Frequently asked questions regarding the TMB accreditation printed from the Technology Means Business web site
 
What is the aim of TMB?
 

The aim of TMB is to improve the competitiveness of UK small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) through the provision of effective business-related ICT advice.
 
Why has TMB been set up?
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At present small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are unsure as to who can provide effective business related ICT advice. According to both DTI and Institute of Management research most SMEs are either unable to source an adviser who can help them, or they distrust the advice they receive. TMB provides a recognisable channel of advice, which gives reassurance that advisers have reached the industry standard for giving business-related ICT advice. All TMB accredited advisers are awarded the TMB quality mark.
 
How does TMB benefit SMEs?
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Key features of TMB are:
A recognised and independent accreditation process covering organisations and advisers with integrated business and ICT knowledge and skills
Support from the Government (DTI) and leading ICT organisations
A nation-wide network of accredited advisers
A central directory of advisers with TMB accreditation maintained on the TMB website for promotion to SMEs.
   
Key benefits these features offer to SMEs
Access to high quality ICT advice focused on business needs
Up-to-date advice on the latest technology and links to other sources of useful business information
Reduction in the time and risk associated with choosing an adviser or supplier
Reassurance of the adviser's or supplier's credibility and ability to:
Understand the role of ICT in business
Understand issues facing SMEs
Keep the use of jargon to a minimum
Help integrate ICT into their business strategy
Help identify how the full integration and utilisation of ICT can develop their business
Assist them in managing the process of change
 
When you say SME, what exactly do you mean?
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We use the DTI and EU definition of a small and medium sized enterprise that is a business that employs between one and 250 employees.
 
How will I know if an adviser is TMB approved?
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The TMB Logo acts as a quality mark, this is only awarded to advisers that have proven their competence to provide expert advice on the adoption of business-related ICT advice.
 
What does the TMB quality mark mean to my business?
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Your business will have access to quality assured advice in the specific context of the business application and implementation of ICT. Effective business advice should incorporate ICT issues and that ICT advice should incorporate an understanding of an SME's business issues and needs. By using a TMB approved adviser SMEs can ensure that they receive advice that is relevant to their business needs.
 
Who is eligible to become TMB accredited?
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Advisers are drawn from a wide range of backgrounds. Anyone offering advisory services on business-related ICT advice to SME clients is eligible for this accreditation. This includes:
 
Business support organisations
IT resellers and consultants
Independent consultants
Financial advisers and banks
 
Where can I find these accredited advisers?
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Once an adviser is approved, their details will be placed in the online directory which features on this site ( just enter your postcode above to find your nearest TMB approved adviser) and on the UK online for business site.
 
Will this mean that the cost of advice for small firms will raise?
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Technology Means Business accreditation will add value to the services provided to small businesses by advisers. It is up to the individual adviser whether they wish to charge an added premium for advice once they have gained accreditation. However, to-date consultants have not increased the cost of advice but use the accreditation to add value to their service and to market themselves more effectively.
 

How can I be sure the TMB approved adviser will give impartial advice?

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Some TMB approved advisers are tied to suppliers but have been awarded the TMB quality mark because they have proven their skills to support a client through the whole process of an ICT intervention; from inception through to implementation and continued support. They are only placed on the directory as long as they can demonstrate that there is a business need for the product and that its use will increase the competitiveness and profitability of the SME purchasing it.