ASCII is the oldest and largest group of independent information technology (IT) solution providers, integrators, managed service providers (MSP) and value added resellers (VAR) in the world. It was founded in 1984.

Origin

The original ASCII business model was created by Alan Weinberger who forged the network out of a failing franchise of software retail stores owned by Ashton-Tate, a major software publisher. 40 independent software retailers decided to join together as a buying group and pay monthly fees to support their organization, in turn supporting each other and their programs for mutual benefit.

Today

Today, the organization s focus remains the same : providing solution providers with the tools necessary to survive and grow in the competitive technology market. These tools include : leveraged purchasing programs (both through major computer products distributors and direct with manufacturers), training, knowledge sharing amongst peers, discounts on business services (such as errors and omissions), business liability insurance, and an automated marketing service to increase exposure and sales opportunities for your company.

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