Becta tightens channel links
Government agency to be more proactive in creating long-term IT strategies with channel players
The British Educational Communications and Technology Agency (Becta) has made its first tentative steps towards developing better working relations with the channel, setting an example for the rest of the public sector.
The Department for Education and Skills announced a new role for Becta in September, and the government agency has outlined its aim to take a more proactive role in creating long-term IT strategies with channel players.
This follows the first meeting of its newly appointed board last month.
"Secretary of state Charles Clarke has recognised Becta's role in defining education strategies in IT," Stephen Lucey, executive director of education technology at Becta told CRN.
"Becta has worked with suppliers in contract management, but we want to work in partnership now for planning and development."
Becta will take a businesses-like approach to IT, which will include increased working with the channel. Lucey said the product and services skills and experience of the channel are vital.
"We value the expertise the industry can bring in defining the future, as well as delivering the technology," he said.
"Services, project management and technical support are key. We are drawing up a road map with technical standards."
Becta wants local support for education establishments. "The IT industry can help us achieve this, but we have to find an affordable model," Lucey said.
Steve Smith, business development director at education VAR Ramesys, said: "The problem of IT in education is interoperability of systems, and any way of addressing this is positive.
"Selling into education is not about shipping products but about services and customers' needs."