CompTIA urges standards not to slip

Organisation set to retire some of its Trustmark accolades as it launches new channel standards certification programme

CompTIA is set to replace some of its old Trustmark certifications with new Standards as it launches a new best practice programme for its channel members.

The CompTIA Channel Standards scheme, which is available at no extra cost to members, is the next evolution of its Trustmark programme, and CompTIA claims it has been developed in collaboration with IT professionals, industry thought leaders and technology experts.

However, for those members with the Trustmark stamp, CompTIA stressed it will continue to offer its IT Business Trustmark, but will retire the security, cloud and AccredITUK Trustmarks.

It said members that have earned a Trustmark can maintain their accreditation and use the mark indefinitely, so long as they remain a CompTIA member. The first Standard to be launched is the IT Solution Provider Standard, aimed at providing resellers with a guide to becoming a trusted IT adviser, and outlining business best practice.

CompTIA plans to introduce additional standards focused on managed services, managed print services, cybersecurity and cloud computing throughout the year.

Nancy Hammervik, senior vice president of industry relations at CompTIA, said: "These standards will provide channel partners and channel companies with blueprints for best practices within the IT channel and undoubtedly lead to a stronger, healthier industry as a whole.

"The introduction of CompTIA Channel Standards is a testimony to the larger role CompTIA and its members play in advancing the IT industry and inspiring minds around the world to do more, learn more and be more."

"We are making these important tools available to everyone as a guide for process improvement and differentiation," continued Hammervik. "By taking an 'open-book' approach, CompTIA is empowering the IT channel with the knowledge and ability to see an immediate and positive change in their business that will spread throughout the industry and extend to the customers they serve."

Kristian Wright, managing director of CompTIA partner Inbay, said: "CompTIA is committed to ensuring that the whole of the IT channel is upholding the highest business standards. CompTIA's new Standards provide a new transparent benchmark that IT businesses can work towards to achieve business excellence. They will also help serve as a reference for IT customers to ensure they are getting the best service when purchasing new solutions. Just as food safety standards have driven change in the hospitality sector, driving and upholding these Standards will help the IT industry continue to improve and innovate."