Accreditation Anxiety? This One Hack Fixes Everything?
Organizations often weigh the costs and benefits of attending an accreditation workshop when considering accreditation.
Does the workshop make a difference in the process? The data is compelling: attending an accreditation workshop can significantly reduce the process’s challenges and financial burdens. Here’s why it’s worth the investment.
1. It Doesn’t Slow You Down
It may appear that taking the time to register for and attend an accreditation workshop may slow the application process. Keep in mind that accuracy and efficiency matter just as much with your submission, so speed isn't necessarily a measure of success. Dedicating a day to study the Standard will help focus your efforts and protect valuable time.
2. Fewer Initial Findings, Fewer Hurdles
The most significant difference between organizations that attend a workshop and those that don’t is the number of initial findings after the first review. Accreditation applications are rigorously evaluated, and applicants receive feedback on areas that need improvement. On average, workshop attendees have fewer than 10 findings, while those who skip the workshop typically receive more than 20 findings. This increase in findings means that non-attendees are more likely to face additional revisions and delays, making their path to accreditation more complicated.
3. Avoid Costly Additional Reviews
For those who do not attend the workshop, the likelihood of requiring a third or subsequent review is significantly higher. Additional reviews come with added costs, naturally resulting in increased applicant frustration and anxiety. While it may initially appear more cost-effective, skipping the workshop might become a bigger sacrifice in the long run due to the extra review fees and time needed to resolve flagged items.
4. Investing in Success
Accreditation is an investment in quality and credibility. The workshop provides expert guidance, clarifies requirements, and helps organizations submit stronger applications. This reduces the likelihood of costly and time-consuming additional reviews, ensuring a smoother, more efficient accreditation journey.
The Bottom Line: Attending the accreditation workshop pays off. Not only does it help organizations submit stronger applications with fewer findings, but it also minimizes the risk of additional reviews and unexpected fees. If you're considering accreditation, attending the workshop is a wise choice that saves time, reduces stress, and optimizes your investment.
About the Author
Alexa Combs currently serves as IACET's Accreditation Specialist. With a passion for helping others learn and grow, she's enthusiastic about sharing all that IACET accreditation has to offer training organizations. Having earned two degrees, including a Master of Education from George Mason University, her experience in education began prior to her six years with IACET. Alexa lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and son.