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Standards

In order to maintain its knowledge and expertise and to continue to improve its standards of products and customer services, Pia is a member of several professional agencies and works to maintain relevant industry standards.

Braille Authority of the UK (BAUK)

BAUK is the braille standards setting body for the United Kingdom. It liaises internationally on braille standards and development with similar bodies in other countries. Pia is the only commercial company with full membership of BAUK.

UK Association of Braille Producers (UKABP)

UKABP is the national body for producers of tactile media in the UK, enabling its members to produce braille cost effectively and to agreed standards. UKABP works on behalf of its members to raise awareness of the need for braille and to promote the interests of all members on a fair and impartial basis.

Confederation of Transcribed Information Services (COTIS)

The role of COTIS is to promote the provision of information in alternative formats to print. The organisation has also published an accreditation scheme for transcribed audio material and is working towards the development of similar schemes for other transcribed formats.

British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF)

The BPIF is the principal business support organisation for the UK print, printed packaging and graphic communication industry and is one of the UK's leading trade associations.

Investors in People

Investors in People provides straightforward, proven frameworks for delivering business improvement through people. Pia is extremely proud to have retained IiP status in May 2007.

Positive About Disabled People

The disability symbol is a recognition given by Jobcentre Plus to employers who have agreed to take action to meet five commitments regarding the employment, retention, training and career development of disabled employees.

Company documents

Pia also sets its own standards in managing staff and completing work. Documents that exist in Pia include:

  • Staff handbook – this sets out the principles and procedures applicable to staff members in Pia. It explains what Pia expects of staff and what staff can expect of Pia.
  • QMS – a detailed quality management system that ensures that all work is carried out efficiently, cost-effectively and accurately.
  • Transcription guidelines – Pia has written its own transcription guidelines to ensure that consistency and standards are applied to all services.