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A new quality mark, pioneered by ICT Cluster project Accredit UK - News Story
23rd October 2007

       

A new quality mark, pioneered by ICT Cluster project Accredit UK, is aiming to improve customer trust in their IT suppliers is paying major dividends for a Coventry firm.

IT experts and WMita Members JBC Computer Systems Ltd (JBC) are one of the first companies in the West Midlands to use the Accredit UK quality standard, which is being developed specifically to help IT suppliers demonstrate their abilities to potential clients.

JBC are now being specifically measured for the quality of their people, processes and performance in the field of Network Design & Installation.

“We were keen to get involved early on,” said JBC Director Val Jaspal. “Getting certified to the standard is a great opportunity for us to show off and get an edge over our competitors.”

JBC typically work with small to medium-sized businesses. Clients include dentists, solicitors and accountants, businesses who do not have necessarily have in-house IT expertise and so often do not know where to turn or whom to trust.

The development of Accredit UK, a project instigated by the West Midlands ICT Cluster (part of Advantage West Midlands) and backed by the National Computing Centre will help purchasers to decide who to go to for their IT support.

Said Val Jaspal: “We always take responsibility for our work – we explain to clients what they can expect from their spend. It is something that is worryingly uncommon in our industry. We also make sure we explain risks up-front, so there are no nasty surprises.”

From the start, Accredit UK has aimed to improve trust in the world of IT. It was felt that because many purchasers did not know how to spot a good IT supplier from a poor one, they ended up with poor results – or even gave up altogether.

Because some suppliers neglect to consider risk when quoting, the Accredit UK standard makes sure that certified businesses do include it. It is one of many areas in which an Accredit UK-certified business differs from the rest.

“Because clients trust us, they come back for advice in the future,” concludes Val Jaspal. “It is a core part of our business and a reason we have been around for over 25 years when so many others have fallen by the wayside.”

ICT Cluster spokesman Mike Musson said: “If Accredit UK can help IT suppliers to realise the benefits of openness and trust, then it can in turn help purchasers to trust IT. The results will not only help the IT industry prosper, but the economy as a whole.”