@article{ref1,
title="Accreditation: certifying public works excellence",
journal="American city and county",
year="2000",
author="Sterling, B.",
volume="115",
number="11",
pages="6 p.-6 p.",
abstract="After more than 10 years of watching other public sector organizations undergo the process, the American Public Works Association (APWA) has developed their own accreditation program. The self-assessment phase can be treated simply as a checklist or as a major element in strategic planning. The second phase in gaining accreditation follows directly from the self-assessment. This improvement phase offers opportunities for the agency to form teams that will be involved in any decision-making. Improvements could include the development of new policies, procedures, and methods of operations, or the revision of old ones. The final phase involves an on-site evaluation by an outside group of APWA professionals, who review written records and policies; and interview staff, managers, elected officials, and community leaders. The evaluation groups also makes field observations. Initial accreditation is for a 3-year period, but annual updates are required to ensure continuing compliance. The organization's accreditation council is in the process of developing guidelines for reaccreditation.<p />",
language="",
issn="0149-337X",
doi="",
url="http://dx.doi.org/"
}