Certification process
The process leading to a certification is voluntary. The role of the Certification Body is to assess and check whether the product, process, service or management system submitted for certification meets the requirements of the Certification Scheme. From a high level view, a certification process usually goes through the following steps:
Application
The process starts by the application of the client and review of it by the Certification Body
Scope Definition
A meeting is organized with the Client to assess and agree on the scope of certification.
Offer & Agreement
An offer is made to the Client to be agreed by him.
Audit
If the offer is accepted, a detailed analysis and audit is performed.
Review Report
The Auditor prepare their report and submit it to expert reviewers.
Certification
If the complience is demonstrated and accepted by the reviewers, a public certification is delivered.
Renewal Procedure
Before the expiration of the certification, the Client will be invited to renew its certification with simplified procedure.
Upon receipt of an application, the Certification Body will review it in order to assess its acceptability and to prepare an offer if applicable. The project manager may request further clarification or documentation. The application form serves as a basis to prepare an offer, including its price estimate. Upon accepting the offer, a qualified auditors and/or assessors are assigned for the certification process, in accordance with the corresponding Certification Scheme. According to the object to be certified, the certification process may require documentation review and onsite audits. The Lead auditor/assessor synthesizes the findings into a report that will be reviewed by a Reviewer before the Certification Body makes a formal decision.