The matrix Standard  is the core Accreditation for organisations that provide impartial IAG (information, advice and guidance). Owned by DfE, this quality mark assesses the outcomes of the service through a rigourous 3-yearly assessment cycle, and provides independent certification. For some in receipt of government funding for education, training and advice, it is mandatory. Others choose to use it to demonstrate their integrity and effectiveness in a commercial marketplace. Paul Hesp has been a registered matrix Practitioner since 2010 and is currently contracted by The Growth Company to deliver Assessments.

This is a groundbreaking Framework developed for ambitious management teams that take their businesses seriously. Assessed externally and independently against a set of defined Principles, organisations can use this tool to benchmark their performance and identify development goals, as well as obtaining independent certification. Customers can choose the breadth of their individual Assessments, according to the needs of the individual business.

Launched initially to put an end to exploitative practices in some areas of the government contracting sector, this Standard has gained momentum and, having been Refreshed in 2018, is now a comprehensive and very rigorous accreditation, demonstrating that an organisation is effictive and ethical in all aspects of supply chain management. The Merlin Standard supports Prime Contractors to develop and sustain excellent supply chains. Those who display this quality mark can be expected to be fair and diligent in their procurement, to use a rich range of diffrent sub-contractors, and to support and develop their sub-contractors. Paul Hesp is contracted by Assessment Services Ltd to lead Merlin Assessments.