PCR Tech and IT retail, distribution and vendor news
IT trade body CompTIA has defended its work following comments from industry members stating the channel should do more to protect consumers.
Derek Jones, MD of dealer support group Synaxon UK, originally wrote the following opinion piece for PCR: ‘Why the IT channel needs its own trade association’.
Brigantia divisional director Iain Shaw then made separate comments, calling on buying and dealer services groups to unite and discuss forming a wider trade association.
In a statement sent to PCR, Mark Williams (pictured), CEO of Pensar and Chair of CompTIA’s UK Channel Community, said: "As the leading non-profit trade association for the IT channel, CompTIA believes it is important to respond to this week’s call by some in the industry for the formation of an industry trade association.
"CompTIA, the IT industry association based in the US and with offices in the UK, Japan, India and South Africa, has an established focus on advancing the global interests of IT professionals and companies through its programs in four main areas:
1. Educating the IT channel: Our educational resources, comprising online guides, webinars, market research, business mentoring, open forums and networking events help our members grow their businesses and become the “best in class”.
2.Certifying the IT workforce: We are the leading provider of technology-neutral and vendor-neutral IT certifications.
3.Advocating on behalf of the IT industry: We bring the power of small- and medium-sized IT businesses to bear as a united voice.
4.Giving back through philanthropy: Our Creating IT Futures Foundation enables disadvantaged and under-represented populations to gain the skills they need for employment in the IT industry.
"Through these efforts, CompTIA ensures the ongoing development and protection of those in the IT industry, but our commitment goes beyond our members and extends to the customers they serve."
Williams added: "The CompTIA IT Business Trustmark validates and identifies the IT companies that have the ability and commitment to engage in sound business practices and provide customers with quality service. The CompTIA Accredit UK Trustmark+ takes this commitment to an even higher level. It is a proven, strong, audited industry credential and the premier benchmark for IT companies wishing to prove their business excellence and adherence to best practices.
"These two trustmarks authenticate and validate the capabilities of the companies that hold them. Current and prospective customers can confidently seek out these companies when seeking technology services and solutions. The trustmarks are just one example of how CompTIA re-invests its resources into the IT channel to help IT businesses and the broader industry expand and grow.
"CompTIA is driven by its members, and led by an elected board of industry professionals. We offer the IT channel and industry an environment where everyone is welcome – vendors and distributors, solution and service providers, educational institutions and government agencies, and many more.
"Join us as we work together to build a stronger IT industry that has far-reaching benefits for all."
