Asigra Inc., a leading Cloud Backup, Recovery and Restore (BURR) software provider since 1986, unveiled the Asigra Cloud Backup Technical Certification Program, the industry's first tiered cloud backup certification program to be offered by a cloud backup software provider. Offered through Asigra Training Services, this individual-based certification program covers the entire Asigra Cloud Backup product suite. As the first tiered technical certification program for the backup and recovery industry, the new program will improve the industry by creating individuals who have a validated and certified level of technical competency. The program was announced at the 2012 Asigra Cloud Backup Partner Summit, the largest cloud backup event of its kind, which took place from June 11th to June 13th at the Sheraton Centre, Toronto.

"The cloud backup and recovery industry has needed this certification program for some time," said Werner Coetzee, Business Consultant, Shoden Data Systems, a Hitachi Data Systems Company.

"By having employees that have been certified by Asigra, our partners can enhance their customer service by providing a consistent level of quality," said Sean Leclair, Director, Technical Services, Asigra. "It's a comprehensive and rigorous certification program, so our partners will know that an Asigra certified employee understands and knows how to use the best practices for Asigra Cloud Backup software. Our partner's clients can be assured that there are qualified and certified backing up and protecting their data."

There is a link between employee certification and overall employee efficiency and productivity. According to IDC, organizations with 40% to 55% of their team members certified performed above the average of all organizations. IDC research has also found that well-trained teams in IT were 10% more productive and could account for $70,000 worth of improvement annually for a seven person team.

The Asigra Certification Program is divided into four levels: Asigra Certified Associate (ACA), Asigra Certified Technician (ACT), Asigra Certified Engineer (ACE) with specialization and Asigra Certified Instructor (ACI). All levels require that students participate in a blend of in-class and e-learning sessions. To gain the Instructor designation, the student is required to submit a presentation to a thorough evaluation process, judged by qualified Asigra training staff.