Exciting Enhancements to Our Vendor Accreditation Program

As we work towards our July launch of Vendor Accreditation, we are thrilled to highlight some significant improvements to our Vendor Accreditation Program, designed to bring consistent and reliable audits, greater value for users, and stronger program enforcement. These enhancements ensure data-driven, fair, and accurate accreditation, improved quality control by the Association, and enhanced transparency in all processes. Here’s a detailed look at the general and specific changes:

General Changes

• Consistent and Reliable Audits: We’ve standardized our audit processes to ensure consistency and reliability.

• Greater Value for Users: The program now offers more value through enhanced services and support.

• Stronger Program Enforcement: Stricter enforcement measures are in place to maintain high standards.

• Data-Driven Accreditation: Accreditation decisions are now based on robust data analysis, ensuring fairness and accuracy.

• Improved Quality Control: The Association has enhanced quality control measures across all aspects of the program.

• Enhanced Transparency: We’ve made all processes more transparent, fostering trust and accountability.

Specific Changes

Application Process

• Vendor-Initiated: Vendors now initiate the accreditation process by submitting themselves for review and providing comprehensive proof of compliance. No more Pre-Application!

• Self-Assessment: Vendors complete a Self-Assessment to evaluate their readiness, making the review process more efficient.

• Inclusive Fee: The application fee is now included in the application, simplifying the process and eliminating extra invoicing.

• Clear Definitions: application intake, process, and timelines are now better defined.

• Resource Documents: We’ve improved resource documents, including a robust and well-defined accreditation manual.

• Quality Control: Integrated quality control requirements enhance overall program quality.

Requirement Changes

• Design: Design services have been added as a new accredited service.

• Installation: Reviews now cover five installations or major modifications, focusing on acceptance inspections across the Pre-Installation, Installation, and Post-Installation phases.

• Inspection: Five inspection reports are reviewed to ensure consistency, and an ACCT Level 2 Professional Inspector is now required.

• Training: Training dates must be submitted with the application, allowing the audit team to plan in advance and ensure alignment with Chapter 2 standards.

• Practitioner Certification: Maintains existing standards with clearer testing observation outlines.

• Site Audits: More structured with a defined schedule and clear Pass/Fail criteria, requiring a score of 79 or lower to pass.

Reaccreditation

• Streamlined Process: The reaccreditation process is now more structured and faster, ensuring continuity and efficiency.

Disciplinary Procedures

• Defined Structure: A clear disciplinary structure ensures consistency and transparency in handling issues.

Program Oversight

• Procedures Manual: A comprehensive manual now outlines the entire program.

• Administrative Oversight: Increased oversight ensures the integrity of the program.

Confidentiality

• Documented Process: Enhanced documentation of confidentiality processes and measures ensures data protection.

Document Handling

• Clear Instructions: Improved instructions on document sharing and handling by ACCT enhance security and clarity.

These changes mark a significant step forward in our commitment to providing a rigorous, transparent, and fair accreditation program. We believe these enhancements will benefit all stakeholders and uphold the highest standards in our industry.