An important area that is sometimes not even considered by new students considering a training program is that of 'training segmentation'. Basically, this means the method used to break up the program for timed release to you, which vastly changes where you end up. Usually, you will purchase a course taking 1-3 years and get sent one module each time you pass an exam. This may seem sensible until you think about these factors: What if you don't finish every section? And what if you find the order of the modules counter-intuitive? Because of nothing that's your fault, you mightn't complete everything fast enough and consequently not get all your materials.

Put simply, the perfect answer is to have their ideal 'order' of training laid out, but make sure you have all of your learning modules right from the beginning. It's then all yours should you not complete it quite as quick as they'd want.

Usually, trainers will provide a big box of books. It's not a very interesting way to learn and not ideal for studying effectively. Research has always shown that getting into our studies physically, is far more likely to produce long-lasting memories.

Interactive full motion video with demonstrations and practice sessions will turn you off book-based study for ever more. And they're far more fun. Make sure to obtain a training material demonstration from the training company. You should ask for slide-shows, instructor-led videos and interactive labs where you get to practice.

Purely on-line training should be avoided. Always choose CD or DVD based study materials where obtainable, so that you have access at all times - and not be totally reliant on your broadband being 'up' 100 percent of the time.

Proper support is incredibly important - locate a good company providing 24x7 full access, as anything less will not satisfy and will also impede your ability to learn. Many only provide email support (too slow), and phone support is often to a call-centre that will take the information and email an instructor - who will then call back sometime over the next 24hrs, at a time suitable for them. This is no use if you're stuck and can't continue and have a one hour time-slot in which to study.

Top training companies incorporate three or four individual support centres across multiple time-zones. They use an online interactive interface to join them all seamlessly, no matter what time you login, there is always help at hand, with no hassle or contact issues. Unless you insist on direct-access round-the-clock support, you'll regret it very quickly. You may not need it throughout the night, but consider weekends, late evenings or early mornings.

Potential trainees hopeful to build a career in computers and technology normally aren't sure which path to follow, or what area to achieve their certification in. Consequently, if you've got no background in the IT industry, how can you expect to know what a particular IT employee actually does day-to-day? How can you possibly choose which training route would be most appropriate for success. To get to the bottom of this, a discussion is necessary, covering a number of different aspects:

- Your personality can play an important part - what things get your juices flowing, and what tasks you really dislike.

- What sort of time-frame do you want for retraining?

- What are your thoughts on salary vs the travel required?

- With everything that IT covers, it's important to be able to absorb what is different.

- It's wise to spend some time thinking about any sacrifices you'll need to make, as well as what commitment and time you're going to give to the accreditation program.

The bottom line is, the most intelligent way of checking this all out is through a long chat with an experienced advisor that through years of experience will lead you to the correct decision.

A typical blunder that potential students often succumb to is to choose a career based on a course, rather than starting with where they want to get to. Schools are brimming over with students who chose a course based on what sounded good - instead of the program that would surely get them the career they desired. It's a sad fact, but a great many students start out on programs that sound fabulous from the prospectus, but which delivers a career that doesn't satisfy. Try talking to typical college graduates to see what we mean.

Take time to understand what your attitude is towards earning potential and career progression, and if you're ambitious or not. It's vital to know what the role will demand of you, what accreditations they want you to have and in what way you can develop commercial experience. We recommend that students take guidance from a skilled professional before embarking on some particular training program, so there's little doubt that the chosen route will give you the skills necessary.