Major Updates to Dynamics 365 Certification Program
Microsoft continues to refine its certification program to align with the changing needs of businesses and individuals. In January 2024, Microsoft unveiled significant updates to its Dynamics 365 certification offerings, introducing new certifications, renaming existing ones, and streamlining pathways to expertise. Let’s delve into the details of these exciting changes.
New Certification: Microsoft Certified: Business Central Developer Associate
Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365 Business Central Developer Associate certification released in January 2024. Tailored for developers working with Dynamics 365 Business Central, this certification validates skills in creating and modifying apps to enhance business processes. Candidates are assessed through Exam MB-820, covering various aspects of Business Central development. Notably, this associate-level certification has no prerequisites, making it accessible to aspiring developers eager to prove their expertise.
Renaming of Certifications and Exams
Microsoft has streamlined its certification nomenclature to reflect changes in its product offerings. With the consolidation of Dynamics 365 Customer Insights solutions, Exam MB-220 has been renamed to Exam MB-220: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customer Insights (Journeys) Functional Consultant, alongside its associated certification, now known as the Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365 Customer Insights (Journeys) Functional Consultant Associate. Similarly, Exam MB-260 has been rebranded to Exam MB-260: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customer Insights (Data) Specialist, with its certification now titled Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365 Customer Insights (Data) Specialty.
Retirement of Exam MB-300: Microsoft Dynamics 365: Core Finance and Operations
Microsoft’s decision to retire Exam MB-300 marks a significant shift in its certification framework. Effective February 29, 2024, candidates will no longer need to pass Exam MB-300 alongside another exam to earn associate-level certifications. This retirement streamlines the certification process, reducing the number of required exams and eliminating prerequisites for expert-level certifications. To fill the void left by Exam MB-300, relevant content will be integrated into other exams, ensuring a seamless transition for aspiring Dynamics 365 professionals.
Implications for Certification Pathways
With the retirement of Exam MB-300, candidates pursuing associate-level certifications will now face simplified pathways. The Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365 Finance Functional Consultant Associate, Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management Functional Consultant Associate, and Dynamics 365: Finance and Operations Apps Developer Associate certifications now require passing Exam MB-310, MB-330, and MB-500, respectively. Moreover, expert-level certifications no longer mandate Exam MB-300 as a prerequisite, offering flexibility to candidates aspiring to become Dynamics 365 specialists.
Microsoft’s latest updates to its Dynamics 365 certification program signify a commitment to adaptability and accessibility in an ever-changing technological landscape. By introducing new certifications, renaming existing ones, and retiring outdated exams, Microsoft aims to provide professionals with clearer pathways to expertise in Dynamics 365 solutions. These changes not only streamline the certification process but also ensure that candidates are equipped with the latest skills required to excel in today’s digital economy.
