BCS Royal Charter - the Central Role of Professionalism.

The article focuses on the British Computer Society (BCS) receiving a royal charter on 31 July 1984, which was formally witnessed by the Queen on 21 September 1984. The charter recognized BCS's role in promoting computing science and technology for public benefit and emphasized the importance of professionalism within its membership. Prior to petitioning for the charter, BCS undertook extensive internal consultation, including a membership referendum, to address the implications for the society, its members, and the public. The society also carefully considered the definition of professionalism, membership criteria, and its name to ensure alignment with its mission and public expectations. The royal charter was seen as enhancing BCS’s authority to represent the computing profession nationally and to respond effectively to technological advancements.