8/7/2002 -- IBM announced last week that it is updating its WebSphere Commerce Business Edition certifications.

As a result, the company will retire the current WebSphere Commerce 5.1 exams on August 12. The new 5.4 exams -- #211 for its IBM Certified Specialist title, and #221 for its IBM Certified Enterprise Developer title -- debut on August 12.

For a limited time, candidates who pass free qualification tests will be allowed to take both new exams free. The offer is available through Sept. 30, but is limited to the first 150 registrants.

More information on these exams and the free versions can be found here. -B.N.