The National Outsourcing Association has launched the UK’s first accredited professional outsourcing qualifications and training programmes.  Available immediately and delivered through its newly formed professional development arm, NOA Pathway, the qualifications are accredited by Middlesex University.  There are different qualifications and entry points available, to ensure that every outsourcing professional is catered for.  The programmes range from the entry-level NOA Gateway, which offers learners a solid foundation in outsourcing, through to the masters level NOA Diploma.  A range of training programmes covering all aspects of the outsourcing lifecycle are also being launched.

Introduced in response to demand from its members and following three years of development, the NOA becomes the only UK entity to raise standards by establishing an industry-wide benchmark for quality in outsourcing.  The qualifications and training programmes will help both organisations and individuals achieve best practice in both the supply and use of outsourcing, giving them a competitive edge.

Martyn Hart, chairman of the NOA commented: “Globalisation has accelerated the rise of outsourcing. While this brings opportunities, it also brings some challenges. Until now, there has been no common best practice standard or benchmark for outsourcing and there is no way of recognising whether staff involved know their subject or not.  NOA Pathways helps organisations evaluate suppliers/vendors and enables them to trust the supplier’s outsourcing knowledge, commitment and ability.”