Accounting software vendor Access has criticised Sage's latest channel accreditation scheme, claiming it is "playing catch-up".

Earlier this month, Sage launched a pilot training and accreditation scheme, which involves all of its channel partners having to complete exams to remain eligible to sell its software (CRN, 9 September).

But Access has claimed the vendor is just reacting to pressure from partners.

Kevin Misselbrook, corporate projects manager at Access, said: "We have had many Sage resellers come to us because they felt they were never properly trained by Sage.

"It is interesting that Sage has finally recognised the benefits of testing the skill sets of its dealers. We have been testing the application knowledge of our dealers for more than 10 years, and they are re-assessed and re-accredited every year."

Steven Thomas, sales consultant at Access VAR Armstrong Consultants, said: "Sage is not the easiest piece of software to set up, yet previously resellers could simply give Sage a call and get a Sage sticker for their windows.

"We couldn't even think about selling Access's software until we had completed its courses."

Sage declined to comment.