Compass to start local chapters

Kolkata-based Computer Association of Eastern India (Compass) is trying to
open more local chapters in the eastern region. It is holding talks with leading
channel partners in Guwahati, Ranchi and Siliguri for this effort, informed
member of the executive council of the Association Arun Jalan.

The formation of an association's chapter is possible if at least 10
members agree to be a part of it. "Since these cities have very few
partners, we would like to establish our association's presence there, to
safeguard their business interests," stated Jalan.

He elaborated that these members can also participate in Compass-organized
events and exhibitions to get better business from outside the city they are
based in.

That apart, a wider presence of Compass will give it better bargaining power
with the government. Compass is one of the most successful associations with a
corpus of Rs one crore and Rs 10 lakh as cash-in-hand. Life membership to
Compass costs Rs 15,000, while an annual membership is Rs 700.

To propel Compass expansion, two of its executive council members are
visiting various C and D-class cities in the eastern region to give presentation
on the Association, its strength and elaborate on how a unified front will
benefit them.

Compass is currently lobbying with the local government to give an impetus to
IT hardware manufacturing in Kolkata. Though the government has taken a pro-IT
stand, it is focusing more on the software companies, feel partners.

The Association is also trying to enforce payment discipline among its
members by passing a motion that permits only 21-day credit. This issue will be
discussed in the forthcoming Compass meeting. Besides this, it is encouraging
members to avail of the free legal and tax services from authorized advisors,
twice a week.

The association has also set up a legal grievance cell, for members who want
to take legal recourse for any payment default cases. Compass was recently
invited by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to join the association as
an affiliate member.

VINITA BHATIA