Nearly all aspiring web designers start their careers with Adobe Dreamweaver training. It is thought to be the most utilised web-development platform globally. For applications done commercially you'll need a full understanding of the full Adobe Web Creative Suite. This will include (but is by no means restricted to) Flash and Action Script. Should you desire to become an ACP (Adobe Certified Professional) or an ACE (Adobe Certified Expert) then such knowledge is non-negotiable.

To become a well-rounded web professional however, you'll have to get more diverse knowledge. You'll need to bolt on programming skills like HTML, PHP and database engines like MySQL. A practical knowledge of SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) and E-Commerce will help when talking to employers.

Many students come unstuck over a single training area which is often not even considered: The way the training is divided into chunks and sent out to you. A release of your materials piece by piece, as you pass each exam is how things will normally arrive. This sounds sensible, but you might like to consider this: With thought, many trainees understand that their providers typical path to completion is not what they would prefer. It's often the case that varying the order of study will be far more suitable. Could it cause problems if you don't get everything done at the pace they expect?

In an ideal situation, you want ALL the study materials up-front - meaning you'll have all of them to return to any point - irrespective of any schedule. This also allows you to vary the order in which you complete your exams where a more intuitive path can be found.

Be alert that all certifications you're considering doing will be recognised by employers and are up-to-date. 'In-house' certificates are not normally useful in gaining employment. Only properly recognised certification from the likes of Microsoft, CompTIA, Cisco and Adobe will mean anything to employers.

Full support is of the utmost importance - look for a package offering 24x7 direct access to instructors, as not opting for this kind of support could put a damper on the speed you move through things. Avoid training that only supports trainees with a message system when it's outside of usual working hours. Trainers will give you every excuse in the book why you don't need this. But, no matter how they put it - you want support at the appropriate time - not when it's convenient for them.

Be on the lookout for providers that incorporate three or four individual support centres active in different time-zones. Each one should be integrated to offer a simple interface and round-the-clock access, when you want it, with the minimum of hassle. Never make do with anything less. 24x7 support is the only viable option for IT learning. Perhaps you don't intend to study during the evenings; usually though, we're out at work at the time when most support is available.

With all the options available, does it really shock us that nearly all students have no idea which career they will enjoy. Since in the absence of any commercial background in IT, how should we possibly be expected to understand what a particular job actually consists of? Deliberation over many areas is important if you need to dig down a solution that suits you:

* The type of personality you have and interests - which work-related things please or frustrate you.

* Is it your desire to achieve a closely held aim - like working for yourself someday?

* What scale of importance is the salary - is it of prime importance, or is enjoying your job higher up on your priority-list?

* Considering all that Information Technology encapsulates, it's important to be able to see what's different.

* You'll also need to think hard about the level of commitment you're going to invest in the accreditation program.

Ultimately, your only chance of understanding everything necessary is via a long chat with an advisor that understands the market well enough to provide solid advice.