BV Sets Quality Initiative for Maritime Sites

Bureau Veritas launched a quality assurance initiative to provide a set of standards for maritime Web sites. The internet certifications program, WebValue, is designed to improve e-business services by identifying web-sites that meet the Bureau Veritas quality, confidentiality and security standards.

Stefan Recher, e-business manager of Bureau Veritas' marine division, said, "With the proliferation of e-business in the maritime industry it is hard for Internet users to judge the quality of a Web site. How does a user tell if an auction site is really neutral or if a trading site is really secure? At the moment there is a lack of confidence in using the Internet as the element of trust is missing. WebValue will provide this trust."

The Bureau Veritas WebValue program is designed to regulate maritime web sites and enable Internet users to make an informed decision when it comes to e-business.

The program consists of initial assessment of the gap between the WebValue standard and the client's practices. Then Bureau Veritas Group consultants evaluate the risks associated with the business activity. Finally, a team of independent Bureau Veritas auditors perform a certification audit.

Companies that have successfully completed the program will be allowed to display the Bureau Veritas WebValue seal of excellence of their web sites. Continuous quality of the certified services is assured through regular audits.