" ... you can also find more people who can work on the Windows platform than the alternatives."

This too. Used to be that you could take five fairly easy tests after some diligent reading, get a MCSE, and get a raise, better job, foot in the door ... what-have-you.

I've always thought that Linux will develop critical mass when someone figures out how to make five fairly simple tests lead to a certification that will get the below-average IT schmo a raise, better job or foot in the door.