I can ask for presentations associated with past projects. However, say for instance its a network based project, I am more confident if my network engineer is certified. Certification establishes a body of knowledge that assures me, to some degree, of competence. Certification certainly demonstrates that this team member has taken the extra steps to establish their professionalism. And because I'm the one that will get the calls if the project falls on its face, I sleep better if I feel confident that my team members are competent people.
Certification brings that level of assurance.
It is an individual choice. A score of years in system development has convinced me there are a lot of folks in our industry that would be best someplace else, and I certainly don't want them on my project team. The handwriting is on the corporate walls that computer technology is changing the ways businesses do business. The allure of the unknown corners of outer space, and the depths of the oceans will continue to drive the technology to new heights that few can imagine. The future of the technology brings excitement to the air, but, if you want to be in the room, you might be called upon to certify that you bring certifiable value that will add to a successful result.