Date:08/08/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/08/08/stories/2007080862972000.htm

Business

‘Common code of ethics is a priority for ITeS’

Special Correspondent

BANGALORE: The National Association of Software and Service Companies (Nasscom) has commissioned a study on how the ITeS/BPO industry can “reach the next maturity level and a dominant position in the global outsourcing industry”, Kiran Karnik, President of the association, said here on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters at the conclusion of the ITeS/BPO Summit 2007, he said among other issues, evolving a common code of ethics, standards and best practices, demanded by global clientele was a priority.

“India has strengthened its position as an offshore destination with an estimated 65 per cent share of offshore IT services and 46 per cent of global BPO services. Uniform skills training remains to be addressed along with career advancements and flexibility in job profiles to deal with the attrition level,” Mr. Karnik said.

Pramod Bhasin, Chairperson, Nasscom ITeS/ BPO Forum, said to create a security framework for recruits to the industry, a National Skills Registry had been created.

“Cyber security training for police officers at cities like Mumbai, Pune, Gurgaon and Bangalore and the Nasscom Assessment of Competence tests, are among the steps taken to improve the quality and employability of human resources,” Mr. Bhasin said.

Expanding the domestic market to neutralise rupee appreciation was another immediate strategy for the sector, he said.