The system will be delivered by the newly-formed professional development arm, NOA Pathway, and the qualifications will be accredited by Middlesex University.
The outsourcing industry has a variety of different roles and to ensure that every job is catered for, the NOA will offer different qualifications and entry points. Programmes will range from the entry-level NOA Gateway, offering a foundation in general outsourcing, to a Masters-level NOA Diploma, the Association says.
Martyn Hart, chairman of the NOA, said: “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.”
The NOA says that the qualifications were introduced in response to demands from members and have been in development for three years. It is hoped that introducing best practice will give companies and individuals a competitive edge.
“By offering accredited professional development in outsourcing, NOA Pathway is establishing a recognisable kite mark for quality in the outsourcing industry. In line with the NOA’s commitment to best practice, NOA Pathway was created to increase outsourcing professionals’ expertise, confidence and knowledge of the outsourcing industry and to help organisations’ outsourcing teams stay ahead of developments in the outsourcing world,” Hart said.
“This innovative step to ensuring outsourcing organisations and individuals are fully trained in outsourcing best practice will improve the procurement and selection process, as well as enhance the strategic partnership between end users and suppliers.”
The qualifications being offered are: NOAC – the NOA Professional Certificate, NOAAPC – the NOA Advanced Professional Certificate and NOAD – the NOA Diploma in strategic global outsourcing.
