Founded in 1984, ASCII is the oldest and largest group of independent information technology (IT) solution providers, integrators and value added resellers (VARs) in the world.

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 of the time. The 40 independent software retailers decided to join together as a buying group and pay monthly fees to support their organization and in turn support each other and their programs for mutual benefit.

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, education and training, knowledge sharing amongst peers, sizeable discounts on business services such as errors and omissions/business liability insurance, and a worldwide locator which allows customers to find a local independent solution provider.

With over 70 volume purchase agreements available, ASCII is as attractive to solution providers doing over $100 million a year in sales as it is to smaller solution providers selling $1 to $3 million a year.