THE Myanmar Computer Industry Association launched two new programs last month to promote the development of the country’s ICT industry.

In one program, the association will designate computer hardware sales and maintenance firms that provide high-quality service as MCIA Certified Service Centres, association secretary U Thein Htun Pe said.

“The number of such businesses has increased significantly, and we would like to encourage them to operate at a level that earns the trust of customers and keeps them satisfied, as in other countries,” he said. “The certificate will offer proof to the customers that the business can be trusted.”

The program will encourage professionalism within the industry and help ensure that consumers have a positive service experience, he said.

U Thein Htun Pe said the certification process involves reviewing the company’s service record, management experience and technical expertise. Other requirements include up-to-par test equipment and tools, customer service and warranty policies, licensing, and professional appearance for workers and for the business in general.

The association conducted its first field study of about 20 service centres on February 18, and will continue the survey on a weekly basis.

“During the first phase we will provide certificates to promising businesses that have not met all the requirements and we will provide support to help them achieve all the criteria,” said U Thein Htun Pe. “Eventually we aim to start providing graded certificates.”

The program has been started in Yangon and will also be launched in other states and divisions where the association has established branch offices.
Meanwhile, the association launched another program late last month that invited ICT companies, organisations and individuals to register software products that meet certain quality standards.

The association will thoroughly review and evaluate all products submitted for registration to validate their originality and ownership, U Thein Htun Pe said.

“This program will be a good practice for software companies before the introduction of intellectual property rights to Myanmar, and will also help solve any potential disputes about ownership,” he said.