I like the idea of an independent testing/certification organization. This is how members of some other professions demonstrate their competencies. While probably not a requirement, we should keep in mind that many/most of these same professions require memberships involving annual dues, much higher (and required) testing processes and costs, etc.

I still don't see how this directly (or just) relates to Microsoft. "They [Microsoft] have too much incentive to cheat." I disagree. I would be interested in knowing how Microsoft's certification program -- which I've been through and find not perfect by any means but very good -- is different than Oracle's, Cisco's or any other such company. Besides making a profit, it seems to me that what they want is competent professionals eager to use and promote their technologies. And what we want is the opportunity to do so.