Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1180920
STANDARDS Page 22 When One at a Time Just Won't Do Many of us associated with standards are often asked questions like: • Where's the most recent version of Std XYZ? • Can I borrow (keep) this manual or standard? • Why can't you share these on the network? • What do you mean by "I need to use my budget?" These questions revolve around the apparent lack of options for companies and corporate entities in obtaining and main- taining the necessary standards required for ICT in today's environment. As these questions continue to be raised, BICSI can replace current answers like "No" or "It just is" with actual solutions. BICSI is partnered with both IHS Markit and Techstreet as content providers. These partnerships were not formed be- cause of their capability to sell individual items, but rather their core strength of providing all types of information to companies through a variety of options. A commonly used preference is a subscription service, of- fered by each, where browser access is provided to any content that is subscribed to. In addition, as material is re- vised or changed (a more frequent occurrence within BICSI Standards), updates are automatically made available. Other benefits frequently mentioned by current users include: • Eliminates need to visit numerous SDO websites for individual standards (e.g., TIA, NFPA) • Simplified budgeting and billing process • Internet-based standards library available 24/7 • Minimal impact on corporate resources • Provides copyright-friendly access to standards But there are differences, as well. IHS Markit can provide nearly all the standards currently encountered within ICT in most parts of the world, including TIA, ISO/IEC, ASHRAE, NFPA, CSA, BSI and over 370 other associations. And with a global footprint, IHS Markit provides continuous phone support in more than 40 languages. While Techstreet does not have the breadth of coverage, Techstreet does provide additional flexibility when deploying standards to teams. As teams may be project-based rather than ongoing business units, any BICSI product, once added to a cart, can be upgraded to a three-, five- or nine-person license, avoiding the need for a contract. Interested in learning more? Both IHS Markit (ihs.com/bicsi) and Techstreet (techstreet.com/publishers/8903) have dedi- cated home pages for BICSI at the links provided, as well as additional information on all options available. 'Til next time, Jeff Silveira, RITP, CAE BICSI Director of Standards