The TMB accreditation scheme provides a recognised and widely accepted standard against which the competency, proficiency and professionalism of both advisers and the centres from which they operate are measured. These standards are constantly monitored and the diagnostic tools are regularly reviewed to ensure the TMB standard continues to set the benchmark for this sector of the IT industry.
Benefits of Adviser Accreditation are:

• Advisers can confidently use their TMB status to assure customers they have followed a structured, monitored, supervised programme which endorses their qualification to offer relevant advice to small and medium enterprises searching for IT advice.
• Advisers are assured their status will meet the pre-requisites set by Business Links which receive requests for IT advice in their local areas
• Membership of a unique body of like-minded and qualified individuals playing a key role in the IT sector
• The opportunity to trade ideas and establish a network of contacts
• The ability to maintain an externally verified, constantly reviewed level of accreditation
• The guarantee of meeting a specific requirement for many tendering activities
• Access to expertise which understands the role IT can play in the strategic development of businesses
• Capitalisation on personal and organisational strengths within a business using IT
• Assistance with the realisation of business goals through the recommendation of effective IT solutions
• The guarantee of quality assurance through compliance with strict standards and the demonstration of a high level of competence prior to accreditation. Part of this process is the provision of case study evidence from businesses willing to act as referees.
• The assurance that working relationships are established on professional levels with practical and relevant advice being given in accordance with the culture and needs of individual organisations.
• The guarantee that TMB IT advisers keep abreast of developments in the fast moving world of emerging technologies. This is measured by an annual demonstration of competence against the TMB standard.
• This process ensures the advice given by TMB accredited advisers has kept pace with both business and technological changes. Best practice is, therefore, represented at all times.

The benefits of ensuring the wider acceptance and further development of TMB cover the entire spectrum from UK PLC through the SME community, the adviser body, the Business Support Industry both public and private.
To gain access to these comprehensive benefits, a potential adviser would make contact with an Accreditation Centre initially. The Accreditation Centre provides the initial accreditation programme.

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

Key benefits these features offer to the Adviser Community

•  Confirmation of expertise and knowledge 
• Quality mark that can be used in marketing activities to: 
• Differentiate their services 
• Reassure prospective clients about their broader ICT and business expertise 
• Access to web-based resources and information via the TMB website to support the provision consistent high quality business-related ICT advice 
• Part of a network of professional advisers from a broad range of backgrounds 
• Improved skills, knowledge and approach to supporting clients 
• Continuous Professional Development programme 
• Nationwide promotion of the TMB brand through a network of Partners