In today’s technology-driven world, cloud computing has transformed how organizations manage their IT infrastructure. As enterprises migrate from traditional on-premise systems to the cloud, there is a growing demand for professionals who possess expertise in managing and securing cloud environments. Among the many certifications available, AWS certifications are recognized globally for their focus on Amazon Web Services, the leading cloud platform. These certifications serve as a benchmark for cloud expertise and are highly sought after by both employers and professionals.
AWS certifications range from foundational to professional levels, addressing various cloud computing roles. Whether it’s cloud architecture, operations, development, or security, AWS has a certification tailored to meet industry demands. As businesses increasingly adopt cloud-first strategies, validating your cloud skills with an AWS certification can significantly enhance your career prospects. It proves not only your technical abilities but also your commitment to continuous learning in a rapidly evolving field.
In this section, we will explore the significance of AWS certifications, particularly the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, and how they lay the foundation for advanced learning in cloud security through certifications like the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP). This synergy between AWS and CCSP represents a powerful combination that can elevate your technical profile and open up advanced career opportunities in cloud security.
Understanding AWS and the Role of Certification
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the leading cloud platform globally, offering an extensive suite of services that include computing power, storage, networking, databases, analytics, machine learning, and more. It provides scalable and cost-effective solutions for businesses of all sizes. From startups to multinational corporations, AWS enables organizations to innovate and scale without the limitations of physical infrastructure.
AWS certification is a validation of your expertise in utilizing AWS services to build secure, scalable, and efficient cloud solutions. These certifications are categorized into foundational, associate, professional, and specialty levels. The foundational level is ideal for individuals who are new to the cloud, while the associate and professional levels cater to more experienced professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge. Specialty certifications focus on specific areas such as security, data analytics, and machine learning.
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is the most accessible entry point into the world of AWS. It is designed for individuals who may not have a technical background but want to understand the AWS cloud environment. It covers the core concepts of cloud computing, AWS services, pricing models, and basic security. While it does not delve deeply into technical configurations, it equips professionals with the vocabulary and conceptual understanding needed to collaborate effectively with technical teams.
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner: Building a Solid Foundation
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is a great starting point for anyone looking to build a career in cloud computing. It is particularly valuable for business professionals, sales teams, project managers, and those involved in procurement or financial planning within cloud projects. It offers a broad overview of AWS services and prepares individuals to engage in more technical training and certifications.
This certification is ideal for individuals who need to communicate effectively about cloud solutions but do not necessarily design or implement them. For example, a project manager overseeing a cloud migration project will benefit greatly from understanding key AWS concepts. Similarly, a financial analyst tasked with estimating cloud costs needs to comprehend AWS pricing structures and billing models.
The exam for this certification typically covers the following domains: cloud concepts, AWS core services, security and compliance, pricing, and support. It focuses on the “what” and “why” of AWS services rather than the “how.” Candidates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the benefits of cloud computing, how AWS supports these benefits, and how to make informed decisions about cloud strategies.
Preparing for this exam requires familiarity with AWS terminology and a high-level understanding of how AWS services integrate to solve business problems. Many candidates find it helpful to study using cloud-specific training resources, practice exams, and lab environments. Completing this certification not only builds confidence in working with AWS technologies but also signals to employers that you have a serious interest in cloud computing.
The Growing Demand for Cloud Professionals
The global demand for cloud professionals continues to rise as more organizations embrace digital transformation. Cloud computing has become central to business continuity, innovation, and operational agility. From hosting websites and applications to managing big data and enabling artificial intelligence, cloud platforms like AWS are driving technological advancement across industries.
Organizations are seeking skilled professionals who can help them harness the full potential of the cloud while managing risks and ensuring security. As cloud adoption increases, so does the complexity of managing cloud environments. This complexity creates a strong demand for certified professionals who can design, deploy, and maintain secure and efficient cloud solutions.
According to industry reports, AWS certification holders often enjoy better job prospects, higher salaries, and faster career progression. Employers view AWS certification as a reliable indicator of technical competence and hands-on experience. Whether you are an aspiring cloud architect, DevOps engineer, or IT manager, having an AWS certification can significantly improve your visibility in the job market.
The certification also plays a crucial role in professional credibility. In a competitive environment where many professionals claim cloud expertise, certification serves as proof of knowledge and skill. It assures employers and clients that you have invested time and effort in mastering the platform and are committed to upholding industry standards.
Positioning for Advanced Cloud Roles
While the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner is an excellent starting point, it is often the first step on a longer journey of professional development. Individuals who earn this certification often go on to pursue associate-level certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, AWS Certified Developer – Associate, or AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate. These certifications build on the foundational knowledge and delve into specific job roles and technical implementations.
One of the most impactful ways to extend the value of your AWS certification is to complement it with a security-focused credential like the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP). As cloud security becomes a top priority for organizations, having specialized knowledge in this area can set you apart from other cloud professionals.
The CCSP certification, offered by a leading cybersecurity organization, is designed for professionals with experience in information security and cloud technologies. It validates advanced knowledge in securing cloud environments, making it an ideal complement to AWS certifications. Together, these certifications demonstrate a well-rounded expertise in both cloud operations and cloud security.
Professionals who combine AWS certifications with CCSP are well-positioned to take on roles such as cloud security engineer, cloud architect, and cybersecurity consultant. These roles require a deep understanding of how to design and protect cloud-based systems, ensure compliance with industry standards, and manage risks associated with cloud adoption.
Bridging Business and Technology with Cloud Knowledge
One of the most powerful aspects of AWS certification is its ability to bridge the gap between business strategy and technical implementation. Cloud technologies are not just the domain of IT professionals; they have a profound impact on business models, operational efficiency, and customer experience. Professionals who understand both the technical and business aspects of cloud computing are invaluable to organizations undergoing digital transformation.
For example, a business analyst with AWS certification can collaborate more effectively with developers and architects to align technology initiatives with business goals. A marketing manager with cloud knowledge can better understand how cloud platforms support data analytics and customer segmentation. A finance professional can optimize cloud spending and forecast costs more accurately by understanding AWS pricing structures.
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is particularly useful for professionals in non-technical roles who want to stay relevant in a cloud-centric world. It empowers them to participate in cloud discussions, evaluate technology options, and make informed decisions that support strategic objectives. As cloud adoption becomes universal, the ability to speak the language of the cloud is becoming a critical business skill.
This foundational understanding is also essential for professionals planning to advance into more technical roles. It serves as a stepping stone to more complex certifications and provides the context needed to grasp advanced cloud concepts. By starting with the basics and gradually building up expertise, individuals can develop a comprehensive understanding of cloud computing and its impact on modern business.
Deep Dive into the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) Certification
As cloud adoption becomes mainstream, securing cloud environments has emerged as a critical concern for organizations. While AWS offers robust services and tools, securing those services requires more than just platform knowledge—it requires a deep understanding of cloud security principles, frameworks, and best practices. This is where the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) certification stands out.
Offered by ISC², the CCSP is a globally respected credential that validates your ability to design, manage, and secure cloud environments. When combined with AWS certifications, it empowers professionals with both the technical and security expertise required to thrive in modern cloud-based roles.
What Is the CCSP Certification?
The CCSP (Certified Cloud Security Professional) certification is designed for experienced IT and security professionals seeking to demonstrate their cloud security expertise. Jointly developed by (ISC)² and the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA), it provides a vendor-neutral framework, making it relevant across multiple cloud platforms including AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.
To qualify for full CCSP certification, candidates must have:
- At least five years of paid, full-time IT experience
- Three years in information security
- One year of experience in at least one of the six CCSP domains
If you pass the exam but don’t yet meet the experience requirement, you can become an Associate of (ISC² ² and earn full certification once the required experience is acquired.
The Six Domains of CCSP: A Comprehensive Security Framework
The CCSP is built on six knowledge domains. These domains cover everything from cloud architecture to legal and compliance responsibilities.
1. Cloud Concepts, Architecture, and Design
This foundational domain covers:
- Cloud computing definitions and service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)
- Cloud deployment types (public, private, hybrid, community)
- Cloud reference architectures and virtualization
- Secure cloud design principles
2. Cloud Data Security
This domain emphasizes:
- Data lifecycle and classification
- Secure data storage and disposal
- Access control and encryption
- Data integrity, confidentiality, and availability
- Cloud data loss prevention (DLP)
3. Cloud Platform and Infrastructure Security
Here, you’ll study:
- Securing physical and virtual infrastructure
- Network and compute security in cloud environments
- Identity and access management (IAM)
- Configuration and patch management
- Cloud-specific vulnerabilities and countermeasures
4. Cloud Application Security
This domain covers:
- Secure software development life cycle (SDLC)
- Application security testing and code review
- API security in cloud environments
- CI/CD pipeline security
- DevSecOps principles
5. Cloud Security Operations
This includes:
- Logging and monitoring in cloud environments
- Threat modeling and incident response
- Business continuity and disaster recovery (BC/DR)
- Security tools, technologies, and automation
6. Legal, Risk, and Compliance
Focus areas include:
- International privacy laws and regulatory frameworks (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA)
- Cloud contract and SLA considerations
- Legal challenges in cross-border data flow.s
- Risk assessment and mitigation strategies
Each domain is weighted in the exam, with Cloud Data Security and Cloud Security Operations typically receiving more emphasis.
CCSP vs. AWS Certification: What’s the Difference?
AWS certifications—such as the AWS Certified Solutions Architect or AWS Security Specialty—focus on platform-specific skills within the AWS ecosystem. They teach you how to use AWS tools and services to build and manage cloud environments.
On the other hand, the CCSP is vendor-neutral and provides a comprehensive understanding of cloud security concepts that apply across all platforms, including AWS, Azure, and GCP.
How CCSP Strengthens Your AWS Knowledge
The synergy between AWS and CCSP certifications creates a unique advantage. Here’s how:
1. Understanding the Shared Responsibility Model
AWS emphasizes the Shared Responsibility Model—AWS secures the infrastructure, while customers secure their applications and data. CCSP goes deeper, teaching you how to fulfill your part of that model with risk assessments, secure configurations, and data governance strategies.
2. Designing Secure Cloud Architectures
AWS certifications show you how to design scalable systems. CCSP teaches you how to embed security into that architecture from day one, including secure APIs, IAM policies, and encryption practices.
3. Cloud Governance and Compliance
AWS introduces tools like AWS Config and CloudTrail. CCSP complements this by training you to develop and maintain compliance frameworks, address legal requirements, and prepare for audits.
4. Security Incident Response CCSPs’
In-depth training on incident response pairs perfectly with AWS services like GuardDuty, CloudWatch, and Security Hub, helping you detect, respond to, and recover from cloud-based threats efficiently.
Who Should Get CCSP?
The CCSP is ideal for professionals in roles such as:
- Cloud Security Architect
- Security Engineer
- Cloud Compliance Analyst
- IT Risk Manager
- DevSecOps Lead
- CISO or Security Director
If you already hold an AWS certification and are looking to expand into cloud security leadership, CCSP is a logical next step.
The Benefits of Earning the CCSP
1. Career Advancement
CCSP-certified professionals are in high demand across industries. Many CCSP holders take on leadership roles or become specialized consultants.
2. Higher Salary Potential
According to recent salary surveys, CCSP professionals often earn 20–30% more than their non-certified peers in similar roles. Combined with AWS certification, the salary potential is even greater.
3. Global Recognition
Unlike AWS, which is tied to a specific platform, CCSP is recognized internationally and is applicable in multi-cloud and hybrid environments.
4. Proves Deep Security Expertise
CCSP is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous cloud security certifications. It demonstrates to employers that you understand complex security frameworks, legal issues, and the practical challenges of securing cloud infrastructure.
How to Prepare for the CCSP Exam
Prerequisites
Before attempting the CCSP exam, you should:
- Have a strong understanding of cloud concepts
- Be familiar with AWS or another cloud platform.
- Possess a background in cybersecurity or IT governance.e
Study Resources
- Official (IS² CCSP Study Guide
- CCSP All-in-One Exam Guide by Daniel Carter
- Cloud Security Alliance’s Cloud Controls Matrix (CCM)
- Online Training Platforms: LinkedIn Learning, Pluralsight, Coursera, Udemy
- Practice Exams: Essential for understanding the format and difficulty
Tips for Success
- Focus heavily on real-world applications and risk-based thinking.
- Study legal frameworks and international compliance challenges.
- Join CCSP forums and study groups to learn from peers.
- Allocate at least 3–4 months of consistent study time.
Combining AWS + CCSP: A Strategic Advantage
With both certifications in hand, your skill set spans the technical implementation of cloud solutions (via AWS) and the security oversight and governance required to protect those solutions (via CCSP).
Use Cases Where AWS + CCSP Shine:
- Secure Cloud Migration Projects
- Designing Multi-Cloud Security Architectures
- Implementing Zero Trust in the Cloud
- Leading Compliance Initiatives (e.g., SOC 2, ISO 27001)
Whether you’re working as a consultant or embedded within an organization, this combination enables you to address both business needs and technical risks, which is a rare and valuable capability.
The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) certification fills a crucial gap for cloud professionals who want to go beyond platform knowledge and become true cloud security experts. While AWS certifications are essential for operating and optimizing cloud infrastructure, the CCSP provides the security framework needed to protect those environments at an enterprise level.
Together, AWS and CCSP form a powerful combination that increases your versatility, credibility, and marketability in the cloud computing industry. Whether you’re aiming to lead cloud security strategy or transition into more senior roles, CCSP is a strategic move forward.
Career Opportunities and Real-World Applications of AWS + CCSP Certification
Earning both AWS certifications and the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) credential is more than just adding titles to your resume — it’s a strategic career investment that opens doors to high-impact roles across industries. As businesses continue to adopt cloud technologies, the demand for professionals who can design, deploy, and secure cloud environments has grown rapidly.
In this part, we’ll explore how AWS and CCSP together open up real-world roles, impact your salary, and offer long-term career potential. We’ll also look at how to position yourself for maximum return on your certification journey.
The Power of AWS + CCSP in the Job Market
Combining AWS’s technical depth with CCSP’s security breadth makes you uniquely positioned to take on strategic cloud roles. Employers are increasingly seeking professionals who not only understand how to build cloud infrastructure but also how to secure and govern it. The demand for hybrid skills in cloud engineering and security continues to grow, and roles that focus on security-first cloud architecture are becoming more prominent than traditional IT positions.
Professionals who carry both technical certifications and governance-focused credentials are rare, making their skill set especially valuable in today’s market.
In-Demand Roles for AWS + CCSP Professionals
One of the most common roles for professionals with AWS and CCSP is the Cloud Security Architect. This role involves designing secure, scalable cloud environments that comply with internal and external regulations. Professionals in this position use AWS services like IAM, VPC, and KMS while also applying risk management and compliance practices from CCSP.
Another growing role is the Cloud Compliance and Risk Analyst. These individuals ensure that cloud deployments follow relevant laws and internal policies. They often use AWS audit tools like CloudTrail and Config while leveraging CCSP knowledge on governance, privacy, and risk frameworks.
The DevSecOps Engineer is also in high demand. This role integrates security throughout the software development lifecycle. These professionals work with AWS development tools while applying secure coding practices and automated testing principles informed by CCSP.
Security Consultants who specialize in cloud environments are also benefiting from dual certification. They work across platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP, advising clients on secure migrations, policy enforcement, and architecture. Their CCSP training helps ensure their recommendations are aligned with best practices in data protection and risk management.
For more experienced professionals, these certifications can even support a move into executive leadership. Cloud-focused CISOs are increasingly common, especially in digital-first companies. These leaders use their understanding of AWS technologies and security strategy to make informed decisions on cloud governance and enterprise risk.
Salary Potential with AWS and CCSP Certifications
Professionals who hold either AWS or CCSP typically see a significant salary boost. When combined, these certifications can lead to even greater earning potential. Depending on experience, location, and industry, individuals with both credentials often earn well above the average for IT roles. Salaries for roles like Cloud Security Architect and DevSecOps Engineer can range from six figures to the upper-tier earnings of technology professionals.
Those who take on consulting or executive-level roles may command even higher compensation. Organizations are willing to pay a premium for professionals who understand both cloud technology and how to secure it properly within the constraints of real-world regulations.
Industries That Value AWS + CCSP Skills
The value of AWS and CCSP certifications extends across multiple industries. In financial services, professionals with these credentials help ensure cloud infrastructures are compliant with regulations like PCI-DSS and support secure payment processing. In healthcare, they play a crucial role in building HIPAA-compliant environments and protecting patient data.
Government and defense agencies also rely on these skills to meet security frameworks like FedRAMP and implement Zero Trust principles. In the tech sector, companies use cloud security professionals to safeguard SaaS platforms and maintain customer trust. Even in retail and e-commerce, certified professionals are needed to protect consumer data, prevent fraud, and maintain secure transaction environments.
Real-World Scenarios Where AWS + CCSP Skills Matter
Professionals with both AWS and CCSP expertise often find themselves leading critical projects. For example, during a cloud migration for a financial institution, an individual might apply AWS knowledge to provision resources and transfer databases while using CCSP principles to assess risks, enforce encryption, and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
When building a secure API platform, a professional might rely on AWS tools like API Gateway, Lambda, and IAM to manage access and deployment. Simultaneously, they would apply CCSP practices to incorporate secure development models and industry-standard authentication methods.
In the event of a cloud security incident, someone with both certifications would be prepared to use AWS monitoring tools like GuardDuty and CloudTrail while following CCSP-guided incident response protocols. They would also be capable of documenting and reporting the incident by regulatory standards.
How to Position Yourself for Maximum Career Impact
To fully leverage these certifications, professionals should clearly highlight both AWS and CCSP on their resumes and professional profiles. Structuring your experience to show how you combine technical execution with security oversight can attract attention from recruiters and hiring managers.
During interviews, framing yourself as someone who can bridge the gap between development teams and compliance officers can set you apart. Most organizations struggle to align cloud engineering with governance, and positioning yourself as the solution to that problem makes a compelling case.
It also helps to gain practical experience through cross-functional projects, such as leading cloud security assessments or participating in compliance audits. Even internal initiatives that require collaboration between IT, security, and legal departments can provide valuable talking points.
Finally, staying current is essential. The cloud landscape evolves quickly, and continuing to learn through whitepapers, webinars, and professional communities will ensure that your certifications stay relevant.
The Strategic Edge: AWS + CCSP
Holding both AWS and CCSP certifications positions you as more than just a technologist. It marks you as a strategist who understands how to balance technical performance with security, compliance, and risk management. This skill set is critical for organizations that want to scale securely in the cloud.
It demonstrates your ability to build robust cloud systems, protect sensitive data, and align with industry frameworks — all while helping your organization stay ahead of evolving threats and regulations. You’re not just implementing solutions; you’re building secure systems that last.
In today’s cloud-driven economy, combining AWS and CCSP credentials sets you apart in a competitive job market. It qualifies you for roles that span from engineering to executive leadership, all while enabling you to make informed decisions about security and compliance in a cloud-first world.
As organizations increasingly prioritize security by design, professionals who can understand both cloud architecture and regulatory risk will become indispensable. In Part 4, we’ll provide a practical roadmap to earning both AWS and CCSP certifications — including how to plan, study, and balance certification prep with a busy schedule.
Your Roadmap to Earning AWS and CCSP Certifications
Now that we’ve explored the value of combining AWS and CCSP certifications — from job roles and salary potential to real-world applications — it’s time to break down how to earn them.
Many professionals hesitate to pursue multiple certifications due to time, cost, or confusion about where to start. But with a focused strategy and smart planning, you can efficiently achieve both certifications, even while working full-time.
This final part lays out a practical step-by-step roadmap to help you plan, study, and succeed.
Choosing the Right AWS Certification Path
AWS offers several certifications, but not all are required if your goal is to complement CCSP with cloud-specific skills. Start by deciding between two common entry points.
If you’re newer to cloud or want foundational knowledge, begin with the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner. It provides a broad overview of AWS services, pricing, and architecture — ideal for building confidence.
If you already have some technical experience or want to move into security, the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is a better starting point. This cert focuses on core services, architectural best practices, and workload planning — all highly relevant for CCSP integration.
After that, many professionals move on to the AWS Certified Security – Specialty certification. This advanced exam dives deep into data protection, identity, and security monitoring in AWS. It’s especially useful for bridging into CCSP’s broader security topics.
When to Pursue CCSP
Unlike AWS certifications, which are vendor-specific, CCSP is vendor-neutral and ideal once you’ve gained basic hands-on cloud experience. You’ll need at least five years of total IT experience (including one year in cloud security) to officially earn the certification, although you can take the exam before meeting that threshold.
CCSP is best pursued after achieving at least one AWS certification and some real-world exposure to cloud environments. This way, the theoretical knowledge in CCSP maps to something tangible.
If you’re already experienced in cloud and security, you can pursue both AWS and CCSP certifications in parallel. But for most professionals, a staggered approach yields better retention and real-world application.
Sample Timeline to Get Certified in Under a Year
The actual time you’ll need depends on your experience, learning style, and schedule. That said, many professionals find success using a phased approach over 8 to 12 months.
Start with 6 to 8 weeks of study for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate. Focus on understanding core services like EC2, S3, IAM, VPC, and CloudFormation. Practice labs are essential to reinforce what you read.
Then move to the AWS Security Specialty. This typically takes 8 to 10 weeks, depending on your familiarity with IAM policies, encryption, and incident detection. This phase builds security-specific knowledge that transitions nicely into CCSP topics.
Allocate about 10 to 12 weeks to prepare for the CCSP exam. Study domains such as cloud architecture, data lifecycle management, platform security, and compliance. At this point, your AWS knowledge will help contextualize many CCSP concepts.
In total, this approach lets you complete three high-value certifications in less than a year with consistent weekly study.
Study Tips for Working Professionals
Time management is critical when juggling certifications with full-time work. Set a weekly study goal rather than a daily one. For example, aim for six hours per week and break it into three manageable two-hour sessions.
Use a combination of official training materials, third-party video courses, and hands-on labs. AWS Skill Builder, A Cloud Guru, and (ISC)²’s official CCSP guide are great resources. Don’t just read — apply what you learn in a lab environment or sandbox account.
Regular review is essential. Schedule time to revisit earlier topics weekly, especially for memorization-heavy areas like CCSP’s legal and regulatory domain.
Practice exams help you test your readiness and reduce exam-day anxiety. Take at least two full-length practice tests for each certification to identify gaps and fine-tune your time management.
Balancing Certification with Career Growth
While certifications are valuable, they should be aligned with your career goals and daily work. Try to align your study topics with on-the-job responsibilities. For example, if you’re working on an access control project, focus on IAM and related security policies during that week.
Don’t study in isolation. Join online communities, forums, and LinkedIn groups where others are also preparing for AWS or CCSP. Peer discussion often helps reinforce key topics and keeps motivation high.
Consider documenting your learning journey on LinkedIn or a blog. Not only does this help retention, but it also signals to potential employers your commitment to cloud security and continuous learning.
Getting the Most from Both Certifications
Once certified, use your credentials as a springboard — not a finish line. Certifications are conversation starters. Add them to your resume, email signature, and LinkedIn profile, but also seek opportunities to apply the knowledge right away.
You might lead a cloud risk assessment, suggest improvements to IAM policy management, or propose a cloud governance framework. These actions build trust and position you as a strategic asset in your team or organization.
Stay current. Renew your AWS certifications every three years and your CCSP every three years with continuing professional education credits. This ensures your skills remain relevant and keeps you engaged with new developments in cloud and security.
Final thoughts
Earning both AWS and CCSP certifications may seem ambitious, but with a focused roadmap, it’s absolutely achievable — even for busy professionals. These certifications complement each other perfectly, blending deep cloud expertise with broad, strategic security knowledge.
More importantly, they set you up for real career impact. Whether you’re looking to level up in your current role, transition into cloud security, or pursue leadership positions, the AWS + CCSP combination equips you with the credibility and confidence to take that next step.
If you’re serious about cloud security, there’s no better time to start. Plan your timeline, stay consistent, and start building a certification journey that pays off in real-world results