IQA TO HELP IMPROVE UK CUSTOMER SERVICE
The Institute of Quality Assurance (IQA) and the Institute of Customer Service (ICS) have signed an agreement to enable reciprocal membership and joint co-operation between the two organisations. This agreement is particular significance as both organisations have similar goals in closely related disciplines.
The agreement between IQA and ICS ensures:
· reciprocal associate membership
· reciprocal sharing of events and meetings programmes
· reciprocal promotion of the benefits of each other's organisation
· reciprocal website links
· potential cooperation in areas such as research
The IQA and ICS will invite members to contribute to respective programmes of meetings and event. Both organisations will provide the other with the opportunity to contribute to their publications, under the guidance of the respective editors.
'It is very important that like-minded bodies with similar aims work together for the common good,' says Michael Debenham, professional affairs manager at the IQA. 'Bodies like IQA and ICS need to lead the way in sharing knowledge and good practice. It is the way forward for organisations such as ours, who are charged with promoting knowledge sharing.'
Paul Cooper, business development director of the ICS, said, 'As a relatively new institute, which is also growing very fast, we are delighted to have the opportunity to work together with the IQA. Customer service excellence is a quality matter which requires long-term commitment and dedication if it is to be sustainable.'
Photograph: Frank Steer, director general of the IQA and Paul Cooper, director of the ICS, exchanging membership certificates at the recent Q2002 congress hosted by IQA in Harrogate
For more information on ICS
T: 01206 571716
E: enquiries@instcustserv.com
W: www.ics-nto.com
Notes to editors:
IQA is the UK's leading membership body for the advancement of quality practice. A respected contributor to policy issues at a national and international level, IQA is not aligned to any one quality theory or practice. It is a non-profit making organisation, which offers impartial advice and guidance to help shape the future of business and public service.
ICS is the membership body for all customer service professionals. Established in1997, it already has over 140 member organisations, and 3,500 individual members. It provides a comprehensive range of customer service qualifications, networking opportunities, and research.