCDDs and RCDD/OSPs on staff. These important and prestigious certifications can give you peace of mind knowing you hired the most qualified technicians.