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Novell Certification Testing

Pearson VUE becomes the primary testing vendor for Novell

Frequently Asked Questions regarding Novell’s Transition to Pearson VUE as its Single Vendor for Test Delivery

For Test Centers

1. When will this change happen?
   This change will be taking place immediately and all Novell exams will be delivered only through Pearson VUE^® Authorized Test Centers.
2. Why is Novell moving to a single-vendor model?
   Shifting to a primary support vendor worldwide will advance test security through the deployment of advanced security and data forensic technologies, facilitate the rapid localization of exams around the world, and allow for increased certification scalability and coverage.
3. What about Novell’s online registration and certification tracking system?
   The transition to a primary vendor requires Novell to develop improved online exam registration, tracking, and customer notification capabilities with Pearson VUE. Please be patient as we develop a new suite of online certification registration and management services over the next several months. Additional details will be communicated via our website as progress is made.
4. What is the last date Prometric can sell Novell vouchers?
   Because Novell wants test centers to be able to accommodate as many existing Prometric voucher holders as possible, they are requesting that Prometric immediately discontinue the sale of Novell vouchers for tests taking place after May 1, 2009. Contractually, Prometric can continue selling vouchers up until April 30, 2009. However, since they won’t be able to deliver Novell exams beyond July, this is likely to cause confusion with candidates and is discouraged.
5. Will the test center compensation or contract with Pearson VUE change?
   We do not plan to make any changes to your existing contract or compensation. All existing contracts between Pearson VUE and the Pearson VUE Authorized Test Centers will be fully honored.
6. How will this affect service levels?
   Through the initial consolidation to one vendor, there may be an initial spike in Novell testing by those wanting to use their Prometric vouchers prior to the cut-over date, but Prometric is staffing up to handle that increased volume. There may be some scheduling delays initially, once the voucher redemption process is communicated. We ask for your patience as we do our best to accommodate those who were scheduled to test with Prometric after the cut-off date. Over time, we expect there to be steady growth in Novell exams and Pearson VUE will scale its channel accordingly, as we continue to build this program.
7. Does Pearson VUE offer all Novell certification exams?
   Pearson VUE has been a test delivery provider for Novell’s computer-based certification exams since 2000. As a result, tests that were available at Prometric are also available at Pearson VUE test centers.
8. Do we need to renew our agreement?
   No. We do not plan to make any changes to your authorized testing center agreement.
9. Why did Novell choose Pearson VUE?

   Pearson VUE was selected for several reasons, including:

   • unparalleled global reach
   • forward-thinking policies and vision of technical resource recruitment
   • ability to scale to new countries with new requirements
   • ability to meet forecasted demands
   • ability to deliver on additional investments to secure Novell’s test delivery technology

   Shifting to a primary vendor strategy worldwide will advance test security through the deployment of advanced security technologies, facilitate the rapid localization of exams around the world, and allow for increased certification scalability and coverage.

10. Who is my Pearson VUE contact?

    For questions about becoming a Pearson VUE Authorized Test Center, please contact our channel sales teams:

    • In the Americas: Call (800) 247-8719 or +1 (952) 681-3000 (toll number) or email: pvamericaschannelsales@pearson.com.
    • In EMEA: Call 0161 855 7000 or email: pvemeachannelsales@pearson.com.
    • In Asia-Pacific: Call +612 9467 6600 or email: pvapchannelsales@pearson.com.
11. Do we need to be exclusive with Pearson VUE in order to deliver Novell exams?
    No. Pearson VUE does not plan to make any changes to your existing contract, and there is no exclusivity clause in the existing Pearson VUE contract. We believe that you will continue to work with the partners that deliver the highest level of service and offer the best technology. Pearson VUE will continually strive to be your preferred vendor of choice.
12. Are you going to continue to offer the same level of service?
    Yes, Pearson VUE is built on a foundation of exceptional service. That will not change.
13. Is Pearson VUE planning on reducing the number of channel partners?
    No, we will continue to offer the opportunity to become a Pearson VUE Authorized Test Center globally to all centers that meet Pearson VUE requirements.
14. Will the requirements for an existing testing center change?
    No, at this time, the requirements for becoming a testing center will not change, but soon we may require enhancements in candidate identification technologies.
15. Will there be any additional hardware requirements?
    No, at this time, the hardware requirements for a testing center will not change, but soon we may require enhancements in candidate identification technologies.
16. How will this change benefit my business?
    Moving to one testing vendor will provide Novell with the ability to focus on program and security development—resulting in more comprehensive, scalable and secure testing programs, and thereby enhancing the value of Novell certifications to employers.
17. Will I require additional staff or hours to run my testing center?
    You still control your own hours, staff and availability.
18. Where will Prometric’s Novell testers go?
    Candidates who have previously tested with Prometric will now be required to take their Novell certification exams at a Pearson VUE Authorized Test Center.
19. How will this affect my capacity?
    Pearson VUE software allows you to increase the number of seats to meet capacity as needed.
20. When can candidates expect to see exam results reflected in the Novell database?
    Depending upon the testing program, Pearson VUE is required to submit exam results to Novell within 72 hours of the exam. It is then up to Novell to post the results. During the transition, if your candidates have problems getting exam results or having them reflected in the Novell’s database, contact Novell customer service at www.novell.com/company/contacts-offices. If you are a partner (reseller), you can also open a case with PRT. You can also find a complete listing of customer service phone numbers at the Pearson VUE website: www.pearsonvue.com/novell/contact.
21. Who is Pearson VUE?
    Pearson VUE (www.pearsonvue.com) is the global leader in computer-based testing for information technology, academic, government and professional testing programs around the world. Pearson VUE provides a full suite of services from test development to data management, and delivers exams through the world’s most comprehensive and secure network of test centers in 165 countries. Pearson VUE is a business of Pearson (NYSE: PSO; LSE: PSON), the international media company, whose businesses include the Financial Times Group, Pearson Education and the Penguin Group.
22. How can my organization become a Pearson VUE Authorized Test Center?
    It’s easy to join the Pearson VUE Authorized Test Center network if you meet our basic requirements. You’ll find an application, technical specifications and instructions on our website at www.pearsonvue.com/pvtc/join.
23. Which other Information Technology (IT) exams can be taken at Pearson VUE Authorized Test Centers?
    Pearson VUE administers a wide variety of popular IT certification tests; including those by Cisco^®, Adobe^®, Citrix^®, CompTIA^®, EMC^®, VMware^® and more, many of which are exclusive to Pearson VUE. In addition, Pearson VUE administers certification and licensing tests for a number of professional and academic organizations. Check our website at www.pearsonvue.com/programs for a complete listing.