1/4/2001 -- IBM recently announced changes to several of its e-commerce-related certification programs.

All certifications for WebSphere 3 will be retired on Jan. 31, to be replaced by WebSphere 3.5 certifications.

As of Dec. 31, IBM has also retired its IBM Certified Solutions Expert, Net.Commerce 3 title (test #451). There is no replacement Net.Commerce certification available. Instead, the company suggests that candidates pursue one of the following certifications:

• IBM Certified Specialist, WebSphere Commerce Suite 4.1 Implementation (test #496)
• IBM Certfied Solutions Expert, WebSphere Commerce Suite 4.1 Customization (test # 497)

For more information, visit http://www.ibm.com/software/ad/certify/news.html or e-mail the IBM certification program at . -B.N.