MCAS exams provide a valid and reliable measure of technical proficiency and expertise by evaluating the ability to use the advanced features in the 2007 Office system products or Windows Vista to solve real-world business problems. The exams are administered through Microsoft Certified Exam Providers, worldwide.

The MCAS is the globally recognized standard for validating expertise with the 2007 Microsoft Office system of business productivity applications. The credential offers unique benefits for individuals, businesses, academic institutions, staffing agencies, and government organizations.

Individuals

By earning the MCAS credential, you will prove your expertise using the latest Microsoft Office programs. Certification can help you differentiate yourself in today's competitive job market, broaden your employment opportunities, and garner greater earning potential. In your current job, certification can help you advance, while the greater skills mastery can also lead to increased job satisfaction. Research indicates that Office-certified individuals have increased competence and productivity with Microsoft Office programs as well as increased credibility with their employers, co-workers, and clients.

Businesses

Employers can use the MCAS certification as validation of an employee's ability to be productive using the 2007 Microsoft Office system and as a means to maximize their software investment.

The MCAS credential simplifies the employee selection and hiring process by easily identifying individuals with the skills to be productive from day one. In addition, certification provides a quantifiable measurement of return on a training investment. An investment in skills also improves employee morale, confidence, and productivity, while contributing to the bottom line.

Academic Institutions

By offering the MCAS credential, academic institutions can provide students with a globally-recognized validation of their expertise utilizing the most up-to-date business technologies. Incorporating certification into your curricula raises the value and credibility of your programs by preparing students to move seamlessly from homework to workforce. The Microsoft Official Academic Course (MOAC) material is available to help you design and deliver your courses. The Microsoft Certified Application Specialist credential can also be implemented within your organization in order to standardize skills and bolster staff and administrative productivity.

Staffing Agencies

Staffing agencies can use the MCAS credential to raise the value of their placement services by offering job candidates with proven skills. Use the credential as your standard benchmark for Microsoft Office skills in order easily and cost-effectively assess a potential employee's abilities and reduce your agency's placement failure. This standard enhances your agency's reputation and can potentially help increase revenues.

Government Organizations

The MCAS credential can be a valuable component of workforce development, training, or rehabilitation initiatives. It provides an independent, quantifiable measurement of training efforts and can be used to validate program success and your capability to provide skilled workers. Implementing MCAS certification for your own employees can also lead to improved organizational efficiencies and productivity.