If you’re reading this with a broken phone, you are not alone. One out of six Americans will break their smartphone this year. While no one likes to be without a working phone, there is no need to feel stressed or overwhelmed. Let us guide you on what to do and where to go!
When selecting a repair service provider, be sure to first check their website, reviews and business page. You want to be sure your repair store has an up-to-date website. There’s no excuse for a repair store to have a website that looks like it was built in 1998. Check the reviews and business page of the store. If many reviews mention poor quality parts, unsatisfactory wait times, or poor customer service you may want to move on to the next one.
Next, make sure your selected repair service provider has an actual repair store, and is not just a guy servicing phones in a parking lot. The guy in the parking lot may be cheap, but quality repairs require a safe and clean environment with a service desk for repair.
It’s always a good idea to check if the repair service provider has any certifications or credentials. As the repair eco-system evolves, so do the methods of weeding out ‘bad’ repair stores. Not only do device OEMs offer certification for best-in-class repair service providers, but there are also fully independent programs like WISE™ Certification who certify both technicians and repair stores that meet the standard for service excellence.
Ok, so now you’ve done your homework and you’ve found a quality repair service provider. Now, how do you know if the technician is qualified to repair your device?
Certifications, much like the ones your electrician or auto-mechanic may have, exist for device technicians too. Look for posted certificates on the wall of the repair store or ask your technician if he has any certifications. Those who have passed their certifications are proud of the accomplishment and have no problem talking to customers about it.
It’s also important that you feel like you can trust your technician. While under repair, mobile repair technicians can have full access to your device. This includes access to your messages, social media, banking apps and pictures. If you aren’t sure about the technician, vet the technician by asking him some questions. A good technician will be able to put your mind at ease. Quality repair service providers should never ask for your passcode or PIN information. To keep your data safe, let the technician know you’d prefer to be present if they have to unlock your device as a part of the repair process.
While this may seem like a lot of work for someone who just wants their phone fixed, WISE™ Certification has already vetted more than 2,000 Repair Shops and certified more than 17,500 Repair Technicians in the US, Canada and Ireland. The WISE Retail Directory can assist you in locating a qualified repair store near you.
Raising the bar for customer choice in device repair. Have questions? We are here to help.
Sign up for our WISE Certification announcements.
© CTIA Certification
If you are looking to obtain certification in your current field, seeking a new career, or looking at an entrepreneurial opportunity in device repair, WISE Certification provides the most comprehensive knowledge available in smartphone, tablet and Chromebook repair. Study materials are provided for Level 1 certification, it is self-guided and the test when you are ready, is taken online. For Level 2 certification, depending on your background and qualifications, we can provide you with the best guidance to obtain your Level 2 certification. This is a fast growing industry with exciting entry-level opportunities, learn more about WISE Certification today!
Download our ASC Policies & Procedures pdf here.
Step 1 Prerequisites for Authorization:
The ASC Program requires that the facility be ISO 9001 compliant, and their line managers be WISE Certified. Recyclers are also required to be R2v3 or compliant with e-Stewards.
Step 2 ASC Audit:
At your convenience, please reach out to programs@ctiacertification.org to coordinate with an approved and authorized auditor.
Before the day of the audit, you will need to provide the following:
WISE Authorized Service Centers (ASC) demonstrate a commitment to excellence that aligns with the standards set forth by the Policies and Procedures for WISE Authorized Service Centers. This document defines the facility requirements and processes to become a WISE ASC for the repair, refurbishment, and remanufacturing of wireless devices.
Device Repair Retailers, Kiosks, On-Demand Vehicles, and more who meet the requirements outlined in the Authorized Service Provider Certification Program Document.
To differentiate your business and demonstrate your commitment to quality.
Click the Learn More button below for guidance on certification.
The fee is $400 per location or vehicle. Each location and/or vehicle will renew annually for $400 USD.
The short answer – the wireless industry. WISE Certification is a collaborative effort across wireless carriers, device manufacturers, insurance companies, independent repair shops, and leaders in reverse logistics.
WISE stands for Wireless Industry Service Excellence. It is the industry recognized standard for retailers and technicians performing phone repair. As a WISE Certified service provider, we are committed to delivering a consistent and reliable repair experience.
The truth is repairing your phone is personal. You deserve a reliable and trusted professional to make sure your most valued asset is repaired with industry recognized standards. Our hope is that this WISE Certified Provider location gives you peace of mind as you hand over your phone for repair.
WISE Certification is proud to provide you with the highest quality of device repair service in the industry. Look for this sign on the repair store for the confidence you deserve with your most trusted possession. Thank you for trusting us with your phone today!
Smartphones continue to be the remote control to our lives keeping the world connected. When devices are not operating reliably, anxiety sets in quickly! When seeking repair services at a WISE Authorized Service Provider, consumers can be more confident their technician has met the requirements established by wireless industry subject matter experts. Consumers should rest assured data is handled with best practices, and basic safety protocols are followed. Certified repairs should be performed with the highest of quality industry recognized standards.
Chromebook Certification is recommended for technicians at retail, repair depots and on a school campus performing Chromebook repair services, IT professionals managing fleets of Chromebook for enterprise and educational institutions, and others engaged in repairs within a K-12 depot program. Anyone wanting to advance your skills, or add to your other WISE Certifications.
This comprehensive certification program aims to equip technicians with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the fast-evolving world of Chromebook technology.
To pursue designation as a “WISE Specialist Level 1 for Chromebooks,” enroll in the WISE Level 1 Knowledge Exam for Chromebook Repair.
Anyone wanting to grow their technical skillset in device repair.
WISE Level 2 certification is a great way to advance your career in the industry. You will be qualified to repair common device issues and restore device to working condition.
The WISE Level 2 Test Out allows experienced technicians to bypass the program’s hands-on testing requirements by assessing a technician’s practical skills and knowledge, providing an opportunity for experienced technicians to demonstrate their proficiency without undergoing the full Level 2 hands-on training. Level 2 Certification is only available to technicians who have successfully passed the WISE Level 1 Knowledge Exam.
To enroll, please visit our WISE Platform, select Course Catalog, and click the course titled WISE Level 2 Certification Test Out.
Anyone wanting to grow their skills in device repair. You’ll get all the basic knowledge of best practices and device safety protocols for smartphones and tablets.
This certification is a great first step into device repair, a bonus for customer-facing, non-technical staff in repair shops, and more!
Level 1 WISE Certified Technicians are considered qualified to perform diagnostics or repair common device issues without opening the device.
Certification is valid for 2 years upon technician certification anniversary date. Re-certification fee for WISE Level 1 is $200 USD.