The challenge of operating with integrity
November 8, 2013
From the beginning, NAID has held the position that a fully informed customer is the best strategy for improving conditions for reputable secure destruction service providers and the industry overall. This is based on the premise that the only way disreputable operators can function is by preying on customer ignorance and apathy.
The challenge of this strategy extends beyond simply educating the customer; it requires an educated membership. And, in the case of educated members, it goes beyond simply educating them on industry issues. Members also need to be aware of and appreciate the value of the integrity that lies behind NAID’s structure and function. That structure prohibits NAID from coming up with a certification program that is not supported by a Certification Rules Committee to develop specifications, a Certification Review Board responsible for the integrity of the program, and an elected board of directors to approve everything. Such structure and function requires that ethical investigations unfold in a manner that allows all participants due process and that can stand up in court. And, it requires that members realize and insist the organization is operated under legal bylaws and that its corporate structure is completely transparent.
This is a challenge. There will always be customers who will be misled by disreputable service providers. There will always be service providers who do not appreciate what it takes to run an association with full transparency and integrity. It’s just the way it is. Luckily, as long as there are service providers who are smart enough to appreciate and support transparency, integrity and legitimacy, NAID will be there to represent them.