RISHARD KHAN
Time and time again there are stories in the news about people being robbed while conducting business with someone they were connected with online.
However, Better Business TT (BBTT) is hoping to combat crimes like fraud and robbery by providing a free online directory of service providers that are verified and accredited.
This will be done through comprehensive and on-the-ground background checks by private firm Confidential and Internal Agency of Investigations (CIA Investigations) - owned by the directory's executive director, Inshan Salamut.
Speaking during the soft launch at Signature Hall, Chaguanas on Wednesday, Salamut said the aim is to connect customers with qualified professionals who would not prey on them, especially those most vulnerable - the elderly, disabled and women.
For instance, he said within one weekend, the directory received 19 applications from people offering babysitting services. However, investigations disqualified 13 of them because they had criminal records. He said the management team will monitor the service providers' performance and protect the repository's integrity.
"So what we going to ask of the public, if you do choose a service provider from BBTT, let us know so we can monitor and follow up with you to find out a lot of key things; how was the service? Was the service done on time? Was the service done within budget? How did the person interact with you? That way we will get first-hand, real-time reports of the individual who came to your home," he said.
Demonstrating the website's features, Salamut said customers will find a picture of the service provider, certificates showing their qualifications, media of previous work done and comments gathered during the background check, among other things. It will also be limited to those registered with the State.
"This comprehensive dissemination of information empowers consumers to make informed decisions based on transparency and accountability," he said.
The site will also provide, through the investigative firm, free mediation and legal assistance for financial disputes for customers and service providers.
While the directory focuses heavily on protecting customers, he said the team is also exploring additional measures to protect service providers.
The site will also feature articles that can teach people how to do things themselves and avoid their reliance on service providers.
The directory will also feature verified fraud alerts that can prevent people from falling victim to schemes and perpetrators.
Former head of the National Operations Centre and regional security expert, Gavin Heerah, endorsed the project and hoped it could be integrated by state authorities.
"I'm hoping the message BBTT is sending and its intention of expanding and using the service providers and the systems integration becomes a model toward national security in TT... we can see some sort of support," he said.
Speaking at the launch, economist Vaalmikki Arjoon commended the project saying it is mu
