Mastering SharePoint Development Exam

An Insight into Microsoft Exam 70-489: Developing Advanced Applications Using SharePoint Server 2013

Microsoft’s certification exams play a pivotal role in validating the expertise of professionals in various technologies. Among these, Exam 70-489 holds significance for individuals aiming to demonstrate their skills in developing advanced applications using Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013. This examination delves into the intricacies of SharePoint development, evaluating a candidate’s proficiency in creating robust solutions that leverage the capabilities of SharePoint Server 2013.

Overview of Exam 70-489:

Exam Structure:

The exam, officially titled “Developing Advanced Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013,” is designed to assess candidates on a broad spectrum of topics. Divided into several sections, it rigorously evaluates participants on their ability to understand business requirements and translate them into effective SharePoint solutions.

Target Audience:

This exam is tailored for developers who have hands-on experience with SharePoint and are adept at utilizing its features to create sophisticated applications. Candidates are expected to have a deep understanding of SharePoint components, including web parts, event receivers, and workflow development.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Design and Implement Search:

This section delves into the intricacies of implementing search solutions. Candidates are tested on their ability to design and configure search strategies, including customizing the search experience, managing search results, and optimizing performance.

2. Implement Business Connectivity Services (BCS):

Here, the focus shifts to Business Connectivity Services, evaluating the candidate’s capability to design and develop BCS models. This encompasses understanding external data sources, creating and configuring BCS models, and implementing custom connectors.

3. Implement User Profiles and Customizing Social Workloads:

Candidates are challenged to demonstrate proficiency in working with user profiles, personal sites, and social feeds. This involves configuring user profiles, implementing custom social features, and optimizing social workloads for performance.

4. Customize Enterprise Content Management (ECM) and Web Content Management (WCM):

This segment assesses the candidate’s expertise in ECM and WCM, covering topics such as document sets, content types, and page layouts. Participants are expected to configure and customize these features to meet specific business requirements.

5. Implement SharePoint Solutions and Features:

This section delves into the nitty-gritty of implementing solutions and features. Candidates are evaluated on their ability to create sandboxed solutions, deploy features, and manage feature visibility and activation.

6. Develop and Implement Managed Metadata Solutions:

The exam explores the candidate’s proficiency in managing metadata, focusing on designing and implementing solutions related to managed metadata, including designing term sets and configuring the managed metadata service.

7. Implement Enterprise Search Using Content Processing and Integrate with Yammer:

This segment scrutinizes the candidate’s ability to implement enterprise search solutions, emphasizing content processing and integration with Yammer. Topics covered include customizing content processing, configuring the search schema, and integrating with Yammer.

8. Monitor and Troubleshoot Custom SharePoint Solutions:

The final section assesses the candidate’s capability to monitor and troubleshoot SharePoint solutions effectively. This involves configuring diagnostic logging, analyzing usage data, and resolving issues related to custom solutions.

Preparation Strategies:

1. Comprehensive Study:

Candidates should embark on a comprehensive study plan, covering each topic outlined in the exam objectives. Utilizing official Microsoft documentation, relevant books, and online resources can contribute to a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter.

2. Practical Experience:

Hands-on experience is paramount. Candidates are encouraged to engage in real-world SharePoint development projects, applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. This not only solidifies understanding but also enhances problem-solving skills.

3. Practice Tests:

Practice tests are invaluable in gauging one’s readiness for the exam. They simulate the exam environment, allowing candidates to identify areas of weakness and focus on improvement. Several online platforms offer practice exams tailored to Exam 70-489.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Microsoft Exam 70-489 is a comprehensive assessment of a developer’s capabilities in creating advanced applications using SharePoint Server 2013. Success in this exam signifies not only theoretical knowledge but also practical proficiency in leveraging SharePoint features to meet diverse business requirements. Aspirants are encouraged to approach the exam with a combination of thorough study, practical experience, and strategic preparation to maximize their chances of success in this challenging yet rewarding certification journey.

Expanding further on Microsoft Exam 70-489, it’s essential to delve into the intricate details of each exam objective and explore the practical implications of the skills tested. This exam goes beyond theoretical knowledge, demanding a nuanced understanding of SharePoint Server 2013 and the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Detailed Examination of Key Topics:

1. Design and Implement Search:

This segment involves a deep dive into the nuances of SharePoint search. Candidates are expected to comprehend the intricacies of the search architecture, including the role of crawl and query components. Understanding how to customize the search experience for end-users, configure result sources, and optimize search performance is crucial. Practical scenarios may include designing search-driven applications and implementing custom ranking models.

2. Implement Business Connectivity Services (BCS):

Business Connectivity Services play a pivotal role in integrating external data into SharePoint solutions. Candidates must not only understand the theoretical underpinnings of BCS but also demonstrate the ability to design and implement BCS models. This involves creating external content types, configuring security for BCS solutions, and implementing custom connectors to diverse data sources.

3. Implement User Profiles and Customizing Social Workloads:

In the realm of user profiles and social workloads, candidates are challenged to go beyond basic configurations. This includes customizing My Sites, configuring profile synchronization, and implementing features like activity feeds. Understanding how to leverage social features to enhance collaboration and user engagement is paramount.

4. Customize Enterprise Content Management (ECM) and Web Content Management (WCM):

Examining ECM and WCM requires a nuanced understanding of document management, content types, and page layouts. Practical scenarios may involve designing document sets to facilitate content organization, configuring document retention policies, and customizing page layouts to enhance the visual appeal and usability of SharePoint sites.

5. Implement SharePoint Solutions and Features:

The implementation of solutions and features is a core aspect of SharePoint development. Candidates should be adept at creating sandboxed solutions, managing feature activation, and ensuring proper versioning. Real-world scenarios may include deploying custom solutions to address specific business requirements and managing the lifecycle of SharePoint features.

6. Develop and Implement Managed Metadata Solutions:

Managed metadata is a critical component in organizing and classifying information in SharePoint. Candidates must showcase their ability to design term sets, implement content types, and integrate managed metadata solutions into broader SharePoint architectures. Practical scenarios may involve developing taxonomy structures to enhance information management.

7. Implement Enterprise Search Using Content Processing and Integrate with Yammer:

This objective emphasizes the holistic approach to enterprise search. Candidates are expected to configure content processing, optimize the search schema, and integrate SharePoint search with Yammer for a unified collaboration experience. Practical scenarios may involve troubleshooting search-related issues and enhancing the relevance of search results.

8. Monitor and Troubleshoot Custom SharePoint Solutions:

Monitoring and troubleshooting skills are crucial for maintaining the health and performance of SharePoint environments. Candidates should be proficient in configuring diagnostic logging, analyzing usage data, and resolving issues related to custom solutions. Practical scenarios may include identifying and rectifying performance bottlenecks in custom-developed SharePoint applications.

Preparation Beyond the Exam Objectives:

1. Stay Updated:

SharePoint is a dynamic platform, and staying abreast of the latest updates and features is essential. Microsoft’s official documentation, community forums, and blogs can provide valuable insights into emerging trends and best practices.

2. Collaborative Learning:

Engage with the SharePoint community to share experiences, insights, and solutions. Participating in forums, attending conferences, and joining user groups can broaden your understanding and expose you to diverse perspectives in the SharePoint development landscape.

3. Continuous Practice:

Building and refining your skills through continuous hands-on practice is indispensable. Consider undertaking side projects or contributing to open-source SharePoint initiatives to gain practical experience and showcase your abilities.

In conclusion, Microsoft Exam 70-489 represents a multifaceted evaluation of a developer’s proficiency in SharePoint Server 2013. Beyond the exam objectives, success in this endeavor demands a commitment to continuous learning, practical application of knowledge, and active participation in the vibrant SharePoint developer community. By embracing these principles, candidates can not only excel in the exam but also establish themselves as adept SharePoint developers in the professional landscape.

Summary:

In overview, Microsoft Exam 70-489, titled “Developing Advanced Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013,” rigorously evaluates developers’ capabilities in creating sophisticated applications using SharePoint Server 2013. The exam is structured around key topics such as designing and implementing search solutions, leveraging Business Connectivity Services (BCS), customizing user profiles and social workloads, enhancing Enterprise Content Management (ECM) and Web Content Management (WCM), implementing SharePoint solutions and features, developing managed metadata solutions, integrating enterprise search with content processing, and troubleshooting custom SharePoint solutions.

Each section necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical foundations and practical application of SharePoint features. Candidates are challenged to not only grasp the intricacies of the platform but also showcase their ability to solve real-world problems and tailor solutions to meet specific business requirements.

Conclusion:

Success in Microsoft Exam 70-489 is more than a validation of theoretical knowledge; it’s a testament to a developer’s ability to navigate the complexities of SharePoint Server 2013 in diverse scenarios. The exam demands a holistic approach, encompassing thorough study, hands-on experience, and strategic preparation. Beyond the examination room, continuous learning, engagement with the SharePoint community, and practical application of skills are pivotal for sustained success in the dynamic field of SharePoint development.

As developers embark on the certification journey, they should view it not just as a means to achieve a credential but as an opportunity to enhance their proficiency, contribute to the SharePoint ecosystem, and establish themselves as adept professionals in the ever-evolving landscape of Microsoft technologies. By embracing a multifaceted approach to learning and preparation, candidates can not only excel in the exam but also position themselves as valuable assets in the realm of advanced SharePoint development.

Certainly, let’s delve into the key words present in the article and provide an explanation and interpretation for each:

1. Microsoft Exam 70-489:

   • Explanation: Refers to a specific certification examination offered by Microsoft.
   • Interpretation: This exam focuses on evaluating the abilities of developers in creating advanced applications using SharePoint Server 2013.

2. SharePoint Server 2013:

   • Explanation: Microsoft’s platform for collaboration, content management, and web applications.
   • Interpretation: The exam centers around leveraging the features and capabilities of SharePoint Server 2013 for developing sophisticated applications.

3. Business Connectivity Services (BCS):

   • Explanation: A SharePoint service allowing integration with external data sources.
   • Interpretation: Candidates are assessed on their ability to design and implement BCS models, showcasing their proficiency in connecting SharePoint with diverse data sources.

4. Enterprise Content Management (ECM) and Web Content Management (WCM):

   • Explanation: ECM involves strategies for managing an organization’s documents, while WCM focuses on creating and managing digital content for websites.
   • Interpretation: Candidates need to understand and apply ECM and WCM principles to customize content types, page layouts, and document sets in SharePoint.

5. Managed Metadata:

   • Explanation: A hierarchical collection of centrally managed terms that can be used to tag content.
   • Interpretation: In the context of the exam, candidates must demonstrate expertise in designing and implementing solutions related to managed metadata.

6. Enterprise Search:

   • Explanation: The capability to search and retrieve information across an entire organization.
   • Interpretation: Candidates are evaluated on their ability to implement robust enterprise search solutions using SharePoint, including optimizing search schema and integrating with external tools like Yammer.

7. Custom SharePoint Solutions:

   • Explanation: Tailor-made applications developed on the SharePoint platform to meet specific business needs.
   • Interpretation: Monitoring and troubleshooting these solutions is a crucial aspect of the exam, requiring candidates to diagnose and resolve issues effectively.

8. Practical Scenarios:

   • Explanation: Real-world situations or problems that candidates may encounter in their professional roles.
   • Interpretation: Candidates are expected to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, demonstrating their ability to solve problems and make informed decisions in a SharePoint development context.

9. Continuous Learning:

   • Explanation: The ongoing process of acquiring new knowledge and skills.
   • Interpretation: Beyond exam preparation, candidates are encouraged to stay updated on SharePoint developments, best practices, and industry trends to remain effective in their roles.

10. Engagement with the SharePoint Community:

    • Explanation: Involvement in forums, conferences, and collaborative platforms related to SharePoint.
    • Interpretation: Actively participating in the SharePoint community enhances a developer’s understanding, provides diverse perspectives, and contributes to a broader professional network.

11. Holistic Approach:

    • Explanation: A comprehensive and integrated strategy that considers all relevant factors.
    • Interpretation: Success in the exam and as a SharePoint developer requires a holistic approach encompassing study, practical experience, and continuous learning.

12. Multifaceted:

    • Explanation: Having many facets or aspects.
    • Interpretation: The exam evaluates candidates from various angles, requiring a broad skill set and a versatile understanding of SharePoint development.

In essence, these keywords collectively paint a picture of the intricate and multifaceted nature of Microsoft Exam 70-489, emphasizing the need for both theoretical knowledge and practical application in the realm of advanced SharePoint development.