Microsoft has announced a series of changes to its certification program, designed to prepare today’s IT pros for the new challenges of the cloud and close the skills gap. And rather than correspond to specific products – an uphill struggle in a world where cloud apps can change from day-to-day – Microsoft is aiming more towards getting IT professionals and developers up to speed with cloud concepts.

“The changes we’re making will help technology professionals gain the skills they need to plan, design, implement and operate cloud and hybrid solutions today and into the future,” said Microsoft Senior Director of Product Management Don Field in a statement.

Under this program, there will be three tiers of certification. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), and its developer counterpart Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) are expected to become the flagship certifications, reflecting a general level of expertise in Microsoft solutions. A lower prerequisite tier, Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), is designed as a starting point for entry-level job-seekers , while Microsoft Certified Solutions Master is reserved for the best of the best.

The real winners here, Microsoft says, are the hiring managers and CIOs who can be assured that staff and potential hires are up to speed on the evolution of the IT role and the skills that this bold new world requires. And to hammer the point home, the MCSE actually requires periodic recertification, as a way to future-proof the credential and ensure it retains its value going forward.

It’s an interesting counterpoint to other cloud certification programs. EMC Consulting’s cloud certification programs hinge on infrastructure design and data center architecture, and Microsoft’s rivals at Google make their certification Google Apps-specific.

My question is whether or not Microsoft is on the wrong track by freeing its certification program from specific solutions. When an enterprise goes to a solution provider or makes a hire, they want a pro who knows how to work with what they’ve got. Philosophically, MCSE’s solutions-based approach is right on target. But in practical terms, I’m wondering if enterprises will see the value.