A STOURPORT firm has been accepted into a body which aims to improve standards and education in the cloud computer industry.

OGL Computer, which has offices in Stourport and Kidderminster, was the first from Worcestershire accepted into the Cloud Industry Forum (CIF).

The Wyre Forest company provides IT services to more than 1,000 businesses using cloud technology to securely host its customers’ company data, files and applications at its data centres, which are guarded 24 hours a day and have Tier-IV security status, the highest status of data security available in the UK.

The firm, which employs around 230 staff, also provides IT hardware provision and installation, disaster recovery and data backup, business continuity and IT security and handles around one million emails every day for customers in its data centres.

Paul Colwell, technical director at OGL Computer, said: “Businesses today are increasingly aware of the potential benefits of cloud computing and what it can do for them but there still remains a certain amount of confusion about how to get the best out of the delivery model.

"Joining CIF confirms our commitment to demystifying the market, educating businesses users about safe cloud procurement and ultimately providing services to organisations in Worcestershire, and beyond, that will enable business growth and security.”

Alex Hilton, chief executive of CIF, added: “OGL’s reputation, considerable experience in the industry and commitment to industry best practices make them a very welcome addition to CIF.

"Our members are passionate about the principles of transparency to help customers to make informed decisions and directly influence the direction that the organisation takes.

"We are delighted that OGL has joined our ranks, and we look forward to their ongoing and valued participation.”

OGL Computer's history spans almost 40 years.