TickIT

TickIT

• The TickIT initiative
• Does TickIT impose rules on software developers?
• If my company is involved in software development, must I consider TickIT?
• Why should I seek TickIT registration through BSI?

TickIT is about improving the quality of software and its application.

Almost every business depends on the correct manipulation of information by computer systems. Software is the key to the successful operation of these systems - poor quality software can severely affect efficiency and competitiveness.

To meet customers' quality expectations, software suppliers, including in-house developers, need to define and implement a quality system which covers all the essential business processes in the product life cycle. TickIT guides the developer to achieve this objective within the framework of ISO 9000.

TickIT is a DTI Initiative which addresses the use of the ISO 9000 series of Standards for Quality Systems in Software Development. Its operation is now contracted to BSI Standards (DISC office) by the DTI. BSI is one of the TickIT accredited certifying bodies.

BS EN ISO 9001 is a generic standard for quality systems and its requirements are equally applicable to software development as they are to any other field. The TickIT Initiative cannot and does not change this.

For companies involved in software development, irrespective of the size of the software development function, registration to BS EN ISO 9001 falls within the TickIT Initiative. This means the assessment team must include TickIT assessors in a sufficient number to cover the software development activity. Your certificate will carry the TickIT logo.

BSI is part of the largest and most respected independent certification body in the world, issuing one of the most internationally recognised symbols of quality, the Registered Firm Mark. In addition, BSI is accredited by UKAS to perform certification services under the TickIT initiative.

BSI has been providing independent software assessment and registration services since 1979 and has thus established an impressive client portfolio (ranging from software houses to international software consultancies).

BSI also maintains a significant assessor resource pool, including the largest number of qualified TickIT Lead Assessors and Assessors, who have been through the rigorous training and interview boards set up by the IRCA/BCS.

Under the TickIT Initiative, certification of organisations will be arranged in three year cycles comprising a Quality Management System assessment, continuing assessment visits followed by a re-assessment and re-certification in or about the third year. The initial, continuing and three yearly assessments are all conducted by our TickIT assessors