TAIT to introduce certification program

Trade Association of IT (TAIT) will launch the TAIT Member Advantage program from March 25, 2005. Members can be classified under four certification levels. They are - Platinum, Gold, Silver and Value Certified. These members will be a part of an end-customer promotion campaign, where they will be encouraged to buy products and services only from certified TAIT members. The program is for systems assemblers, resellers, distributors, repairs and services and rental companies. A registration form has to be filled for the same. 

Under this program, a third party research company will assess TAIT members who wish to be a part of this program. They will be assessed on the basis of various parameters like financials, infrastructure, support facilities, customer feedbacks and other parameters as well. Systems assemblers will get a special boost to compete against OEMs, MNCs and other competitors. 

The reason behind coming up with this is to differentiate quality partners from the rest and to curb unhealthy practices. End customers too will get the confidence while dealing with certified companies. During the phase of certification, all registered members will have to sign a code of conduct agreement. 

This program will have a second phase too, wherein members certified in the first phase will be a part of promotional programs like banners, plaque, web locators, media advertisements and other activities too. The second phase of the program is expected to begin in July 2005. 

AMISHI SHAH

MUMBAI