Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data
Centre Accreditation Programme
1
Ordnance Survey
Mapping and Data Centre Accreditation Programme
Introduction
This Accreditation Programme has been prepared as a formal accreditation programme alongside the Mapping and Data Centre (MDC) Agreement (the MDC Agreement) and is therefore a requirement of becoming an MDC. This Accreditation Programme is defi ned in the MDC Agreement itself, and forms a signifi cant part of the
‘assessment criteria’, also defi ned in the MDC Agreement.
Schedule 1 – Defi nitions and Interpretation of the MDC Agreement, states:
Accreditation Programme
means the Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre Accreditation Programme together with the rules of such programme set out in the document, as varied by
Ordnance Survey from time to time.
Assessment criteria
means the criteria used by Ordnance Survey as part of its
Accreditation Programme to assess the Distributor’s performance, whether such criteria are set out in the Accreditation Programme itself or in separate documentation, and in either case as supplied and varied by
Ordnance Survey from time to time.
In the event of any confl ict between this Accreditation Programme and the terms of the MDC Agreement itself, the terms of the MDC Agreement shall take precedence.
Ordnance Survey may amend the terms of this Accreditation Programme document at any time upon reasonable notice. By making the amended document available on the MDC online resource MDCs and Retail Satellites will be deemed to have received notice of the amended Accreditation Programme document.
NOTE: This proposal has been written in line with the Partner Accreditation Programme and endeavours to ensure parity where possible as several MDCs are also Partners under various Specifi c Use Contracts (SUCs).
Ordnance Survey and Mapping and Data Centres
Our relationships with the members of our Partner channel are key to the success of Ordnance Survey: they underpin everything we do. With our partners we can build growth and work to differentiate ourselves from others. Ordnance Survey is committed to continued support of our MDC channel and we can offer valuable benefi ts to help them succeed in this challenging marketplace.
The Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre Accreditation Programme, as with the Partner Accreditation programme launched in May 2008, has been created to help and develop our partners’ changing needs and maximise marketing opportunities. It has been designed through consultation with our MDC partners to ensure that all participants have the required level of professional knowledge that is expected of them by businesses and the general public. It ensures that there is a consistently high level of professionalism throughout the channel, ensuring brand equity for Ordnance Survey and maintaining a strong building platform for all our MDCs.
However, there is one thing that hasn’t changed:
Ordnance Survey’s commitment to its MDCs as key route to market. This commitment is reinforced in its corporate vision:
‘Ordnance Survey and its partners will be the content providers of choice for location-based information in the new information economy.’
Key benefi ts of the Accreditation Programme
Independent research estimates that around £100-billion worth of business in Britain is already dependent on our data. We will continue to focus on our vision to ensure that our mapping and data channel continues to have the highest level of support when dealing within its chosen markets.
This Accreditation Programme adds signifi cant value to the MDC Agreement whilst also providing additional benefi ts to both our MDCs and to Ordnance Survey.
The benefi ts that will be delivered by the programme are detailed within. It illustrates in greater detail the help and commitment that Ordnance Survey may be able to offer our MDC’s whilst clarifying what we expect from them in return. By stipulating commitments from the MDCs, we will drive the value our partners bring to the relationship and will ensure our MDC channel grows and continues to meet the ever-changing needs of the marketplace, ensuring that we continue to control our brand and professional image across Great Britain.
The Accreditation Programme provides an incentive for all MDCs to rise through the designated levels by meeting the additional criteria such as royalty thresholds.
The additional incentives that are provided within the programme include increasing levels of marketing funding, better exposure on the Ordnance Survey website, account management and technical support, access to Business Centre resources and senior management teams, as well as invitations to the MDC and Partner conferences.
The programme has been designed to provide MDCs and potential MDCs with the fl exibility to choose the level of commitment they wish to make to Ordnance Survey.
A business may choose to become a satellite until they establish themselves before they are able to meet some other criteria required at the higher levels. This added fl exibility will help us towards our goal of ‘being easier to do business with’ and offers a greater openness of the channel and its benefi ts to all potential businesses.
3 Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre
Accreditation
As part of the Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre Accreditation Programme, Ordnance Survey has put into place a process that:
• Defi nes and communicates the value of being an Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre.
• Is a clear statement of our commitment to MDCs and the commitment that we expect in return.
• Provides incentives for MDCs to rise through the levels.
• Provides a framework upon which we can deliver real value, both now and in the future, to our MDC community.
• Allows fl exibility for our MDCs to choose the level of commitment they wish to make to Ordnance Survey to meet their needs.
• Ensures that we are fair and equitable regarding the support provided at each level.
Our Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre Accreditation Programme is a tiered membership programme, enabling us to support and work with all partners of all sizes and varying needs and requirements.
NOTE: For the purpose of this document, MDCs includes all parents and satellite outlets.
Each MDC level requires different levels of commitment from both parties, rising from a minimum commitment at the authorised level to the more strategic relationships we have with our premier MDCs. The benefi ts and commitments for each level are detailed in the following section.
NOTE: Authorised MDCs and Authorised Local Authority MDCs are classifi ed as Satellites of a parent MDC and do not require a minimum royalty return.
• Authorised local authority MDC: Following the end of the Local Authority Map Returns Scheme in October 2007, this status provides all local authorities with the opportunity to offer Ordnance Survey Data to their customers, but without making any signifi cant fi nancial commitments. These outlets will be required to offer and have a basic knowledge of OS Sitemap® and
OS Landplan®, plus Internal Business Use (IBU) and Plan, Design, Build (PDB) licensing. They will have a direct business link with a parent MDC of their choice, which will be responsible for setting them up, ongoing training, invoicing and so on.
• Authorised MDC: This status provides businesses with the opportunity to offer Ordnance Survey Data to their customers, but without making any signifi cant commitments. These outlets will be required to offer and have a basic knowledge of OS Sitemap and OS Landplan, plus IBU and PDB licensing. They will have a direct business link with a parent MDC of their choice, which will be responsible for setting them up, ongoing training, invoicing, and so on.
NOTE: Advanced and Premier MDCs must be direct signatories of the Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre Agreement, requiring a minimum annual royalty return of £50 000 to Ordnance Survey.
• Advanced MDC: Has a close working relationship with Ordnance Survey and is committed to growing the partnership. In addition to the support we provide to our authorised MDCs, we have additional benefi ts to help them develop and grow their markets. These partners will be required to offer and have a greater knowledge of Ordnance Survey products and licensing and develop other satellite organisations.
• Premier MDC: Is the MDC with which we have the closest and strongest strategic relationship. In return for the commitment that our Premier MDCs show to Ordnance Survey, we provide additional support and resources as laid down in the ‘Benefi ts by level’
matrix. As a premier MDC, we would also expect this business to be part of Ordnance Survey’s Partner Programme.
Benefi ts by level
Ordnance Survey support Authorised
local authority
MDC
Authorised MDC
Advanced MDC
Premier MDC
Access to MDC Helpdesk during offi ce hours √ √ √ √
Access to MDC online Resource √ √ √ √
Marketing POS support √ √ √ √
MDC news sheet (electronic on Intranet) √ √ √ √
Web positioning and CSC proactive marketing If required √ √ √
Annual invite to regional events (when held) √ √ √ √
MDC Accredited wall plaque √ √ √ √
Secondary positioning on website √
Pre-authorised marketing sales development funding √ √
Annual invite to MDC conference √ √
Complimentary use of Ordnance Survey Business Centre facilities
(One day per year)
(Three days per year)
Professional dedicated account management resource √ √
Priority positioning on website √
Access to partner marketing resources √
Annual business review with Head of Sales √
Invite to mid-year MDC Steering Group √
Annual invite to Ordnance Survey Partner conference √
Monthly Ordnance Survey Partner newsletter √
Customised POS √
Support from Press Offi ce re news releases √
5 Use of Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre logos
The Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre logo authenticates and endorses our business partners in the minds of their customers and potential clients. The logo validates our channel’s relationship and represents access to and a direct connection with Ordnance Survey.
All MDCs are eligible to use the logo, which is mandatory when displayed on MDCs/partners products and services to acknowledge the use of our mapping in digital and printed products.
To ensure parity across the business and conform to the MDC Agreement, the guidelines for using the MDC logo are set out in the document ‘Mapping and Data Centre logo usage guidelines’, which can be found on the MDC online resource under marketing information.
Web Link: http://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/oswebsite/
partnerships/mdc/secure/
MDC online resource
A dedicate web page provided by Ordnance Survey and accessible only to MDCs, the online resource has been designed as a helpful source of downloadable materials and guidance for MDC business. It offers a rich pool of information, including Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre logos and guidelines, downloadable artwork for literature (suitable for co-branding), images and POS information. The information available on the site will enable MDCs keep their customers up to date with the latest products and developments from Ordnance Survey.
Examples:
Technical information on the MDC channel, including:
• daily updates on service availability and technical issues arising;
• updated minimum requirements for hardware and software;
• proposed maintenance downtime if required, latest products and service developments;
• product demonstrators; and
• FAQs and user guides.
Marketing help:
• downloadable artwork for literature;
• ordering POS material;
• operational licensing information, including updates and information on current campaigns; and
• news and updates.
Account management support
Ordnance Survey account managers are there to help you to ensure that the relationships between
Ordnance Survey and our MDC partners continue to fl ourish.
Their role includes:
• Relationship and ongoing business development.
• Specifi c use marketing requirements.
• Licensing queries.
• Business planning for market generation.
• Business consultancy and new business support.
• IT liaison.
• Customer support and interfacing with product development at Ordnance Survey.
• Coordination of MDC activities with Ordnance Survey’s business objectives and corporate goals.
Eligibility
Authorised MDC and authorised local authority MDC levels entitle partners to the MDC Helpdesk, online resource and dedicated help through their parent outlet.
In addition, the Premier and Advanced MDC levels entitle partners to a dedicated account manager and management resource team.
Technical support Eligibility
The Advanced and Authorised MDC levels have full access to the dedicated MDC Helpdesk and MDC online resource.
In addition, the Premier MDC level entitles our partners to further technical help, which may be made available from our Pre & Post Sales Support team through their account manager and dependent on available resources;
this is in response to the increased level of business generated as a partner.
Premier MDCs continue to have full access to the dedicated MDC Helpdesk and MDC Online Resource.
Reviews with Ordnance Survey’s senior management
Ordnance Survey will provide Premier and Advanced MDCs with reviews with the Head of Commercial Sales, Head of Commercial Markets and relevant sector managers. These reviews will offer MDCs the opportunity to discuss at a senior management level market trends and developments, business opportunities and key issues.
Eligibility
The Premier and Advanced MDC level entitles partners to a minimum of one management review meeting per year.
Use of Ordnance Survey Business Centre facilities
Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centres have access to our extensive Business Centre facilities for training, seminars and conferences. The Business Centre currently has an exhibitor foyer, Exhibition Hall, Lecture Theatre, two conference rooms, refreshment area (the Garden Room), Geographic Information (GI) Demonstration Facility, toilet facilities and three training rooms – with a further three breakout rooms. The Centre can be easily adapted for your event, accommodating up to 250 people. We can organise your parking requirements, registration desk and refreshments – from coffees and teas to full buffets or sit down meals (at the partner’s cost) as required.
Eligibility
Whilst we do not offer complimentary use of our facilities directly to our Authorised MDCs, several training sessions and conferences have been organised through parent MDCs in the past.
In addition, the Advanced MDC level entitles partners to complimentary use of the Business Centre facilities for one day each year.
And the Premier MDC level entitles partners to complimentary use of the Business Centre facilities for three days each year.
Note: Business Centre bookings must be organised and agreed through the Ordnance Survey account manager and are subject to availability.
Marketing support
The sales development fund (SDF) is a key element of the overall marketing support provided to MDCs and is used to help support Ordnance Survey related marketing activity. Ordnance Survey implements an overall marketing communications plan to promote the channel, for example, the Benefi ts of licensed data (BoLD) campaign. The SDF enables MDCs to tailor the communications messages from Ordnance Survey to meet the requirements of their customers.
The level of funds made available to MDCs is currently set at 3% of the previous year’s royalty returns to Ordnance Survey.
These funds will only be made available to Premier and Advanced MDCs, are discretionary and subject to availability. Funding will only be approved by prior agreement with the account management team following a structured marketing plan and compliance with the following methodology linked to solid return on investment (ROI).
Methodology for sales development funding:
1 Annual marketing plans with proposed activities broken down by quarterly spend to be submitted via account manager prior to start of each fi nancial year.
2 Pre-activity marketing form to be discussed and assessed by account manager with potential ROI before SDF authorised and a purchase number (POP) is raised by Marketing team.
3 Partner to raise invoice for Ordnance Survey via account manager on assigned POP during relevant quarter.
4 Ordnance Survey to pay invoice.
For marketing programmes expected to deliver exceptional ROI, there is an opportunity to apply for additional development funding. These discussions should be directed through the account management system, where pre-authorisation is absolute and is again subject to availability.
Listing on Ordnance Survey website
Ordnance Survey’s website will list all MDCs (who choose to be listed). This not only provides potential customers with a direct link from Ordnance Survey’s website, but a sales tool from our Customer Service Centre in Ordnance Survey’s head offi ce, where they list and recommend MDCs by location, or by criteria where requested. We are currently recommending about 500 MDCs per month.
The website will be geographically based, highlighting all MDCs in the customer’s chosen location and offering zoom facilities. Dependent on the customer’s product and/or service requirements, only those MDCs offering these services will remain highlighted with others being dimmed back. All MDCs will also have a ‘click on’ facility to list their services and product offerings.
This system has been designed following MDC consultation and ensures that a Premier or Advanced MDC will be given priority, refl ecting the products and services that they can offer the customer.
7 Qualifi cation criteria by level
Criteria Authorised
local authority
MDC
Authorised MDC
Advanced MDC
Premier MDC
Annual revenue return to Ordnance Survey No
minimum
No minimum
Minimum
£50 000
Minimum
£150 000
Minimum of two professionally trained staff √ √ √ √
Minimum product offering, OS Sitemap and OS Landplan (plots and data)
√ √ √ √
Staff trained in at least the following Ordnance Survey licences:
PDB, IBU and Paper Map Copying Licence (PMCL)
√ √ √ √
Minimum business hours (9–5, Monday to Friday) √ √ √ √
Current MDC signage and POS to be fully utilised √ √ √ √
Minimum allocated fl oor space of 3 m by 3 m √ √ √ √
Offer and supply OS Select™ products √ √
Offer PMCL as an agent √ √
Provide an annual marketing plan √ √
Provide designated MDC manager for Ordnance Survey liaison √ √
Offer and supply customer and satellite support √ √
Offer and supply mid-scale products as per DDA √
Attend MDC and/or Partner conference √ √
Dedicated website offering Ordnance Survey MDC products √ √
Attend mid-year Steering Group (when held) √
Qualifi cation criteria
To ensure that all MDCs continue to be ‘centres of excellence’, all MDCs will be required to be certifi ed in their knowledge of all of the Ordnance Survey products they either resell or utilise within their chosen portfolio of products.
Ordnance Survey will provide training and certifi cation to Premier and Advanced MDCs, free of charge, to ensure our Partners’ technical competency across the Ordnance Survey products licensed by the MDC.
The certifi cation will be split into modules and will be dependent on the types of products they wish to resell and how they wish to be listed on our website.
Revenue
To be eligible for one of the levels within the Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre Accreditation Programme, partners must deliver minimum amounts of revenue to Ordnance Survey.
The level that you are assigned to is based upon your actual royalty return to Ordnance Survey or net return to your parent MDC during our last fi nancial year. For new MDCs this will be based upon your business plan and forecast – to be reviewed after six months.
Criteria
• The Authorised and/or Authorised local authority MDCs have no minimum revenue to be delivered to Ordnance Survey as they have a direct relationship with a parent MDC.
• The Advanced MDC level requires a partner to deliver a minimum of £50 000 per year as laid down in the MDC Agreement.
• The Premier MDC level requires partners to deliver a minimum of £150 000 per year.
Employees dedicated to sales of MDC products
All MDCs should have at least two full-time members of staff trained in the sale and use of Ordnance Survey Mapping and Data Centre products and will be required to be profi cient in the awareness of product specifi cation and output of at least OS Sitemap (plots and data), OS Landplan (plots and data) and have a good
understanding of our licensing structure, to include IBU, PDB and PMCL.
Business space and POS allocated to MDC
• All MDC outlets must be contained within a business
• MDC POS (available free of charge through the online resource) to be visual and used effectively within the business premises and website.
• For minimum hardware and software equipment and browser recommendations for the MDC system, please review the document on the ‘online resource’.
This document is subject to change as technical requirements dictate and updated where necessary on the ‘online resource’. An updated copy of this document should be made available to all MDCs when joining the channel.
• Web link: http://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/
oswebsite/partnerships/mdc/secure/docs/
itoverviewdoc.pdf
Ongoing commitment to a professional MDC service
To ensure that all MDCs are fully aware of the standards laid down to become an MDC and continue to be
‘centres of excellence’, Ordnance Survey’s Account Management team will:
• ensure that all potential and new MDCs are either visited, or interviewed, before opening with their intended ‘host’ outlet where necessary; and
• ensure that all MDCs have completed a technical competency module within six months of opening.
Ongoing reviews
To ensure continued professionalism and brand awareness of the MDC channel, we will run a continual
‘mystery shopper’ style monitoring system across Great Britain. This may include outlet visits from
Ordnance Survey staff, telephone enquiries and web browsing.
Compliance with the Accreditation Programme
Failure to comply with any aspects of the Accreditation Programme may result in:
(a) a downgrading of Accreditation (for example, from Premier MDC to Advanced MDC); and/or (b) a material breach of the MDC Agreement entitling
Ordnance Survey to terminate the same.
In any case, any outlet falling below the criteria set out in this Accreditation Programme will be notifi ed along with their parent outlet (where necessary) and given 28 days’
written notice to comply.
Failure to comply after written notifi cation will initially result in a delisting from the website and a further written notice. Continued failure to comply with the minimum
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