The Better Business Bureau is the most recognized accreditation in North America. When an informed consumer sees the BBB logo on a front door, it typically gives them a sense of security, knowing the company has made a commitment to uphold certain standards. Meeting specific accreditation criteria should be achievable for most well-managed organizations and gaining the endorsement of a respected industry association can be invaluable to your business.

These credentials can serve an even higher purpose for service-oriented organizations by creating a blueprint for making operational improvements. The most effective programs include roadmaps or detailed lists of the activities required to receive these designations. Those are valuable resources for business owners who want to work within guidelines that will ensure their success. By setting baseline requirements, it encourages the positive changes many businesses need to compete, to survive and to thrive. A well-established accreditation process incorporates industry best practices which encourages the management team to address long delayed issues that may have a negative effect on productivity or profitability.

The same standards of excellence can help IT channel organizations improve their operations and revenue opportunities. Success requires more than dedication and hard work. Those who carefully research and implement industry best practices within their plans typically fare better than those who don’t.

IT firms need to develop their own “personalities” and portfolios, but “best in class” businesses may not differ substantially on their operations side. Their core services and the processes used to deliver them are fairly standardized. So why should solution providers waste their valuable time, energy and resources replicating what others have already perfected? With a few exceptions, they shouldn’t. CompTIA, with the help of its peer community members and other industry leaders, created a number of options that lower the learning curve and reduce the time it takes to build a successful IT services business. 

Identify True Industry Best Practices

Like any other organization, solution providers have to utilize their resources effectively. They should build solid business plans, continually evaluate their performance and take advantage of the opportunities that come their way ─ as well as the breaks that result from their own demand generation activities. Successful providers automate everything they can and hire new employees when financially viable (dictated by utilization rates, sales and SLA needs). With a firm handle on their IT services metrics and monetary situation, MSPs and VARs can avoid the difficulties

The CompTIA Trustmark programs ensure that solution providers have these recommended best practices in place. While individual requirements vary between the five business credentials, each requires applicants to adhere to a prescribed set of industry standards and document their specific plans. In effect, Trustmarks validate the commitment your organization makes to its clients. Solution providers with these highly-respected endorsements are typically better positioned from both an operational as well as a financial perspective. By aligning their business with industry standards and ensuring that specific controls are in place, the company will be primed for growth—and properly prepared to weather economic or market setbacks.

Credentials for the IT Channel

CompTIA offers three of the most recognized business accreditations designed exclusively for the IT channel covering Managed Services, Managed Print and IT Security. There are two additional Trustmarks offered for UK-based channel organizations and we have some new options in store for 2015.

Each of these business credentials gives IT professionals the ability to increase their marketability, efficiency and productivity within their markets and disciplines. The true value of these programs comes from the accreditation process itself, as applicants assess their adherence to industry standards and make the appropriate changes. Before receiving a Trustmark, the IT firm has to meet the control criteria listed for that specific credential. The hardest part for many experienced and knowledgeable solution providers is ensuring that each procedure and plan is properly documented.

CompTIA Trustmarks are given only to those who have demonstrated a commitment to professionalism and quality customer service. Business credentials are that key differentiator that solution providers need in today’s increasingly competitive market. The industry-recognized logos and marketing materials CompTIA provides can help build your brand and the standards they represent will ensure you have what you need to close and retain more clients.

Are you looking for that “badge of honor” to help grow your business? Learn more about the Trustmark program and our growing list of support and preparation materials today. You’ll surely appreciate what a true IT business credential can do to boost your success.