Putting Certification to the Test

Take a look at this article from the August 2009 issue of Associations Now. It’s a worthwhile read.

It's one thing to say your certification is world-class. It's another to prove it. ASIS International put three of its certification programs through a years-long process of rigorous analysis and in-depth audits, and now they have an internationally recognized accreditation to show for it.

ASIS was confident that our certifications and training options were world class, but we wanted to raise the bar. We also wanted to further distinguish ourselves in an increasingly competitive, international, and varied marketplace while taking a proactive role in the development of strong standards for the security industry.

NOCA Seeking Advisory Panel Members for NOCA Certificate Accreditation Program

After an open discussion between stakeholders concerning ANSI/NOCA 1100, Assessment Based Certificate Programs and the development of NOCA accreditation program based on the Standard, NOCA is now seeking interested parties to participate on a NOCA Advisory Panel. The NOCA Advisory Board is responsible for developing policies and procedures for the accreditation program.

You do not need to be a NOCA member to participate.
NOCA is also taking applications for NOCA Main Committee voting members.
More information on ANSI/NOCA 1100 Standard can be found here.

Further information on the Advisory Panel and NOCA can be found at www.noca.org.

NCCA September Deadline Approaching

The next NCCA deadline, September 30, 2009, is quickly approaching. If you’ve ever applied for NCCA accreditation you know that the process can be overwhelming. At a minimum you need a love for detail to fill out the application form and organize all the materials. Simple mistakes can lead to a deferral or denial decision.

Some frequently overlooked details in NCCA applications:

• Read the full version of the Standards, available on the NOCA web site, the “Commentary” is not included on the NCCA application form but offers valuable information for applicants.

• The hard copy and electronic copy of your application should match. Signature pages are just as important in the electronic version. Make sure the signed version of ALL forms are in the PDF file and the hard copies.

• Make sure the required public member form and governing body form are completed (that means they are checked and signed).

• Double-check the list of “required exhibit documentation” at the beginning of the application to ensure that all needed documents are included or appropriately referenced in another document.

• Have someone audit the application by reviewing the narrative responses and referenced materials.

• If you reference something in the application that only exists on your Web site include a screen shot of the page. Make it easy for the accrediting body to find where you’re sending them.

• Those boxes on the form that say “provide explanation below to support compliance” should not be left blank. Use this space to explain or comment on how you meet the standard.

Take a look at the sample accreditation application available on the NCCA’s Web site and use it as a guide. Take the time to read the directions, proof your application, and double-check the forms to eliminate some basic and easily preventable problems. One simple way to address this issue is to find a staff member or consultant who did not prepare the application and ask them to review it. A fresh eye on the materials can often quickly identify small details that were overlooked or areas that need additional clarification.

Summary of Upcoming Industry Events – Mark your Calendars

August 15-18: ASAE Annual Meeting

• Conference for association professionals with education sessions by leading experts in association management, an expo hall chock-full of business service providers, and networking events where you can build valuable contacts.
• Visit www.asaecenter.org/AnnualMeeting for full conference details.
  

September 10-12: Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation Annual Conference

• A neutral forum to encourage and provide for the sharing of best practices, CLEAR serves and supports the international regulatory community and its vital contribution to public protection.
• Visit http://www.clearhq.org/2009_conference.htm for more information.
  

October 28-30: CAC Annual Meeting

• The Citizen Advocacy Center (CAC) has been serving the public interest by enhancing the effectiveness and accountability of health professional oversight bodies.
• The meeting will be co-hosted by the Florida Department of Health and its Division of Medical Quality Assurance, the Umbrella Agency for Florida’s health licensing boards.
• Visit http://www.cacenter.org/ for more information.
  

November 18-21: NOCA Annual Educational Conference

• This year’s conference Shine On: Exploring the Spectrum of Credentialing provides 28 focused concurrent sessions, poster sessions, special interest groups, two plenary sessions and five pre-conference workshops from which you can create your own customized educational experience. Speakers include industry veterans and new faces in our expanding community.
• Visit http://noca.org/ProfessionalDevelopment/AnnualEducationalConference/tabid/70/Default.aspx for more information.