Take the example of Stellcom Technologies, a San Diego-based software development and systems integration firm. Once Stellcom began encouraging its engineers to become Microsoft Certified Professionals, it increased the technical competence of its staff. This in turn enabled them to increase billing rates and also bring in a significant amount of new business. The combination of higher billing rates and additional business opportunities boosted Stellcom’s revenues considerably. Stellcom began its certification program in 1995. Halfway through the year they increased revenues by 5%, generating an additional $300,000 as a direct result of its certification program. In addition to increasing revenues, Stellcom found it easier to attract top recruits and increase employee retention.